Spring has sprung in New Jersey. For me, that means visiting our wineries, enjoying the new vintages available, and live music on weekends. All of this and more can be enjoyed (socially distanced, of course). My wife and I got a jump start to the season. Last week I discussed our seasonal wine allotment from William Heritage and Hawk Haven. What I saved for today was the second stop we made last Saturday-Turdo Vineyards, in Cape May. We got to do a real tasting-No plastic glasses or flights. While we visit here often, there were a couple of new vintages I was anxious to try. I was excited to try my first 2020 vintage anywhere (three of their white wines) and a couple of 2019 reds. They did not disappoint.
White Wines
- 2020 DiLuca Riesling – A dry, refreshing citrusy version, with notes of lime.
- 2020 DiLuca Albarino – Subtle floral notes and a hint of peach flavor in this lively, crisp wine.
- 2020 Turis Savignon Blanc – A very good version with a rich mouthfeel, notes of lemongrass and a touch of grapefruit (not the “in your face” grapefruit that can sometimes overwhelm you) and make it difficult to pair with food).
Red Wines
The reds were very recently bottled and while all were excellent, they will doubtless continue to improve with a little cellaring.
- 2019 Turis Persara (“Bordeaux”) – Made with a bit more Cabernet than in the past. Good now, but should continue to improve in the cellar.
- 2019 DiLuca Rosso (Black Label”) – An excellent red blend of Tempranillo (80%) and Syrah (20%). Very recently bottled, but still silky smooth; rich, medium-bodied with a pinch of spice. Perhaps my favorite vintage of this blend to date.
- 2018 DiLuca Rosso (“Super Tuscan”) – A marvelous red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (50%); Sangiovese (25%); and Merlot (25%). Ripe black cherry notes, lively acidity, silky smooth tannins and a lingering finish. Another of my favorites that just gets better every year.
Ultra Premium Wines
These two wines are perennial favorites in our house. It’s hard to find a wine produced at this price point that I have enjoyed more than these.
- Turis Etichetta D’Oro 2014 Nebbiolo – Their “Barolo” is amazingly smooth for a Nebbiolo. I have not had a Nebbiolo or Barolo that I have enjoyed more than this gem.
- Turis Etichetta D’Oro 2016 Sangiovese- Their “Brunello,” adheres to all Italian wine laws in production. An exquisite example of Sangiovese grapes and what a master can do with them.
One closing thought about Turdo Vineyards. Besides the great wine and warm family atmosphere, we were lucky to have Luca guide our tasting and to have a brief chat with his dad, Sal. Who better to describe their wines than the winemakers, whose insight is invaluable. This is a unique and very special winery.
Cheers!
New Jersey Uncorked: A Snob-Free Taste of NJ Wine
If your Easter Bunny doesn’t bring you a copy, you can still download my ebook at the Apple’s iBook app!
Coming Attractions
- A visit to Angelico Vineyards in Lambertville (my first visit to this NJ winery).
- Live Music & NJ Wine
- More Comfort Food & NJ Wine
- More about trying lesser known grape varietals and my personal search on this journey.
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