Exclusive Officer’s Club Wines
May 11th, 2010
Spring is here at Airfield Estates! While we are finishing up some bottling in the cellar, we are also beginning to look at the fall and what is around the corner. One of the things I am most proud of at Airfield is our Wine Club. We have the best wine club members in the state and it is an ever expanding group. One of the changes that is around the bend is more wines that are exclusive to club members. Here is a list of club wines I am planning on making and when you can expect them to be ready for bottle.
Viognier (aged in Acacia) – I love experimenting with barrels. So far I have used American, Hungarian, French, and Russian oak barrels. In 2010, I will try something completely new, barrels made from Acacia. The Acacia tree is suppose to be great for barrels. It is toasted very lightly and enhances the fruitiness of the wine. I have penciled in doing 75 cases of Viognier this year in Acacia to see how it works. Fall 2011
Pinot Noir – From everything I’ve been told, making good Pinot Noir is one of the greatest challenges in winemaking. It is a very fickle grape that can crumble if not treated with delicate respect in the cellar. This year we are going to make 75 cases of Pinot Noir from our estate vineyards. Usually this fruit goes into sparkling wine but this year we are going to crop down an acre of vines & see what happens. Fall 2011
Sangiovese – I have felt for the last two years that Sangiovese has the potential to be something special in our vineyards. Finally, I will get to show you. A 100% Sangiovese is just around the corner. 75 cases – Fall 2010
Barbera – This Italian wine has been a challenge to grow. The grape has incredibly high acidity & has been difficult to reign in. I have often said that if I could leave it in barrel for 4 years, it would be a fantastic wine. This year’s Barbara is more in balance. While it will probably be 18 months in barrel, I have high hopes for this wine. Spring 2011
Mourvèdre – With pepper & spice on the nose & a full mouth feel this Mourvèdre will be a very popular wine club wine. 75 cases – Fall 2010
Counoise – Have you ever tried a varietal wine made from Counoise in Washington State? I didn’t think so… If you have please let me know because I am under the impression that we will be releasing the first one. The Counoise is a big hit with the Airfield Estates team and it is a result of their pleading and groveling that I will be making this wine. 75 cases – Fall 2010
In addition, we will continue to make…
Malbec – Bottled May 13th, 2010. 210 cases.
Dolcetto – Bottled Fall 2010. 125 cases.
Zinfandel – Bottled Fall 2010. 75 cases.
- By Marcus Miller, Airfield Estates Winemaker