To Drink or Tannat...That is the question.

Nestled in the heart of Dobson, North Carolina, Shelton Vineyards has been a pioneer in pushing the boundaries of winemaking in the Yadkin Valley. Recently, we had the pleasure of experiencing a Tannat vertical tasting in the cozy, barrel-lined tasting room—a rare opportunity to explore four vintages of this bold and lesser-known varietal.

What Is Tannat?

Tannat is not your everyday red grape. Deep blue-black in color, it produces wines that are inky, luscious, and high in tannins—not for the faint of heart. Known for its aging potential, Tannat is often blended with varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc to create more approachable wines. But when done right, a stand-alone Tannat is a force of nature—powerful, structured, and deeply rewarding.

Shelton Vineyards was the first winery in North Carolina to cultivate Tannat, and remains one of only two in the state producing this rare varietal. Since 2009, Tannat has appeared under their signature 2:5:9 label, representing the two Shelton brothers, their five children, and nine grandchildren—a nod to family legacy and vision.

The Vertical Tasting: 2017–2020

Led by Tamara, Shelton’s lead wine ambassador, and joined by Mandy Shelton Houser, who shared touching insights into the Shelton family story, we journeyed through four vintages of Tannat—each paired perfectly with a cheese. Tannat may not be a household name, but Shelton Vineyards is putting this grape on the map, especially for those seeking something bold, unique, and cellar-worthy. From its history-rich 2:5:9 label to the dedication behind each vintage, Shelton’s Tannat lineup is a testament to innovation and family tradition in North Carolina winemaking.

If you haven’t visited Shelton Vineyards lately—or ever—it’s time to put Tannat on your tasting list.

Tasting Notes and Vintages Explored

2017 Tannat – Bold & Age-Worthy

• 100% Tannat

• A drought year concentrated the grapes’ flavors, creating a bold, structured wine with incredible aging potential (7–10 years).

• Cheese Pairing: Asiago

• Tasting Notes: Intense, muscular, yet refined—this wine showcases Tannat in its purest form.
  

2018 Tannat – Bordeaux Elegance

• 95% Tannat / 5% Malbec

• A hurricane year presented challenges, but the blend brought a classic, Bordeaux-style elegance.

• Cheese Pairing: Manchego

• Tasting Notes: Earthy and restrained, this is a wine that invites patience and exploration.
  

2019 Tannat – Jammy & Expressive

• 75% Tannat / 18% Cabernet Sauvignon / 7% Malbec

• A strong weather year contributed to a vibrant, jammy wine with hints of fig and deep berry.

• Cheese Pairing: Gruyere

• Tasting Notes: Rich, fruity, and layered—an easy favorite for fans of full-bodied reds.
  

2020 Tannat – Earthy West Coast Style

• 100% Tannat

• An outstanding vintage that recalls the success of 2017.

• Cheese Pairing: Campo

• Tasting Notes: Earth-driven with a clean finish, built to age beautifully over the next 5–7 years.

Plan Your Visit 📍 Shelton Vineyards – Dobson, NC

Let us know in the comments if you've tried a Tannat before—or better yet, visited Shelton Vineyards. We’d love to hear your impressions!