VARIETAL INFORMATION: The Norton grape is a true native American grape of the species vitis aestivalis and the official state grape of Missouri. Since the Norton grape evolved under midwestern, continental growing conditions, it is perfectly suited to our long, warm summers and cold winters. In addition, it is blessed with a natural resistance to all types of fungal disease. Our Estate Bottled Norton is produced from 100 percent estate-grown Norton grapes from our Kemperberg and Cross J vineyards. Careful fermentation on the skins is followed by 12 months of aging in French, Hungarian and American oak barrels. 2,500 cases produced.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION: Harvested late-October 2008; Alcohol - 13.5%

TASTING INFORMATION: Often compared to the great wines of southern Europe, our Norton is full-bodied and dry, with tremendous fruit and complexity to complement red meat, wild game, lamb or full-flavored foods. It's grown on our estate vineyards and harvested late in the season at the peak of ripeness, then aged in small French, Hungarian and American oak barrels. While delicious now, it will develop complexity with aging. Ripe supple tannins, intense blackberry flavors and spicy aromas. (750ml)

AWARDS:
Gold - Sweepstakes - 2011 Mid-American Wine Competition, IA
Gold - Double Gold - 2012 Taster's Guild International Wine Competition, MI
Gold - Chairman's Award - 2012 Riverside International Wine Competition, CA
Gold - 2011 Indy International Wine Competition, IN