Michael R.
Yelp
I'd been meaning to visit this winery for quite a while and I finally had the chance to stop by. I loved the mature, quieter aspects of this experience. The tasting room is cozy and quaint, but elegantly decorated. The staff member who attended to us was exceptionally friendly, and explained the history of the winery and the types of wines they make. She made some excellent recommendations and we were able to explore a good selection of the wine list.
Penns Woods specializes in European style wines. While 98% of their grapes are grown on property, these are not your typical Pennsylvania wines. In fact, I would put most of the selections up against European and California makers in a blind taste test.
Of note, the Ameritage and Proprietor's Reserve are excellent, European-style offerings - with the former taking a full-bodied, Bordeaux approach. These are wines that will feel right at home over a special meal, during the holidays, or while enjoying a quiet evening in front of the fire place.
The Naked Chamburcin (no oak) is perhaps the finest example of this varietal and style to be found in PA. It's light and delicate, but flavorful and can hold its own when paired with poultry or pork. Serve it slightly cooler if you want a nice evening wine during the summer as well.
The Pinot Noir is is another excellent option for those who sometimes feel red can be a little heavy. I found this wine to be incredibly silky, maybe slightly heavier than some other offerings, but still an excellent choice, to drink by itself, or with a variety of dishes.
I found all the offerings to be consistently smooth, refined, and spritely on the palate. I never came away feeling overpowered by the Reds, or feeling as if they were going to hit on the heavier side. Well balanced from the first sip to the last.
I tried eight different wines during my visit and came away, impressed with every single one of them. Admittedly, I am more partial to reds and Penns Woods does an amazing job of crafting quality, dry red wines.
If you're someone looking for sweet, jammy wines, this probably isn't going to be your first option. However, if you're looking for mature, elegant, bolder reds, and zesty, dryer whites, this is easily, your best choice in Chester County.
In other words, this is not your typical PA winery offering foxier wines at a lower price point. You're going to pay for quality, and at a price point that's a bit closer to some of your handcrafted, California wines, or even those from the top makers in places like Virginia or Washington. However, the wines are certainly worth the slightly higher price point.