I’m getting ahead of myself, I’ll give you the highlights of 2020 next time. One of the good things that happened; I started working at a local vineyard. It’s only part time but it’s fun and I’m back in the wine industry.
Here’s a review of two local wines and what cigars paired well with them. And 2021 starts Deck Therapy Session with the Fat Man.
D.T.S. 1
Zweigelt – North Mountain Vineyard & Winery
An Austrian hybrid grape, which is crossed between a St. Laurent & Blaufänkiach grown in the Shenandoah Valley at North Mountain Vineyard & Winery. North Mountain, known for their Chambourcin, Chardonnay and Grunier Vetliner, are the first to grow Zweigelt in the state of Virginia. Along with their red single varietal, they also use the Zweigelt to produce a dry Rosé.
Deep, bold ruby/garnet in color, with medium to low acids. Dark stone fruit with hints of leather and a bit of earthy undertones on the nose.
Soft mouth feel, bright, balanced, concentrated fruit with a slight touch of Jam and a hint of white pepper on the finish.
It would pair well with pasta, pizza, and a good steak.
This wine shouldn’t be reserved for the colder months – it should be enjoyed year round.
Definitely a cigar wine! And speaking of that. As much as I prefer a Maduro or a Connecticut broadleaf wrapper stogie, I found the perfect stick to compliment this vino:
Hoyo de Monterrey Icon
Shape: Robusto
Origin: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Corojo
Filler: Dominican
Binder: Dominican
Medium bodied, cedar notes, acidity is subtle and a bit creamy. Draw near perfect with soft leather and mild spices. The burn time is about 35 minutes, perfect for your mid-afternoon deck therapy session. Added bonus, a one light stick. Shortie likes that!
D.T.S. 2
2017 Vin Rouge – Glen Manor Vineyards
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot & Petit Verdot
Deep dark burgundy in color, medium acids.
Earthy, leather & cigar smoke on the nose.
Black cherry and currants with soft tannins on the finish.
A true afternoon sipper for deck therapy.
It would pair well with a burger and pasta.
I choose the Caldwell Blind Man’s Bluff to enjoy with this Bordeaux Blend.
Shape: Robusto
Origin: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Maduro, Pennsylvania Broadleaf
Filler: Dominican
Binder: Sumatra
Smooth is the key word here. Soft mouth feel with earthy notes that linger. The draw is near perfect with little spice and low acids. This was a 2 light cigar which isn’t a bad thing. Both Cigar and wine were low in acids and complemented each other.
This would be a great cigar for a newcomer to the stogie world. I would also pair this stick with the Willet Pot Still Reserve, Kentucky Bourbon. The mildness of the cigar and the baking spices of this brown water goodness are a perfect combination.
Both deck therapy sessions were a success and much more to come in 2021.
I’ll try to get some friends to join me for these sessions throughout the year.
Y’all be safe ya hear, keep those masks on, social distance when you can and wash those damn hands.
Slainté Mhath Kids!
crazynvirginia 