Best in Class

Written by Nicole Papantoniou

Sherwood House Vineyards specializes in classic French wines with clones from Dijon. Their 2008 Chardonnay was just awarded a best of class gold medal with 91 points at the Los Angeles International Wine and Spirits Competition. The buttery wine with hazelnut notes is one of their best-sellers. Sherwood House Vineyards just released their 2007 Cabernet Franc, which was a great year according to Barbara Smithen. “The weather was beautiful, just like today [a crisp, fall day]. There wasn’t a lot of rain,” she says. While you won’t be able to try the 2007 Cab Franc at Queens Uncorked 2011—only 50 cases are being produced—you will be able to try the 2008 and 2010 Chardonnay, 2005 Merlot and 2006 Sherwood Manor blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot.

Dr. Charles and Barbara Smithen, owners of Sherwood House Vineyards, invite you to come sit all day on their vineyard in Mattituck and sip their wine. Their small tasting room provides for a very cozy and laidback visit with their seven dogs running around the property. Their main tasting room in Jamesport, a newly renovated 1860’s Farmhouse, is larger and has an outside deck, fireplace and event barn where they host most of their events. Call to reserve your spot at their upcoming charcuterie pairing on November 12 and cheese pairing on November 19.

Sherwood House Vineyard, 
2600 Oregon Rd. and Elijah’s Ln., Mattituck, 631-779-2817, sherwoodhousevineyards.com