Hunt Country Red

Disclaimer: I received this wine as a sample from the winery.

Many people have asked me what the significance of the words Hunt Country plays in Millbrook Vineyards & Winery Hunt Country Red.  Millbrook, New York is known as "Hunt Country".  The Millbrook Hunt was founded in the 1890's and is one of the premier equestrian organizations in North America.   The Millbrook area is home to numerous thoroughbred horse farms that train and /or participate in these sporting fox hunts that take place throughout Millbrook. Thus, Millbrook has become known as "Hunt Country" hence the label and name for the wine Hunt Country Red.

This 2009 vintage is a blend of 58% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Franc, 8% Zinfandel and 8% Cabernet Sauvignon. It was harvested at 21.6 brix, went through 100% malolactic fermentation and was aged in oak for nine months.  It was bottled in September of 2010 and there were 1250 cases made.

Aromas of dark fruit, cassis and vanilla fill the nose. The palate opens to flavors of black raspberry, dark fruit, hints of oak and soft tannins. There are nuances of clove and spice blended with strawberry on the finish.

The wine sells for $15.50.