theCompass
 Home   Map   Blog Roll   WineCompass   Wine 101   My Compass 

Smith-Berry Norton

Smith-Berry Norton Reserve Wine Details
Price:

Description: This Norton, aged in American Oak, has a beautiful cherry color, with aromas of raspberry, cherry, and licorice. On the palate, you find flavors of black cherry fruit, oak, black pepper, flowers, raisins, and a hint of chocolate. Bright acidity contributes liveliness and the long finish rounds out this gem of a Norton. Excellent accompaniment to grilled quail or roasted pork loin.

Varietal Definition
Norton:
In 1835, Dr. Daniel Norton of Virginia developed this grape varietal that was originally known as the Virginia Seedling. Widely planted in the Midwest (where it is sometimes called Cynthiana), it has become a source of interest to East Coast vintners in recent years. It produces a dark, inky wine with flavors of plums and cherries. Horton Vineyards in Virginia is particularly interested in reviving the grape's reputation. In the South, look for Norton (or Cynthiana) from Moonrise Bay, Mountain Valley, Three Sisters, Tiger Mountain and Tennessee Valley.
Cabernet Sauvignon:
Cabernet Sauvignon is the most widely planted and significant among the five dominant varieties in France’s Bordeaux region, as well as the most successful red wine produced in California. Though it was thought to be an ancient variety, recent genetic studies at U.C. Davis have determined that Cabernet Sauvignon is actually the hybrid offspring of Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc. Cabernet Sauvignon berries are small with black, thick and very tough skin. This toughness makes the grapes fairly resistant to disease and spoilage and able to withstand some autumn rains with little or no damage. It is a mid to late season ripener. These growth characteristics, along with its flavor appeal have made Cabernet Sauvignon one of the most popular red wine varieties worldwide.


Reviews




Back to Smith-Berry Winery information