Early Mountain is a Virginia winery that has been proving that the state has the ability to make wine worthy of your attention. Their wines aren’t trying to be California heavy hitters but, rather, balanced expressions of the Virginia terroir. Their “Foothills” bottling is a fresh red wine, meant to drink young. It shows cranberry, wild raspberry, and soft leather notes. The gentle winemaking style respects the fruit rather than overpowering it. I also appreciate the screw top cap and 13% alcohol, lower than many other domestics and, again, proving that Early Mountain isn’t trying to force power into the wine. This is a winery that is worth visiting if your travels bring you to their area.
Early Mountain, Virginia (United States) 2020
By Vince Simmon