Varietal: 50% Cabernet Franc; 50% Merlot
Region: Virginia – USA
Cost: $14
Bright violet color with aromas of fresh red fruit with sweet tannins and a hint of oak. Â Pairs well with pizza, grilled meat, roasted chicken, pasta, or by itself.
Recommendations: It’s Virginia Wine Month, and I would be remiss if I didn’t review at least one wine from my state, though let’s be honest, there will be others. Â I had never been to Pollak Vineyards before my trip with my wife back in March, and I was very impressed by their tasting room, a fairly new building with a lovely patio for enjoying a glass (or bottle) of wine on.
The 2008 Durant Red had been a stand out for us when we visited, taking what we liked from the Cabernet Franc and the Merlot and blending them nicely into a single wine. Â The pepper notes of the Franc tempered by the smooth fruit flavors of the Merlot. Â The flavors are bright and, with the flavors of fruit and berry popping in your both.
The finish is smooth, the peppery finish that I’m used to from a Virginia Cabernet Franc tempered by the Merlot. Â Smooth tannins paired with the bright flavors make this wine great for pairing with just about anything, and in fact my wife and I paired it with a pizza after a long day. Â When I think of the kind of red table wine I’d like to keep around, this comes to mind, and if you’re looking for a Virginia wine to use as your table wine, you should definitely consider the Durant Red from Pollak Vineyards.
Whether visiting them or just at the store, if you come across the Durant Red, I would recommend giving it a try. Â I know I plan to get some more of it the next time I’m out at Pollak.
