I will post more information about publication date. Virginia Wine Lover Magazine can be picked up at Kroger or viewed online at http://www.vawinelover.com.
The baked garlicky penne was the perfect companion to Horton’s "The Tower Series" Norton 2007. My meal concluded with a delicate fruit-topped panna cotta that played very nicely together. I was first introduced to Horton's Norton during my visit to Horton Vineyards years ago on a Saturday wine excursion with friends. While blazing through the extensive wine list, I concluded it was robust red (Virginia) wines I preferred most, characteristics I cherish in Horton's Norton. Native to Virginia since the 1820s, owner Dennis Horton reintroduced Norton to a skeptical wine market in the early 1990s. This masterpiece is a regular visitor (that doesn't stay long) in my wine rack.
On pour, Horton's Norton is a deep rich maroon purple with a thin ruby red halo on the brim that remains opaque even when a couple of sips remain in the glass. A swirl and sniff, after properly decanting, gives an accurate preview of what you're about to experience – spicy with dark fruit aromas and oak. Sipping reveals further notes of blackcurrants, tart cherries with the spicy, dry oak finish that has a tendency to gently tickle the nose only when sipped too fast. Red wine drinkers should rejoice while strict white wine drinkers would find it intimidating.
Not only does Norton pair well with Italian dishes, its spicy character would pair beautifully with rabbit, venison, making it ideal for post-Thanksgiving meals. By itself, very apropos to savor next to the fire after a busy day of holiday shopping and festivities. Here's to Virginia! Enjoy!
