Nantucket Vineyards 2001
One of my favorite things to do on Nantucket (besides reading Moby Dick for the umpteenth time) is to go do a tasting at Nantucket Vineyards . Owner Dean Long is usually on hand to pour the delicious wines, and I end up carrying a case back on the ferry with me each time. This trip was even more special than usual, as Dean had started making his own whiskey, and we were out to try some!
The "Triple Eight" distillery was named because three 8s are thought to be lucky in many cultures. The centerpiece of the building is the shiny still which was, in a previous life, a fruit brandy still. Now it does nicely creating whiskey out of beer and barley. We talked at length about how whiskey is made, and Dean explained how he even brought out a Scottish whiskey consultant to help get the proper feel for the process.
The consultant must have been top notch, because combined with Dean's natural talent, the whiskey was already quite delicious. The current batch of barrels will be ready in 2005, but most if not all of this batch is already spoken for on futures. Dean talked about how surprised he was at the variety of people who were asking for reservations, a testament to the rewards of the effort put into the task.
In addition to the whiskey, Dean is also producing a Vodka created from organic grain from Holland. Dean dispelled the myth that Vodka tastes the same. He found quite the opposite when he was sampling stock to determine where to buy from! The Triple-8 vodka is ready for purchase now, as is the full wine selection.
We went back to the winery proper to continue our tasting. While Dean tried for many years to grow grapes on the island, Mother Nature refused to cooperate. They now bring in the grapes from Washington State, except for the Zinfandel which comes from Lodi, California.
The Riesling Nantucket Sleighride is done in stainless steel, and you can taste it in the smooth, bright flavors, with flower and orange being highlights. The Sauvignon Blanc is crisp and light, with melon flavors.
On the red side, we tried the Sailor's Delight, a blend of Zinfandel and Merlot. This was fresh and fruity, with berry flavors. The straight Zinfandel is one of my favorites and has full berry, cherry, tobacco and oak flavors. This is usually the wine that dominates my take-home case.
In addition to the winery, the beer shop and the distillery, Dean also has quite an extensive garden with gorgeous flowers and a variety of plants. He loves to watch things grow, and has quite a green thumb. If you're ever on the grey island, be sure to make this a key stop!
All content on the WineIntro website is personally written by author and wine enthusiast Lisa Shea. WineIntro explores the delicious variety and beautiful history which makes up our world of wine! Lisa loves supporting local wineries and encouraging people to drink whatever they like. We all have different taste buds, and that makes our world wonderful. Always drink responsibly.