eklektos

My Tasting Experience

Let me start out with the day’s bad experiences to get the negativity out of the way... The first winery we tasted was Tomahawk. I can safely say that I was unimpressed across the board. So unimpressive that I didn’t take a brochure so I cannot recall the exact wines I tasted. I do remember inquiring as to the alcohol content of their Pinot Noir because it about knocked my socks off. Maybe it was mixed in with some of their Earl of Chatham Mead, or maybe it was just a bad day. The only other negative happening on the day was an incredibly rude person working at the Valhalla booth. Ok, its all positive from here, I promise!

Horton Cellars was the next stop. I would recommend you try their Rkatsiteli. Its an interesting wine made from vines typically found in the Georgia providence and in Russia. I was not overly impressed by the other wines but their Peach fruit wine hit the spot on this hot and humid day.

There is a young winery from North Carolina called Shelton Vineyards that we tasted towards the end. I was impressed with their Riesling and bought a few bottles hoping in my mind that my senses were still intact. I had some just the other day and would still recommend if it’s in your area. I wouldn’t special order it (especially considering its only $8 when you buy a case).

The winery that I was most impressed by was AmRhein. I had never tasted any of their wines before which is odd considering they have distribution in my area. Of particular note (to me) were their Chambourcin, Late Harvest Vidal Blanc and Saffire. Saffire is a blend of Chardonnay and VidaI Blanc (and other whites). I bought a few bottles and would recommend it to anyone. If you like Dessert wines I would recommend you try the Late Harvest. As with all ice wines they are expensive. I bought a bottle but would suggest you try it before doing so. The Chambourcin was a bit more unusual (to me) as it had a bit of a tarty yet oaky flavor.

That about sums up the day. This isn’t a comprehensive review as I lost my notes on Rockbridge and Peaks of Otter and having had so much in the past, I didn’t bother to taste from Chateau Morrissette. I didn’t recall Biltmore Estates Winery being at the festival but maybe I just missed it. I highly recommend the Wine Down the Music Trail next year to anyone that likes folk rock and/or wine. It its any testament to the success, the event ran out of the commemorative glasses on the second day.

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Since Chateau Morrisette didn’t get a review I will quickly mention the Chateau Morrisette Restaurant. Jenny and I went to dinner to celebrate our 7th anniversary (of meeting, not marriage) and I must say everything was absolutely perfect. Romantic atmosphere, impeccable service, and of coarse exquisite food. As with all restaurant reviews this is based on one visit, but if you are in the New River Valley and are looking for some great food I would suggest you call and make a reservation (540) 593-2865 (or online).