Whelp, the world has changed quite a bit since we restarted this little project at the beginning of the year. I don’t think any of us could’ve predicted what was about to happen back then! At any rate, local wineries need our support more than ever.
How about writing a review of your favorite?
Or suggesting a new one to add to our list?
Tasting Sessions
New feature on the website — a recap of any tastings we’ve done recently of PA wines. First up: Karamoor Estate.
Facebook Group
Are you a member of our Pennsylvania Wine Drinkers Facebook Group? If not, join us today! We chat all things Pennsylvania Wine, as well as PLCB picks, in store experiences, online ordering, general wine trends, and more.
Here are a few highlights from the past months:
Natasha asked about visiting wineries in Montco and Bucks, and Greg responded with an link to PA winery visitation status.
Speaking of visits…
Amanda recommended Vox Vineti, noting that “the wines were interesting and excellent, the setting was intimate, and the owner was very informative and knowledgeable.” (And yes, they allow dogs.)
David reported that 1723 Vineyards was “definitely worth checking out,” and that “the Riesling was really nice, dry style … [the Cab Franc] was big and bold as expected… the Chambourcin was the red in the tasting and i’m never a fan but that was probably the best one i’ve had in PA.”
Karen and family “had a lovely afternoon at Penns Woods Winery in Chaddsford, Pa. Their wines are rich in flavors. The nose of the Chambourcin 2016 Reserve is delectable. Truly, an award winning winery.”
Meanwhile, at home…
Anthony enjoyed a “lovely chardonnay” from Grace Winery.
Claudia broke out a bottle of Va La 2015 Silk to pair with rack of lamb.
Jean shared that Karamoor “wine is amazing.”
Amanda picked a perfect June afternoon to sit outside and open a bottle of Albarino from Galer Estate in Kennett Square.
Lost Mount Penn
In late 2019 I released my first book, Lost Mount Penn: Wineries, Railroads and Resorts of Reading, which explores the fascinating society and wine house culture that made Mount Penn near Reading one of the best known resort regions in the country in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Sadly, most of my scheduled 2020 book appearances were cancelled. Here’s hoping for 2021?
I was, however, a virtual guest on the PCN TV show “PA Books” over the summer. Catch it on PCN reruns or listen to the podcast.
I’ll also be presenting to the Historic Foodways Society of the Delaware Valley at their November 7th virtual meeting.
Lastly, it was finally released for Kindle in July.
More Wine News Around the Commonwealth:
- Briar Valley Winery sold to owners of a Westmoreland County producer: A shame, as BV made some of my favorite PA reds. Hopefully the new owners will continue that tradition.
- Pioneering PA vintner John Skrip Jr., founder of Clover Hill Winery, passed away. RIP
- These grapes are the PA wine industry’s next big thing: An article I wrote for Keystone Edge, highlighting some lesser-known grapes grown in PA that everyone should try.
- A Concrete Rose Book Bar Will Be PA’s First Black-Owned Winery: as reported by PA Eats
- Join the Fight Against the Spotted Lanternfly: TL;DR: stomp ’em every chance you get!
- Who makes the most wine and cider in PA? Just remember, bigger is not always better.
- Nebbiolo has been worth the ‘huge risks’ for Chester County winery: The 12th vintage of Va La Cedar.
- A Deep Dive Into the Many, Verifiably False Claims of ‘Clean Wine’ Companies: This is not specific to PA, but it is relevant to all wine drinkers. Knowledge is power.
That’s it for now — stay safe out there everyone!