Norton from Virginia

[Innkeeper]

1998 Horton Vineyards, Orange County, Virginia, Norton. Horton Norton sounds irresistible, doesn't it. Norton, for the uninitiated, is a Native American. In other environs, such as Missouri, it is known as Cynthiana.

Also known as the Virginia Claret, this one is nicely crafted. Blackberries and spice on the nose with no foxy traces. More fruit and spice along with some mild coffee joined up with minimally full body (12.5%) and smooth tannin in the race across the palate, ending with an oak inspired spicy finish.

Turned out to be a perfect match for leftover pork barbeque, and eggplant salad, two dishes that taste much better as leftovers. Would like the try more of this one.