Wine ... Made in the Vineyard

Here at Corcoran we fully believe that the wine is made in the vineyard.

What we mean by this is that we have an intergrated vineyard management plan which includes; canopy management, pest management and soil management.

Canopy Management ... includes all aspects of the grapevine above the ground (trunk, cordon, stems, leaves, flowers and grapes).

Pest Management ... is all the viruses, mildews, rots, as well as all the insect pests.

Soil Management ... is understanding the nutrient cycle in the vineyard, including maintaining a proper pH in the soil which allows for the optimum nutrients for the grapes.

Why is this so important? I am currently tasting this vintage trying to determine if we captured the varietal character that was present in the grapes at harvest and formed during wine making. As I am tasting, I have to ask the following questions ... Did we capture fruit flavors, acidity, tannins? Is there anything unique about this wine? Are there off odors or flavors?

So after tasting the 2009 wines and answering these questions, I am now ready to start the exciting aspect of blending.

Snow - Snow - go away...

...and come back again another day!!

Corcoran will be CLOSED this weekend, Saturday and Sunday, February 13th & 14th as we were hit pretty hard by the snow drifts during the 2nd round-blizzard.

Enjoy this time indoors drinking new wines and try cooking with wine!

Cheers!

Malbec Vertical...

Corcoran is going to be celebrating Valentines by offering a Malbec vertical with some delicious chocolates. We have truffles and special dark chocolates to be paired especially with our Malbec. Malbec is a Bordeaux varietal that got is popularity in Argentina, but has been in the states for some time but used mainly as a blending grape. I have one specific grower who has planted Malbec here in Loudoun County, Wild Meadow Vineyard, and I have had the privilege of making the wine from it every year. Our Malbec has less tannins, more of a medium body with a beautiful plum color. It has flavors of dark cherry jam, mocha, coffee and a bit of spice which makes it pair so lovely with chocolate. So...reserve your spot at the bar with Lori to taste our Malbec this Valentine's weekend...YUM!!

Cheers!