Dollop of Damson 2023

Site
Barren Ridge Vineyards - Augusta County, Virginia 1380’
Bluestone Vineyard - Bridgewater, Rockingham County, Virginia 1240’ elevation
Countryside Farm & Nursery - Crimora, Augusta County, Virginia 1260’ elevation
Dickie Brother’s Orchard - Roseland Virginia, 1050’ elevation

Fruit
42% apples including Harrison, Pomme Gris, Wickson, and Lambrook Pippin, 34% Vidal Blanc, 14% Traminette , 10% Damson plum

Vinification
Traminette was the first varietal to be harvested, starting in early September 2023 and Vidal a few weeks later. Both grapes were foot tread wholelcuster with the Traminette seeing a two week maceration and the Vidal a brief overnight soak before being pressed. The combination was later combined with an early October direct press of apples into a 500L neutral French oak puncheon. An uninoculated, native fermentation concluded later into November and the wine was left undisturbed until being racked off its gross/fine lees in April of 2024. Damson plum wine was blended in tank and the resulting wine was bottled traditional method. After resting on its lees for four months, bottles were hand disgorged in late August 2024. No additions of SO2 were made at any stage of this wine.

Notes
A dollop of Damson has been an evolving wine over the years, attempting to find harmony between different fruits that we feel represent Virginia well from an agricultural sense. To us, Virginia wine doesn’t have to be confined to outdated hierarchy or made to replicate the success of other growing regions. This vintage could possibly be our finest effort at this goal; a wine that truly showcases several different fruits in balance, creating a wine unique all together to its own. Crunchy fruit provides a refreshing and balanced acidity. There is a touch of sneaky grip and heightened aromatics with the new additional of extended maceration Traminette. The increased percentage of Damson offers brightness and less botanical components that previous vintages. Drink with a good chill and enjoy this beautiful color of this quaffable sparkling wine. 

56 cases produced, 10.39% Alc. by Volume, 750ml