Jul 10thSmith-Berry Vineyard and Winery

After appearing on Great Day Live, we decided to visit Smith-Berry Vineyard and Winery, at New Castle, on the drive home. As usual, a visit there is relaxing and full of good wine. We tasted only the dry reds during this stop. There were six excellent choices. We started with a Zinfandel, this vintage has deep red berry flavors, with just a taste of spices. Next, we tried Brother John, made predominately with the Syrah grape. It has a deep garnet color, with aromas of plums or black cherries, and flavors of berries and plums. We also tried the John Harley, a big Zinfandel, that is named for Chuck Smith’s father. The wine has ruby colors, berry aromas, fruit and spice flavors.  Both the Merlot, and the Petite Sirah we tasted are lighter reds with more fruity finishes.

Our favorite was the Burley. This wine, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Norton, and Munson is one of the best reds available this season. Dark garnet in color, the wine has both the aromas and flavors of plum, raspberries, and cinnamon.

While we didn’t do a tasting of the Sauvignon Blanc this visit, I had tried it before and bought a couple of bottles. It is a crisp, dry white with fruity aromas and just a taste of minerals. It is a very good wine for these hot summer days.

Whatever your wine choice, dry or sweet, red or white, you will find something to love at Smith-Berry Vineyard and Winery. Just a short drive from I-71, it is a wonderful place to stop on a trip from Northern Kentucky to Louisville. The tasting room is inviting and there are places to sit and spend a relaxing afternoon.