89 2002 Horton Tannat Orange County (VA) 10/4/11 ($20)
13.5% alc
Color: Deep black cherry. (3.0) Bouquet: Mocha, cedar, smoke and tart blackberries. (3.0) Body: Excellent acidity and very good fruit with some tannin. A solid middleweight that's tart and lively in the mouth. (3.0) Flavor: Parallels bouquet, but not as rich. Tart blackberries are delicious in a red Loire style. Very smooth and tasty. (3.0) Finish: Could be longer and not as expressive as the flavor. Still quite elegant. (2.5)
Overall: A very tasty paradox. It's made from Tannat, a notoriously tannic grape and, true to form, it did take 9 years to reach its peak, even when grown in VA. On the other hand, it is now elegant and easy to drink by itself or with food. Shows tart blackberry fruit with a mocha infusion. Excellent value. (14.5)