Philip Carter Winery 2011 Corotoman

My last blog entry discussing Philip Carter Winery’s Cabernet Franc was less than flattering and, of course, my opinion. But the great news is that I have the pleasure to share with you one of their best, if not THE best, wine they produce: the 2011 Corotoman, a meritage (Bordeaux varietal) blend, popular in Virginia.

Unfortunately, the back label on the wine, while presenting an interesting historical overview of the history of the Virginia man that now lines the bottom of the front label, does not name the varietals used in the blend, nor the percentages. Moreover, their website doesn’t either, which is not surprising, since the varietals and percentages change through the vintages. If you were to go for a tasting at the winery itself, the staff would probably give you the breakdown.

Regardless of the blend, this is without a doubt there best red wine. This full-bodied wine brings to mind an Old World feel with well-structured, smooth tannins ready to take on steaks, or any grilled varieties of lamb, bison, or venison. It has a good nose full of dark fruit and coffee, with the same on the palate. I would not go so far as to say this wine belongs in your cellar for 20 years, but it could stand to age for about five years for added complexity.

I think this wine more than any defines careful, quality Philip Carter production… At least for red wine, meanwhile their Chardonnay is easily their best white, but that’s another blog entry. If you happen to be tasting near Hume, Virginia, make sure to stop by Philip Carter Winery and taste their Corotoman. And while you’re at it, take their wine tour. You won’t be disappointed.

Springlot for Spring

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.