When I think of Greenhill, the terms ‘classy’ and ‘swanky’ come to mind. The tasting room reminds me of a French country house with windows overlooking a vineyard. And if that’s not enough, the members tasting room is a manor house, just down the road. Like I said – swanky!
Mike Shaps is the current winemaker, although many of the current vintages were made under Sebastien Marquet. Both guys are great fits for this place. I’ve always loved Sebastien’s wines (he also used to service Doukenie) but I suspect Mike Shaps will kick it up yet another notch. Working with 14 acres under vine (maybe more off site as well), this gives Greenhill a fair amount of leeway in their production.
Given the surroundings, this is definitely an adults-only, no dogs experience. Luckily I was able to grab a spot on the patio outside and order some snacks and my flight from there. That’s right! While you can certainly taste wine at the bar, they likewise offer seated tastings. Classy – remember?
As you would expect from a winery that definitely gets their inspiration from France, they have amazing chardonnays, red blends, and sparklings. Luckily my server was kind enough to give me a few on top of the usual options.
What I tried:
2017 Chardonnay: Soft, with a tad of butter but actually made in steel
2017 Reserve Chardonnay: Amazing! Very aromatic and expressive. French oak
2017 Ontology: Made with Chambourcin, although I never would have guessed it. While Chambourcin is usually fruity, this was unusually bold and the fruit was more subtle. This was the surprise of the bunch
Philosophy: Very close for 2nd favorite. Ripe red fruit flavors. Red blend with 27% Cab Sauv but also with Cab Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot
2016 Mythology: 80% Merlot 20% Petit Verdot, 15 months French Oak
2017 Petit Verdot: Tasting young. As PVs go, this wasn’t overly bold either. Surprisingly only 6 months in French oak! Still liked it
2016 Superstition: Syrah heavy, medium weight
2017 Riesling: Estate wine. Some tropical fruit, especially honeydew
2017 Seyval Blanc: Strong notes of honeydew, very easy drinking
Wine Trails and Wanderlust 
When I walk in I think “Chip and Joanna Gaines did this.” Atmostphere is great. Curious to see how the wine will change with new winemaker in place…..
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