Journal | October 29, 2025
2025: A Classic Vintage
With the exception of a couple laggard barrels the 2025 wines have now finished fermenting. As anticipated, they are powerful and concentrated with fresh acidity. They are also wonderfully classic; reminiscent of some of my favorite vintages from the 1990s and early 2000s. At this stage these wines are raw, unevolved and tricky to evaluate. While aromas and flavors will change dramatically over time, a wine's texture remains fairly constant. Texture in wine is hard to explain. It refers to mouth feel, tactile sensation, weight, and harmony. But my favorite analogy is the anticipation when sinking one's teeth into an apple.
Texture is the crisp crunch of a freshly picked apple. Firm, dense and juicy. My favorite apple is now in season. Stayman apples are the epitome of texture and 2025 is classic. This week I picked up a few from the local farm market: The Giving Tree (just two miles up the road from the winery). On my trip back home, while trying to temper my expectations, I sunk my teeth into its thick skin. The truck windows were down. Radio off. The air fresh and crisp, a low bright sun, golden leaves and a perfect 100-point apple. Life doesn't get any better.
Just like wines, apples are not immune from climate change and vintage variation. 2023 and 2024 were disappointing Stayman years. The drought and the heat produced a mealy texture that made them unappetizing. In my lifetime this old apple variety was dependably perfect every year. These Appalachian hills had provided the perfect Stayman terroir. We can't be sure about future growing seasons, but right now I am very content with this year.
Linden Vineyards / Learn More / Latest at Linden | Hardscrabble Journal: October 29, 2025