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Shelton Vineyards Two-Five-Nine Tannat Yadkin Valley 2017

We continue enjoying wines ordered directly from wineries.  In a previous post, I noted that Shelton Vineyards in North Carolina was offering a 20% discount on six bottles with free shipping.  That offer is still available and it is one of the best sales around.

The Two-Five-Nine wines are Shelton's premium reserve offerings.  We have found that there is a sharp increase in quality in the Two-Five-Nine wines over the lesser priced Estate wines and we especially recommend the Petit Verdot and Tannat wines.

The Tannat wine grape originated in southwest France.  Today, it is the national grape of Uruguay and it is grown in small amounts in Maryland, Virginia and North Carolina.  It was often grown in those eastern states to blend with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot to give the wine darker color and more body but in recent years, a few wineries are experimenting with producing Tannat wine.  I recently tasted a Tannat from Uruguay and it was delicious and moderately priced.

Two-Five-Nine Tannat is made from 100% Estate grown Tannat grapes.  A few months ago, this 2017 Tannat was awarded "Best Red Vinifera Wine" at the North Carolina wine competition.  This is a prestigious honor.

This wine is a very dark colored wine in the glass.  I noted aromas of black fruit and spice.  It is a full bodied wine with blackberry and spice flavors.  After an hour, I detected a little black cherry and cola.  There are enough tannins to pair this with a juicy steak and the finish is long.  

Shelton regularly sells this for $25 but the 20% discount reduces it to $20.  I recommend it!

SC Wine Joe rating = 91 points



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