I’ll be biased… since it’s my blog… Delaplane Cellars is in the top five of my favorite wineries in Virginia. You remember the old days when you had to go to the record store and buy your music. You had a favorite band and you loved most of their songs, but there were always a few tracks that didn’t live up to the band’s potential, you thought. That’s how I feel about many wineries in Virginia, but not Delaplane. They have an award winning lineup from whites to rose to reds.
One of the brightest stars in Delaplane’s cellar is their 2012 Springlot. Now, this Cabernet Franc-dominated blend has been around a few years, and it has always shown great character, but 2012 is the exception. The 2012 vintage was released this winter, and the owners, Jim and Betsy Dolphin, write that they believe it is “the softest and smoothest Springlot we’ve ever made.” I agree. With a wonderful, enticing nose, its smooth tannins and medium body glides around the palate like silk with loads of dark cherries, a bit of black currant, and some black berries, which rounds out the soft but luxurious frame. It posses a New World, yet mature, character that I believe could be enjoyed by both Old and New World fans alike.
With a blend of 48% Cabernet Franc, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, and 8% Petit Verdot, it “was blended just before bottling,” and aged for 15 months in 1/3 new French oak. If you’ve not yet tasted the 2012 Springlot, I suggest you don’t hesitate. Delaplane Cellars is a boutique winery, and they are accomplished at selling their wines quickly once released. Drink now with roasted chicken or rack of lamb.
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