2006 Deep Creek – Artisan Red
“Have you had any of the Maryland wines over there?” I asked, motioning to the shelf of 10-12 Maryland wines inside the Chesapeake Wine Company in Canton. Their selection of locals was bigger than most, and I hoped that translated into something of quality.
“I’ve had them all,” my salesperson said.
“Any of them worth it?”
She frowned. An underwhelming response indeed.
But, she rallied and recommended two wines from Deep Creek, which I was happy about because I hadn’t tried anything from them. I took home a 2006 Deep Creek Artisan Red for $16. The back label advertised a”bistro red” which I hoped would mean a lighter wine that won’t smack you in the face with fruit and alcohol.
I’m happy to say that the wine delivered. It’s smooth and light and unpretentious, nice for paring with roasted broccoli and a veggie burger. The wine is a blend of mostly Cab Franc, with 20% Malbec and 10% Norton to fill in the gaps. The color and mouthfeel worked like a Pinot. Spicy cherry and plum fruits to taste. A good summer grilling wine. At $16 dollars it’s not going to light up the QPR meter, but the wine is in good standing if you’re going local.
