2007 Horton Vineyards The Tower Series Virginia Norton

13.0% alc., $15. I reviewed the excellent book, The Wild Vine, recently (www.princeofpinot.com/article/ 943/), and was finally able to track down a bottle of Norton wine to sample. Norton is a native Virginia grape. Aged 14 months in oak. · Inky purple color in the glass. Aromas of crushed and cooked dark berries, smoke and a chemical note. Feral and peppery black fruits with a pharmaceutical taste in the background and a tangy lift of acid on the dry finish. Well-crafted and possessing an attractively smooth texture. Reminds me of Petite Sirah in heft and size of its tannic backbone. Needs hearty food. An “acquired” taste. Good. Reviewed November 7, 2010

Winery: Horton Vineyards
From article: Sips of Pinot