Hawk Haven barrel tasting is a unique experience. Located in Rio Grande, I have written about them several times over the past few years. This time it was all about the barrel tasting. It was last weekend, for members only. What makes it unique? First, it was one of the best organized, despite moving to three different stations. Second, we got to taste 10 of the best wines before bottling that I have had in some time. Finally, we were treated to a delicious assortment of charcuterie at the end of our tasting.
A Sparkling Start…
Our first stop was in a tented and heated area, just off the Crush Pad. We were offered a Malbec/Syrah Pet Nat and crostini with salmon to enjoy with this beautiful and refreshing sparkler. We got our menu of wines to be enjoyed at each stop and pricing for ordering the wines.
Stop #2 (Dry Whites and Reds in the Barrel Room)
Barrel Tasting of Dry Whites
- 2019 Signature Series Dry Pinot Grigio-A little more body than usual, with great acidity and balance.
- 2019 Signature Series Viognier-Medium bodied; smooth, rich mouthfeel
- 2019 Signature Series Gewürztraminer-The Best Gewurtztraminer I’ve tasted; lemon and ginger notes.
- 2019 Signature Series Pinot Noir Rose-Bone dry with strawberry notes, mild tannins and beautiful color.
Barrel Tasting of Dry Reds
- 2018 Signature Series Syrah-Co-fermented with their Viognier; limited to one barrel
- 2018 Quill-Wonderful blend of Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon and Cab Franc with black cherry notes
- 2018 Signature Series Cabernet Franc-Still one of the best Cab Francs around; pepper & spice notes.
- 2018 Signature Series Malbec-A super version of this estate-grown grape (not commonly grown in NJ)
Stop #3 (White Port, Chocolate , Charcuterie, and Purchases)
- 2010 White Port-The best White Port-Style wine I have ever had (18% ABV)-A great Port-style wine with notes of vanilla and honey and not cloyingly sweet. Paired wonderfully with the chocolate we were offered!
A huge bonus for attending this event was the special pricing of these wine “futures.” We received 35% off with a purchase of 12 or more bottles with our Gold Membership. We took advantage of these prices and purchased enough (actually more than enough) to qualify for our Gold Member status for 2020!
If you are not a member, you should think about becoming one. In addition to invitations (free) to barrel tastings, you can get up to 30% off 12 or more bottles (in March). You can also do free tastings when you visit and you can get two free tickets to all of their fabulous Rootstock concerts.
The Hawk Haven barrel tasting was a huge success. My thanks to the owners, Todd Wuerker (winemaker) and his wife, Kenna. Kudos to all of the helpful and well-informed staff.
Cheers!
Still thinking about getting my handbook on New Jersey wine: New Jersey Uncorked?
You’re in luck. I just extended the $2 off sale on the e-book at Apple’s iBook app. You must use the code: March20. $10.99 is the lowest price you will find on this e-book.
Coming Attractions
- Grindstone Restaurant & NJ Wine
- Shana’s Wild Fig & NJ Wine
- Unionville Vineyards Winter 2020
- What’s On Tap at Bellview?
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