Easley's 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Limited Reserve Release

Meredith and Mark Easley, owners of Easley Winery.

Winemaker Jeff Martin guiding a tour through the fermentation room.

Guests gathered in the Arbor Room for a picture before dinner began. Joan Easley, seated in the center, founded the winery in 1974 with Jack Easley who played lead roles in passing the Small Winery Act of 1971. This change in Indiana law allowed wineries to sell directly to the public.

Easley Winery celebrated their newest release, a 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Limited Reserve ($24.75), a few weeks ago during a winemaker’s dinner. Only seventy cases were crafted. This will be the fifth time Easley has released a Reserve, but it is the first winemaker's dinner.

Owners Mark and Meredith Easley, along with winemaker Jeff Martin, invited members of the Case Club as well as leaders in the local wine industry to this premiere event. Stories regarding winery history and winemaking techniques were discussed during the dinner.

Dinner was preceded by Champagne, then three courses being served, followed by a dessert of fruit and ice wine. Other Easley wines were served during the meal. Live music was also provided during the meal. After dinner, a tour of the winery was conducted by Martin, and guests were able to barrel taste the 2007 Governor's Chardonnay currently aging in French oak barrels.

As for the wine itself, it is described as medium bodied, with a smoky nose followed by subtle floral aromas. The palette repeats these flavors, followed by notes of blackberry, pepper, and nuts. The wine is a blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Chancellor Noir harvested from Posey County, near the Ohio River.

The richness of the flavor is due to the wine being barrel-aged in American oak for 10 months. The barrels were grown in English, Indiana, and coopered in Kentucky.

Drink between now and 2017.

Meredith indicated this dinner was a way to reward their most loyal customers as well as listen to feedback they have about the wines. Meredith said, "If they love it, we know we have a hit." She also indicated plans to make the dinner an annual event.

In order to become a member of the Case Club, one merely has to purchase a case of wine (at once or over several visits) from the winery. You will then be added to this preferred customer list, allowing you to receive special notices regarding special events, sales, and new releases.