Drink This: Vermilion Valley Vineyards 2021 Malbec
This Ohio born and bred red delivers a lot of deliciousness for $20
Are you enjoying The Cork Report? Do you want to support independent wine writing? Consider upgrading to a paid subscription.
I’ve told Vermilion Valley Vineyards winemaker Joe Juniper more than once that his prices are too low. His Vermilion Valley Vineyards 2021 Malbec ($20*) makes the argument yet again. In more established regions like New York, Virginia or Maryland, this would be at least $30.
It wouldn’t be over-priced, either.
The nose starts with cherry preserves and blueberry compote before some earthy cinnamon joins in, along with some slightly nutty oak influence. Medium-bodied and plump the palate shows concentrated mixed berry flavors that lean jammy but don’t overdo it, with layers of cherry cola, spice, and an underlying earthiness.
I’m not sure I’d peg it as malbec if tasted blind, but I can’t question the varietal correctness here — because I’ve never had a Lake Erie AVA malbec before, and Juniper is typically very true to the varieties he works with.
If this is what Lake Erie malbec tastes like, sign me up for more.
Vermilion Valley Vineyards 2021 Malbec
Region: Lake Erie AVA (Ohio)
ABV: 13%
Rating: 90 pts
Price: $20* (Available Here)
The Cork Report is reader-supported. Please consider upgrading to a paid subscription.
*sample provided by winery