Iron Horse (3.88)





Open 10:00-3:30

Appt required? No

Last barlinwine.com visit: 2009

Directions


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Tasting:
Spectacular views greet visitors to the Iron Horse winery, nestled 2-3 miles from Ross Station Road. As you drive up the final hill to the winery and walk to the outdoor tasting area, a valley smothered in vines provides a soothing backdrop and a natural complement to Iron Horse's mellow sparkling wines, Chardonnays, and Pinot Noirs.

The winery allows the setting to take center stage, as tastings are conducted from the makeshift outdoor bar. The "dump bucket" was "over there by the vines" according to our hostess, and the atmosphere was relaxed. It was fairly busy when we went, and the information on the wines and personal attention was somewhat limited. However, we were able to try at least one "off menu" wine (the "Q" Pinot Noir) and I felt the experience allowed me to get a good sense of Iron Horse wine.

Recommended wine: I went into the tasting with high expectations, and I was a little bit disappointed. I thought all of the wines we tried were pretty good, but I didn't taste anything great. Compared to some other stops that day (Hartford, Martinelli), the quality of the Iron Horse pinot noirs couldn't hold up to the competition or justify the price tag. We were able to try the "Q" Pinot Noir, which was still tight but should be very good in a few years. Otherwise, nothing spectacular. Go for the view and the tasting, not to purchase.


Ratings (out of 5):



WINE
3.75
TASTING ROOM
4.25

ATMOSPHERE
4.25
VALUE
3.25

OVERALL
3.88