What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with chocolates and red wine? That’s just what we did this past weekend as we visited Gray Ghost for their annual Cabernet and Chocolates celebration.
Before we made our way to the barrel room for all the chocolates we could possibly stand, we chatted with Amy Payette and Cheryl Kellert and learned that their 2006 Adieu, 2005 Reserve Chardonnay, and 2004 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon were recently awarded medals in a San Francisco wine competition. We congratulated them on a quick start to the medal counts, and with logo glasses in hand made our way to the treats. Warren nabbed one of the few black-stemmed glasses that have been the trademark of Gray Ghost glassware since the winery opened; however, they will be switching to a clear-stemmed glass that still bear the distinctive Gray Ghost logo. We both dashed for the chocolates which included brownies, dark chocolate bars, cakes, and chocolate covered dried fruit. Waiting for us at the wine table was Al Kellert who guided us through samplings of red wines that paired with our chocolate desserts.
Available for a sneak preview was a sample of the 2006 Merlot which was pulled from the barrel just for the Valentine’s event. Not quite ready for bottling, this 2006 Merlot already exhibited the lush cherry and vanilla character that are unique to the varietal. Paul was able to negotiate another sample, and he was already determined to purchase the Merlot upon its release. Warren favored the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon which seemed tailor made for dark chocolates. With berry-filled cookies and dried fruit, we both found the Cabernet Franc and the Victorian Red to be excellent matches.
Before we bid adieu, we were able to sample the 2006 Adieu. Always a consistent medal winner for Gray Ghost, this vintage is destined to continue that tradition. Made from late harvest Vidal Blanc grapes, the 2006 Adieu offers peach and apricot flavors with a very light, honeyed texture. Warren enjoys the Adieu with cheesecake, pound cake, or on its own, but do try this dessert wine with a slice of bleu cheese—sounds daring, but you’ll like the results!
Happy Valentine’s Day to all, and when you visit Gray Ghost, tell them that Virginia Wine Time sent you!