I had the opportunity to taste Hark Vineyards wines at the most recent Easterny Winery Exposition in Richmond, Virginia. Hark Vineyards, located in Earlysville, Virginia, is owned and operated by Candice (Candi) and Aaron Hark. The couple, who have a background in the tech industry, purchased the 80-acre estate in 2015 and opened the winery in 2019, specializing in estate-grown wines. The team includes winemaker AJ Greely, who is also president of the Virginia Vineyards Association. The wine maker had been Jake Busching in the past, who now has his own place.
Hark Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2023 was made from fruit grown in the Monticello American Viticultural Area (AVA), about 10 miles north of Charlottesville, with 20 acres under vine. It was aged 10 months in equal parts concrete and neutral oak barrels. 525 cases were produced. The nose and the palate of this fruit forward Cab Franc start with black cherry, blackberry, and red cassis. There's notes of cocoa powder, spice, and white pepper. Its round and soft, but with enough tannin to give it some back bone. A dark, rich wine with lots of nose and flavor. Really an exceptional wine.
I love Hark wines. They always deliver quality and flavor. An outstanding example of this varietal wine. Congrats to all involved.