Here’s a trio of bottles form Huff Estates. It’s fascinating how wineries that have specific sites at their disposal can make magic wines that are in-duplicatable. The South Bay vineyard from Huff is one of those locations. The Chardonnay is always a slam dunk – but I don’t know why I’m still surprised at the elegance, and ripeness that ends up in the bottle of the South Bay Merlot. Here are a few bottles you should ponder with the holidays coming up.
2017 South Bay Vineyards Chardonnay – $30.00 – **** – After spending 14 months in French Oak (15% New) the aromas offer honey layered over peach and pear. Fantastically elegant – but this somehow walks a tightrope of being both intense and restrained at the same time. There are whispers of spice and vanilla that poke through on the finish. Simply put another very tasty Chardonnay from Prince Edward County.
2017 South Bay Vineyards Merlot – $30.00 – ****+ – This is the lighter side of Merlot – thanks to zippy acid from Prince Edward County you’ve got yourself one of the most food friendly bottles around. The aromas are ripe red cherry, and hints of violets. On the palate this delivers what you find on the nose, mated with vanilla. If you’re expecting Bordeaux you may be disappointed as this definitely feels like a “Pinot-esque” interpretation of the grape. But if you love great wine, especially if you’re a fan of the County – this is definitely worth picking up.
2017 South Bay Vineyards Cabernet Franc – $35.00 – ****+ – This is the first time I’ve had the opportunity to taste the Cabernet Franc from the South Bay Vineyard. A light version of Franc, but don’t expect any green notes in this bottle. Blackberry, cherry, and raspberry on the nose and on the palate. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for Huff with cab franc and merlot both producing great fruit.
