United States of Wine

Cadenza Vineyards — Resonance — 2023 — Brogue, PA

Price: $44; https://www.cadenzavineyards.com/

We tried Cadenza Vineyard’s 2023 Resonance twice, about three months apart, as one tasting had some great guest tasters at the vineyard with more insight. Both times, this wine was simply magnificent.

Pennsylvania wines continue to shock me with how good they are, from Pinnacle Ridge’s 2022 Levitas to South Shore Wine Company’s 2021 Traminette. Cadenza Vineyards is no different, growing grapes in the subtle hills of southern portion of the state, just miles from the mighty Susquehanna River.

Winemaker Carl Helrich has an obvious respect for the soil in this part of the state, and manages his vines with the climate in mind. To be honest, something about the smell and taste of his wines remind me of an Old World wine, rather than some of the varieties I’ve tasted around the country.

All this to say: If you ever find yourself looking for a great wine in southeast Pennsylvania, you’d do yourself a favor by tasting whatever Cadenza has available at the time. And if you need more convincing, here’s our preview of their 2023 Resonance, made with 53% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Petit Verdot and 12% Cabernet Franc, all estate-grown grapes.

The wine is a deep burgundy color, opaque, with a medium body. A fragrance filled the space with a fruity sweetness. Jammy on the nose. With some air, the scent of strawberry and soy sauce appeared.

Because the largest base of this wine is Merlot, it was very low in tannins, despite it having a full body taste. Soy sauce and umami hit the palette, and a hint of black pepper lent to the dryness in the back of the throat. It left a mouthful feeling of bright fruit.

I would recommend this wine several times over for a gathering or delicious red meat meal. It’s soft and delicate without backing down in flavor. This is the perfect American wine to share with the people you care about.

Score: 9.5/10