Louis P. Balducci Vineyards

Thorough research into relaxation (what it is, how I can get more of it) has revealed numerous definitions of the word “relaxation.” The definition illustrated at Louis P. Balducci Vineyards is “alert relief from tension.” I have ridden out two storms in the clean, comfortable Balducci tasting room/restaurant. The fall storm issued in refreshing wafts of wet vineyard, and the winter storm was kept without by heaters in the now enclosed patio. I blithely toasted the fierce winter wind outside with a glass of Balducci’s ruby red port.

Despite 9% residual sugar, the treacle-like oversweetness of some ports is balanced-out here by a full, crisp body and a warming 18.6% alcohol by volume. Careful contemplation, with my feet up on the chair next to me, revealed chocolate, maple syrup, and dried fruit aromas and tastes from this Norton/Couderic blend. The aromas command tasting; the taste invokes relaxation. This was the perfect finish to a slow baked brie and pizza dinner at the winery. Illuminated artwork and matching piped-in jazz comfortably awakened the senses. The owners and employees were very nice, and I did not want to leave. But, being the serious researcher than I am, I had to get back to append my treatise on relaxation with a full report on the Louis P. Balducci Vineyard and their port.

$22.99/750mL

Reviewed January 11, 2006 by Tim Pingelton.