I took a chance and carted off a few bottles of my Illuminatus Two Coasts to the Wine Bloggers Conference #WBC11 held in Charlottesville, Virginia this weekend. I knew that I liked the wine, but would it stand up to wine writers? Several writers tasted the wine including Richard Leahy (Richard Leahy’s Wine Report), Dave McIntyre (Dave McIntyre’s Wineline), Russ Kane (Vintage Texas), Jennifer Breaux Blosser (Breaux Vineyards), Elle Potter (Zephyr Adventures) and several other writers and sommeliers.
Illuminatus Two Coasts was a small batch (three cases) cellared, oaked and bottled at home. It was a desire to blend two varietal grapes that I enjoy. The blend is 80% Lake County, California Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Virginia Tannat. Those proportions were decided on a year ago when family members gave input on different percentages of each variety.
Several words were used, however, no one said the wine was plonk or the dreaded “interesting.” Actually the verbal statements were very positive. What can I take from this? First, wine writers can make wine. The second is that the wine made can hold its own with other writers. Wine writers should consider making wine. It can become very enlightening.
Cheers,
Terry
Props, Terry. You’re living my dream. Considering how freely some of us “critique” wine, jumping into the “making wine” foray is bold. I do envy and would love to taste your craft.