2005 Norton – Grove Winery and Vineyards – Gibsonville, NC

This is an old review I wrote for another site

This wine had a lot to live up to since it happens to be of my favourite American Varietal, Norton (or Cynthiana depending on where you live). Thankfully, it didn’t disappoint me though I have to be honest that it really didn’t get me overly excited either. Though don’t get me wrong it is still quite good and definitely worth the purchase for me. And it really shows that worth when you get that initial hit of the oh so Norton raspberry aroma, which is truly a lovely thing. You also get an interesting spiciness to the smell as well as an interesting hint of eucalyptus (which I must say I haven’t gotten from a Norton before). Once you move onto the taste you are again hit with that strong raspberry flavor, though this time it’s joined by a fruity jam sort of flavour. You also get an interesting hint of what I believe to be coffee in this wine, though that could just be me. All these aromas and flavours come together quite well for a meal were I had a nice grilled steak with some lightly seasoned asparagus, though I think it would go equally well with any red sauce pasta. So if you are a fan of wines like Merlot or a good Cab then I believe you should enjoy this wine pretty well. And if you aren’t then go on and try something new and give it a shot, who knows you might like it.