We ended things last time with our visit to Delfosse, however, we mentioned a plan to also visit White Hall Vineyards. And indeed we did. It had been a year since our last visit to White Hall, and we raved about the 2005 Petit Verdot and 2005 Touriga. So what did we discover this time around? Let’s find out!
On this particular day, White Hall offered a vertical tasting of Chardonnays, and these included the 2004, 2005, and 2006 vintages. The tasting sheet was entitled, “Weather Changes Everything”, and indeed it does. The chance to compare Chardonnays over the years was irresistible, and we opted for the vertical tasting, Of course, we began with the earliest available vintage, the 2004 Chardonnay. A rainier 2004 increased the size of the fruit clusters and this led to an earlier ripening of the Chardonnay grapes. The result was a lighter wine with lots of apple flavors. Not a bad pour at all, but the 2004 may not be for those who prefer a fuller-bodied Chardonnay. The 2005 and 2006 Chardonnays were quite similar as both were harvested after a dry, hot summer. The grapes were therefore able to hang on the vine for a longer period of time. Both vintages proved to be crisper with lengthier finishes. Pear and apple prevailed with subtle hints of toasted nuts that suggested some oak tre atment. The obvious difference between the 2005 and 2006 vintages was age—the 2005 had been in the bottle for over a year; the 2006, for two weeks. Both were classic, elegant Chardonnays.
We were also able to sample the Reserve Chardonnays for 2004, 2005, and 2006. These were obviously oaked and fuller-bodied with the creamy, buttery texture associated with a bolder Chardonnay. Warren’s personal favorite was the Chardonnay Reserve, 2005; however, Paul wisely held his gold star for the end of the vertical tasting. He is usually more partial to the stainless steel Chardonnays, and his own favorite was the 2005 Steel Chardonnay. Lemony flavors shined brightly here with a crisp finish. Perfect for sipping while watching a long summer sunset on the deck!
Reds were also tasted, and those who like red wines even in the heat of summer may like the Breakheart Red 2005. Easy to sip or to enjoy with barbeque, we noted Breakheart Red’s bright red fruit characteristics. The deal of the day had to be the Vin Gris 2006. At $10/bottle, this dry rose cannot be beat. In fact, we grabbed a bottle to take home!
Our vertical tasting confirmed what we already knew—weather does indeed influence what happens in the vineyard, and skilled winemakers know how to produce quality wine even when weather conditions are not optimal. Such was the case at White Hall. Our tasting associate was very informative, and we found out that 85% of grapes used at White Hall Vineyards are grown on the estate. This includes 37 acres of planted vines which encompass 16 varietals. The other 15% are purchased from the renowned Mt Juliet Vineyards.
We wound up our tasting and made our purchases just as White Hall was beginning to close up for the day.
We know that we will return to White Hall Vineyards in the future; in the meantime, pay White Hall Vineyards a visit, and mention that Virginia Wine Time sent you!