Founded in 2003 as a small family owned operation, Pollak now boasts over 26 acres planted to French vinifera grapes. Working with Virginia viticultural veteran Chris Hill, "Turtle" Zwadio meticulously manages Pollak’s more than 16,000 vines scattered among five distinct vineyard sites on the farm’s 98 acre estate. Varieties include Chardonnay, Viognier, Pinot Gris, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and most recently Petit Manseng.
Hand crafting has always been a big part the Pollak method. Winemaking is supervised by consulting winemaker Michael Shaps. Cellar Reserve members know Shaps well. He was originally trained in France, and now works with a number of Virginia operations in addition to his own Virginia label and his partnership in a Côte de Beaune (Burgundy) winery.
Pollak is located in western Albemarle County near the Nelson County line. The somewhat understated architectural lines of their tasting room mirror the understated elegance of their wines. While the vineyard and winery can be seen from the I-64 overlook, visitors relaxing on the porch are a world away from the hustle and bustle of the interstate in the distance. Wine Details
2008 Meritage
In the glass this outstanding red blend (44% Cabernet Franc, 43% Merlot, 13% Petit Verdot) presents with deep dark garnet lines filling the glass with color from rim to rim. The dark center core provides little indication of the waterfall of flavors contained within.
In the third tasting of this wine, I did not decant it, resulting in a tighter than average nose. With a significant effort of swirling and oxidizing this still developing wine, undertones of cedar and red licorice were dominant.
On attack this wine provides a carpet of red cherry and raspberry notes leading quickly to an expansive mid palate that included cascading layers of strawberry, plum and hints of milk chocolate. The exceedingly well integrated finish lingers on the rear of the palate like a good friend after a summer barbeque. Dark fruit tones dominate with a hint of pipe tobacco.
Though drinking very nicely now, those who can wait will be rewarded with increased mid palate complexity and an extended finish.
HOLD until Fall 2011 – Spring 2014
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