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Wine Details
Price:
$39.95 per bottle
Description:
50% Merlot, 22% Petit Verdot, 18% Tannant, 10% Malbec. [Vintage 2001 -- Wine Spectator: 85 points] Vintage 2002. The Estate Reserve represents the heart and soul of Jefferson Vineyards and is produced only in the best vintages ('97, '98, '01 & '02) and only from fruit grown on our property. It is truly the best of what we do and consistently ranks among the finest wines produced in Virginia. The Petit Verdot and the Tannant give the backbone and structure, while the Merlot and Malbec add dark fruits the balance and flavor. The flavors of the grapes were enhanced by fourteen months of aging in French and American oak. It is a wine noted for its complexity and long finish, with flavors of cassis, blueberry, bacon, toast and chocolates. Pairs well with heavy red meats and can be enjoy over the next five to seven years. 195 cases.
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Varietal Definition
Malbec:
Originating from the Bordeaux region of France, this grape is among the "big six" for red wine grapes. Malbec is typically a medium to full-bodied red wine. Ripe fruit flavors of plums and blackberry give it a jammy characteristic. The tannins are typically a bit tight and the earthy, wood-like appeal makes for a fairly rustic wine. Malbec goes well with roast meats such as chicken or turkey. It should be served at 58F and can be aged for up to 5 years typically.
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Merlot:
Merlot is known as a Noble Bordeaux varietal. Although it came to France in the first century, it was not named until the 1880s. Merlot was originally used only for blending, as it is soft and compliant, very useful in softening other Bordeaux wines like Cabernets. Recently in California and Chile it became popular as a 100% varietal wine. Merlot tends to be easier to grow in a variety of soil conditions and is harvested earlier in the year than Cabernet. Although most Merlots are made to be drunk earlier, there are many with complexities of a Cabernet. Flavors of plum, black cherry, violet, chocolate and orange pair well with rich, red pasta dishes, hearty chicken dishes, and any beef combination that you fancy. The perfect match of course is chocolate. Not only does the chocolate compliment the wine and vice-versa, but the essence of both flavors linger eternally.
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Petit Verdot:
Petite Verdot is one of the five noble Bordeaux varietals, essentially acting as the nuts and bolts in most Bordeaux blends. With intense color and racy flavors, this wine possesses elements of pencil shavings, dark fruit presentation and a subtle complexity, which can be appreciated by even the most discerning palate.
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