Pollak Vineyards

July 8, 2022.  Pollak Vineyards is around a twenty minute drives from Stinson Vineyards on the other side of Crozet.  Pollak is a mid-sized Virginia vineyard/winery, classy but understated in its appointments.  Dick and Margo Pollak first planted in 2003, produced their first vintage in 2005, and opened their modern tasting room in 2008.  In size and quality of wine, I think of Pollak as one of Virginia's best.

There is a fireplace in the two-story tasting room for the colder months, and great views across the meadows and pond to the vineyards beyond whether sitting on the sofas inside or on the wrap-around porch as we were on that lazy Friday afternoon.  Definitely worth a re-visit in the Fall to catch the foliage.

Pollak has 35 acres under vine separated in eight plots.  The plan is to expand to 40 acres.  According to their website, they are growing nine varietals in those acres.  All of their wine is estate grown, except for an experimental Nebbiolo.  I estimate their annual output at around 2,000 cases. 

Here are our impressions:

2019 Pinot Gris.  Very light but reasonably priced.  We bought a bottle.

2019 Cabernet Franc.  Light cherry with some tannin.  Light to medium-bodied and medium acid.  The Stinson Cabernet Franc has more fruit.

2018 Merlot.  Stronger tannin and fruit.  Medium body with little finish.

2016 Meritage.  Ruby.  Full bodied and higher alcohol and balanced acid.  The 2017 version of Pollak Meritage was selected for the 2022 Virginia Governor’s Cup Case.  It was not on the tasting menu but is available at the winery for $60.00 per bottle.

2018 Petit Verdot.  Purple and full-bodied.  High tannin, plum.  Longer finish.


 

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