Cellar Tastings and Why They're Worth It...

This past weekend the hubby and I went to Linden Vineyards (yet again) and decided to mix it up by not only doing a tasting at the bar, but also signing up for a cellar tasting. If you've never done a cellar tasting before, I highly recommend it. You'll get to taste wines that typically aren't on the traditional tasting menu (even wines that are no longer for sale), hear in-depth information about the wine and winery, and learn about the wine making method on a more intimate level.

At Linden, as with most vineyards, you have to sign up for the cellar tasting in advance. So I highly recommend seeing what slots are open right when you walk in. Once it was time for our tasting, we walked down to "the Cave," as Linden lovingly refers to it. Thru the door we could see a wonderfully romantic set-up. It was a small room, with stacks and stacks of oak barrels. The scent of the barrels permeated the room. On the top of the barrels were tea lights (which added to the ambiance of the whole thing). So there, in candle light, we approached a small table set for four tastings. Some vineyards do slightly larger groups for their cellar tastings, but Linden definitely keeps theirs intimate. On the table (aside from the glasses and menu) were three glass jars filled with rocks from each of the vineyards they use grapes from; Bouiseau, Hardscrabble, and Avenius.

We were greeted by none other than Shari Avenius herself who gave us a rundown of the different vineyard locations used to make Linden wine and explained the terrain and the different types of rocks found in each location. Yes, the type of rocks found in a vineyard do make a difference ;). From there we tasted the first round of wines and did a comparison of the 2006 Avenius Chard vs. 2006 Hardscrabble Chard, then the 2005 Bousieau Red (which is no longer available to the public, so it was a real treat to taste) vs. the 2006 Bousieau Red, then moved on to the sweeter Vidal Reisling vs. Late Harvest Vidal. As usual all of their wines are amazing, but for me, the standouts were the Hardscrabble Chard and the 05 Bousieau. The Avenius Chard had a subtle, floral/grassy nose and the taste was smooth with an almost creaminess to it. It's hard to find a chardoney that can be both buttery and bright, and this one definitely was. The 05 Bousieau was a bold red, with a smokey nose and a fruity/chocolaty taste.

We had a blast at the tasting and even chatted it up with a local who also dabbled in grape growing. I'd like to think we learned a lot, and will probably check out other vineyards cellar tastings next time we get the chance. It was a truly unique experience.

Linden Vineyards

I can't think of a better vineyard to start with than Linden. The vineyard and property completely charmed me the first time I entered it (not to mention their wine). I've been to Linden over 50xs and their wine never seems to disappoint. They're an hour away from DC off of exit 13 on 66. The drive up is very scenic.

Once you've made it to the vineyard you'll notice that the location is gorgeous with views of farmland and mountains. The architecture is rustic, but contemporary with wood beams across the ceiling and modern art on the walls. There are tastings in the front room and they have cellar tastings for $12 every 45 minutes. They have an indoor seating area with a wood burning stove to warm you up in the winter, plus they have outdoor seating on the deck and picnic tables on the main lawn. You can order cheese, baguettes, smoked salmon etc. However you have to be a case club member (purchase a case a year) in order to take advantage of the seating/picnic areas. To be honest Linden wines are excellent, so it's well worth the case. If you can't do the case, at least enjoy a tasting. The wine is fantastic and the people are very knowledgeable and friendly.

WINE REVIEWS FOR LINDEN VINEYARDS

Seyval 2007

Nose: Grapefruit, apples, lemon, hint of honey
Taste: Bright, refreshing, crisp, grapefruit, citrus

This wine literally dances on your tongue... almost effervescent. It's incredibly bright and crisp. Perfect poolside wine for those of us who don't like sweet wine and want something light and refreshing.

Claret 2004

Nose: Spicy, fruity, black cherries, black currents, hint of spice
Taste: Woody, fruity, very smooth, but heavy in flavor. Black cherries, mild tannins, subtle spice flavor

The wine is a rich, dark red and completely unfiltered. The nose is extremely pleasant, lots of black cherries and currents. The flavor is robust, but smooth... lots of cherries, but a slight spiciness to it. It's full-bodied with a lasting finish.

Hardscrabble Red 2005

Nose: Barnyard, fruity, grassy, earthy, plum, currants
Taste: Flinty, fruity, black cherries, earth, plum, smooth finish

Mild tannins with a slight bite. Has a mild earthy flavor and nose that compliments the heavy plum undertones.