“At the Winemaker Challenge, we have judges who not only know but appreciate native grapes. They showed their appreciation for this Cynthiana — also known as Norton — by tagging it with a Platinum award. Aromas of black fruit and clay entice, and the black fruit carries the palate with good grip and notes of citrus and brown spice. One of the best wines I’ve tasted from this variety. It sounds like a road trip is in order. A Platinum Award winner at the 2018 Winemaker Challenge International Wine Competition.”
– Rich Cook | 2018 Winemaker Challenge Judge | Jan 30, 2018

“North Carolina’s Jolo Winery 2016 Pilot Fog was named Best Native American Red (the grape is Norton). I might prefer the V. Sattui 2013 Morisoli Vineyard cabernet sauvignon, the wine of the year, but the far less expensive Norton from the obscure Yadkin River Valley of North Carolina could hold its own in just about any company.”

– Robert Whitley | “Lessons From the 2018 Winemaker Challenge” | February 13, 2018

“The hybrid grape varietals wildly planted in the eastern and midwestern United States may not be well known, but the wines they produce are increasingly well made. JOLO’s blend of Vidal Blanc and Traminette from JOLO offers bright citrus and tropical aromas, is well balanced, bone dry and long on the palate. Platinum Award Winner at the 2019 Winemaker Challenge International Wine Competition.”

94 Points 
Robert Whitley – January 22, 2019