But let's talk about Bordeleau Vineyards for a second. Tom Shelton, owner and winemaker, is involved in creating and perfecting every wine. Tom started making fruit wines while still in his teens. After purchasing a farm in Allen, Maryland in 1998, he planted his first grape vines in 1999. Early plantings were Chardonnay, Vidal Blanc and Chambourcin, and he continued planting additional grape vines each year through 2003. Other varieties planted were Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Sauvignon Blanc.
After considerable deliberation he decided to seek his commercial license in the summer of 2006. With the renewed commitment, eight and one half acres of plantings were added from 2007 to 2011, including new varieties such as Malbec, Petite Verdot, Pinot Grigio, Viognier, and Muscat.
Bordeleau had been producing great quality estate wines since then. This Bordeleau Vineyards Reserve Chardonnay Lot Number 2 2015 was a lovely, lovely chardonnay. This chardonnay was barrel fermented and made in the Sur Lie method (the idea being that this extends the lies contact with the wine that contributes complexity to the wine). The result is great complexity and balance, and a big mouthfeel and great depth. There are green and red apples, ripe pears, and wonderful cirtus flavors as well on the nose and palate. It finishes with vanilla and spice. An impressive, impressive wine.
Really well done. Congrats, Tom!!!!!