Waterford Vineyards: Toasting with Corky
Waterford Vineyards
Since that time, September of 2006, Dezel has checked the Waterford Vineyards web site from time to time to see when the Cabernet Franc 2005 would be released. While visiting the Waterford Vineyards web site, the following comment was noticed: “Have you met Corky yet?” Well, Dezel has visited Waterford Vineyards at least three times in the past and had never met Corky. This time would be different, as Vine Spot finally had the opportunity to meet Corky, as well as, try some of the tasty Cabernet Franc 2005.
~Gorgeous view as we approach the winery ~
While driving up to Waterford Vineyards, the picturesque pond that sits next to the tasting room has spring time picnic written all over it. Dezel wholeheartedly welcomes the warmer weather friends! Vine Spot arrived to the charming 18th century log cabin farm house that sits adjacent to the eye catching rustic barn and was warmly greeted by owner and Jim's better half, Lori Corcoran, who can always be found in the tasting room spreading good cheer and eager to pour and talk about Waterford Vineyards well crafted wines. Alongside Lori, was father-in-law Corky, whose lively and enthusiastic greeting was as pleasantly refreshing as the acidity found in a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.
The eye-catching barn!
After some friendly and entertaining conversation, Corky assisted Vine Spot through the tasting of the full spectrum of red and white wines offered. The wines tasted were as follows: Vintners Reserve Chardonnay 2005, Barrel Select Chardonnay 2005, Viognier 2005, Chambourcin 2005, Cabernet Franc 2005, Malbec 2002, and for the sweet and zesty ending, the Seyval Blanc 2005. During our tasting, Corky was highly informative and really made our tasting experience entertaining and interactive. In fact, there was never a dull moment!
Dezel chatting with Corky about the powers of the Malbec 2002
The wines poured exhibited good varietal character and the newly released Cabernet Franc 2005 was nicely done and upcoming in Vine Spots next Weekly Sip. The talent behind the winemaking at Waterford Vineyards is the husband and wife team of Vicki and Mark Fedor. In a very short time this dynamic and great grape duo has done an excellent job of producing quality hand crafted wines. Vine Spot looks forward to many future vintages to come from this duo.
~ Good wine starts in the vineyard ~
Following our tasting, we informed Corky that we had a very delightful time talking and tasting with him. Dezel, however, was curious to find out Corky’s secret to remaining bright, brilliant and youthful. Corky revealed that the Waterford Vineyards Malbec 2002 was his secret, and indeed, the Malbec 2002 has also aged very well. The Malbec 2002 is medium bodied and nicely balanced offering an inviting bouquet of dark cherry and coffee bean aromas. On the palate are ripe dark fruit flavors with vanilla, clove and cocoa nuances; this wine can be consumed now or stored in your cellar for several more years. With spring around the corner both the Vintners Reserve Chardonnay 2005 and the Seyval Blanc 2005 should find their way into your picnic basket. Want a wine to pair with spicy ethnic cuisine? Try the refreshing and fruit driven Viognier 2005.
Toasting with Corky by days end: Malbec 2002
Vine Spot's visit to Waterford Vineyards reemphasizes that most Virginia tasting rooms are filled with more than just good wine. Most tasting rooms are filled with knowledgeable and friendly people like our pal Corky and project a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere. These things all heighten the wine tasting experience, which 99.9% of the time results in many satisfied and repeat customers. With that said, Vine Spot hopes to toast with Corky again in the spring. In the mean time, Vine Spot will be sipping a generous amount of the recommended ‘potion of youth’, the Malbec 2002!
Happy Sipping !
Dezel
