Besides a great view, Benmarl Winery is really coming into its own. I recently had their 2010 New York State Slate Hill Red and was pleasantly surprise how well I enjoyed it. Maybe it was because I didn’t have any expectations before I opened the bottle.
In the glass I found a lightly bright red wine with aromas of plum and a little smoke. The palate was filled with black fruit and candied cherry. Towards the mid palate there was a subtle hint of soft black pepper and the wine finished with delicate raspberry touch.
The wine is a blend of 45% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petite Verdot and 5% Malbac. It was aged 20% in oak and 80% in stainless steel.
I served this wine with Kiernan Farms Beef Sausage and peppers and it was a great pairing.
This wine sells for $18.99 in the tasting room. I was recently at McArthur’s Wines & Liquors in Hyde Park and noticed this wine on display. You can pick it up there as well.