I recently poured a local wine that left me completely speechless and with a big smile on my face. The wine, a 2007 Vineyard Reserve Chardonnay from Sharpe Hill Vineyards, is easily the best kept secret on the east coast. Featured in the April ’09 issue of Wine Spectator, the Chardonnay won the magazines “Final Four Taste Off” against another highly regarded winery, Chaddsford Winery in Pennsylvania. Located in Pomfret, Connecticut, Sharpe Hill also produces the popular Ballet of Angels (read my earlier review), the best selling wine made in New England. Needless to say, Sharpe Hill offers an award-winning portfolio of wines for every wine lover.
The Chardonnay is a 100% estate grown blend of Chardonnay and Melonde Bourgogne. On the nose, equal parts of citrus and apple aromas give way to a hint of vanilla and oak. Burgundian in style bringing balanced fruit and minerals to the palate, the wine is crisp and clean with a beautiful finish (I must admit, I may have poured a little more in my glass). The Spectator scored the Chardonnay a solid 88, but is an easy 90 plus wine on my palate. A superb wine that is a steal at $16.99.
I urge my readers to experience Sharpe Hill Vineyards for themselves, whether in person, or online. And be sure to tell them TheOther46.com sent you. Cheers!
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Connecticut…would that be sort of the NY “Hudson River Valley” AVA?
I’ll have to check. If memory serves me correct, I believe Connecticut has two AVA’s, Southeastern New England and Western Connecticut Highlands. But I’m not convinced Sharpe Hill falls in either. I’ll let you know.