Bully Hill is primarily known for their bulk hybrid wines, generally on the medium sweet side of things. they do, however, produce some wines of intrigue.
this bottle was opened this past Saturday around 7pm and I am enjoying the last glass 4 days later. it was nice Saturday but has evolved into something else entirely over the last few days.
color is stereotypical Saperavi. inky inky inky. deep core and a slightly lighter garnet rim.
the aroma is really what is standing out to me today. it's honestly reminding me of good Nebbiolo. crushed violet, pipe tobacco, tar. black cherry, blueberry pie.
palate mirrors the nose with dark fruit and a hint of spice. the acid is fresh but not sharp (sometimes an issue with this variety in this region), and the tannins are present but not dominating. they feel lush and sit primarily on top of the tongue.
really a nice little treat and an example of why Bully Hill deserves more credit than is generally afforded.
by brydels
3 Comments
this bottle was gifted to the production team where I work so I’m not sure the price. the thing that stood out to me about this bottle (after four days open) is how reminiscent of Nebbiolo it was. sometimes a bulk hybrid producer can really wow you!
I have a bottle of that one that I haven’t opened yet, but I agree regarding
Bully Hill. Ignoring the nasty blends, they make pretty solid varietal wines with good acid.
Their standard NV riesling is one of the few drinkable options for riesling in that price range in the US. The vintage riesling for ~$15 is well worth it, too.
I have not yet found another American producer who puts out as many decent <$20 bottlings as Bully Hill.
As a sidenote, it blows my mind that the PA wine buyers almost exclusively put only the nastiest of the Bully Hill wines on the shelves.
Never seen american saperavi before. I’m so curious. Great share.