John’s December Pick of the Month

CHATEAU O’BRIEN

AT NORTHPOINTE

2006

Northpointe Red

$24

Proprietor Howard O’Brien and winemaker Jason Murray have crafted a distinct red blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Cabernet Franc and 10% Tannat. The wine opens with a “smell the taste” aroma of cherry, spice and mint and follows on the palate with black cherry, a dash of licorice and a soft spice finish. This fourteen-month French oak aged, rich-bodied red is nicely matched with a winter repast of rosemary lamb chops and rice pilaf. Drink now through 2012.

Chateau O’Brien is located at 3238 Rail Stop Road, Markham, VA, just off I-66 West at Exit 18. The winery, with its eye-catching deck view, is opened Thursday through Monday, 11 AM to 5 PM. (540) 364-6441. www.chateauobrien.com