The Cost of Drinking Local

In his latest blog Harvey Steinman, when discussing local Colorado wine, states "...I have a tough time justifying the prices asked for the drinkable but not exceptional wines I have tried" (to read the full article http://www.winespectator.com/blogs/show/id/48239)

What is the cost of drinking local? In Pennsylvania, specifically the greater Philadelphia region, there are two types of wineries, those who produce sweeter style hybrid wines and those who focus on traditional varietals. Around the greater Philadelphia area there are two wineries that standout for their quality, Penns Woods Winery and Va La Vineyards. Penns Woods focuses on Merlot, Cabernet and a Red Blend. Va La's red wines focus on Italian varietal blends. Both are gems in the local wine community. Both use at least some new French oak which has a high overhead.

I will visit each tasting room this spring and provide reviews of their wines in future posts.

But...

Both wineries charge a premium price for their wines ($25-$50 on average). For Penns Woods the challenge with Bordeaux varietals in the 25-50 range, the price to quality ratio of California (Napa, Sonoma, Paso) is tough to match. Plus the selection at the PA Wine and Spirits for California Cabernet and Merlot is extensive not to mention the deals and 90 point rating signs.

Va La offers unique blends that you will not find at any local wine shop but the price point is what many may consider high (the new 2009 Seed retails at $45). For many people it is often difficult to 'judge' a wine if they have no frame of reference or a wine to compare against. This can work in favor of the winery or against it.

Va La offers local cheeses and chocolates paired with their wine for an educational and enjoyable tasting. Penns Woods has an intimate tasting room and has offered the chance to be part of a harvest in past vintages. Both offering are invaluable experiences for the local wine drinker. Wine is much more than opening a Cult Cab or a First Growth Bordeaux and both wineries offer opportunity to expand your horizons.

The cost of these bottle may be high and they may never score 100 points from Spectator or Advocate but if we continue to push the farm to table movement we should also support the local wine movement especially when wineries are making a serious effort to craft serious wine.

Do you support local wineries?