Had enough pre-election rhetoric? Feel as though watching one more debate or political ad is going to throw you over the edge? Let the premium wines of Black Walnut Winery be the solution to make your election year truly presidential.
Black Walnut Winery—owned and operated by Lance and Val Castle and Jack and Karen Kuhn—has been producing award-winning wines since 2009 in their converted bank bark in Sadsburyville, Chester County. A chic and approachable tasting room also operates in the quaint town of Phoenixville.
Do you favor red or white? Does one pair better with poultry and pork, or is one a better match for a loaded cheese plate and fruit? It’s time to take sides—or maybe these bipartisan bottles of vino can work together to please even the staunchest critic. You decide.
Make America Red Again
2013 Merlot (New Release)
A great crowd-pleaser, this medium-bodied wine begins with leather, black currant and herbal aromas. Flavors include dark cherry, coffee and toasted almond. The balanced acidity and soft tannins present a smooth finish and go splendidly with pork, salmon and holiday feasts. ($24)
2012 Cabernet Sauvignon
Pairing well with steaks and hard Italian cheeses, this medium-bodied wine presents rich aromas of spice, black cherry and blackberry and is similar to a Bordeaux without the heavy tannins. Finish flavors include tart cherry and (wait for it) teaberry with a hint of vanilla. ($23)
Bank Barn Red
This consistent power hitter has a strong black cherry aroma on the nose with an initial hit of cherry cola, then moves onto dried fruits and blackberry. Bank Barn has a nice soft and slightly sweet finish. ($16)
I’m With White
2014 Sauvignon Blanc (New Release)
The wine starts with herbaceous and green apple aromas and is highly acidic and crisp, with lime and grassy notes for a quick mineral finish. It pairs well with Alfredo sauces, cold pasta salads, sushi, light fish dishes with dill and lighter fruits like melon and bananas. ($20)
2014 Vidal Blanc
One of the winery’s sweetest blends offers 3.5% residual sugar with an aroma of slight fruit and floral notes. Distinct flavors of melon and mango round out this hybrid, which pairs well with Indian cuisine or spicy dishes. ($18)
2012 White Cabernet (New Release)
Actually considered a rose wine, this inaugural varietal is slightly sweet with aromas of fresh strawberries and ripe peaches on the nose. Flavors include tart white cherry with a hint of watermelon mid-palate, which leads to a soft finish that pairs perfectly with spicy dishes. ($19)
Undecided?
For those who are still on the fence, we recommend a shout-out to local favorite Apple, which has an upfront Golden Delicious bite with a slight banana lead. The well-rounded flavor is accentuated with a light coconut finish and is great with most soft and light cheeses. ($16)
Whether you attempt to legislate a large group of friends and family over for a potluck dinner, rub elbows with the girls at a favorite paint class or just plan an independent date night with that special someone—vote for Black Walnut Winery. It’s always a winner.
Bonus Concert!
Get patriotic by adding authentic soulful blues to those reds and whites. Check out the final outdoor FREE concert of the season with the Deb Callahan Band as a thank you to Black Walnut’s customers for their support this year. The winery is going to host a small daytime Halloween party, too; all ages are welcome. The rain-or-shine event will have trick-or-treating for kids. Adults who show up in costume can enjoy half-price wine tasting. Cheese plates and light snacks will be available for purchase, or feel free to bring your own picnic.
Sign up for the winery’s newsletter online for information on releases, tasting specials, events and gift-giving ideas, as well as the latest on local craft brew offerings.
Find Black Walnut Winery at 3000 Lincoln Highway in Sadsburyville; phone: (610) 857-5566. Hours are Wednesday–Sunday, 12–6 p.m. (or by appointment). The Black Walnut Tasting Room is located at 260 Bridge St. in Phoenixville; phone: (484) 924-8740. Hours are Wednesday–Thursday, 4–9 p.m.; Friday, 4–10 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; and Sunday, 1–8 p.m. (or by appointment).
- Photos: Ed Williams
