Wine Tasting: Chateau Morrisette Heritage

Name:  Chateau Morrisette Heritage
Variety: Chambourcin, Tannat, Fortified with Brandy

Region: Virginia

Country: United States
Year: 2011
Price: $40

Shop review:  The wine was brightened with a bit of fresh Chambourcin, while the structure was augmented with the addition of Tannat.  Entrancing aromas of plum and black cherry presage the intensely fruity entry, layered with the character of black tea, baking spices, vanilla and cocoa.  The texture of this deep ruby colored full-bodied wine is silky and emollient; lingering aromas will persist on the palate.  Like all Port-style wines, heritage is fortified and finished sweet, and pairs well with chocolate. 

My review:  Extremely oaky, vanilla flavored, and earthen on the nose, which makes since it was aged for 27 months in oak and fortified with brandy. The wine was somewhat spicy, with raspberry cinnamon, and cocoa bean flavor, and very alcoholic (18%). Our tasting guide said to pair this with cayenne-chocolate, which seems like an excellent idea. I enjoyed this wine quite a bit, and would even say it was my favorite of the day.