Announcing the Release of 2021 RISE – An Icon of Excellence

We are thrilled to announce the release of 2021 RISE, an exceptional vintage which embodies our dedication to creating wines that can stand shoulder to shoulder with the great wines of the world. This wine is a celebration of patience, precision, and our unwavering pursuit of excellence, reflecting the heart of what we believe Virginia wines can achieve. Our Winemaker, Maya Hood White, recently nominated for Wine Enthusiast’s Winemaker of the Year award, crafted the 2021 RISE red blend using select lots from the very best of Virginia's mountainside vineyards.

An Exceptional Vintage

The weather during the 2021 vintage was outstanding, with ideal conditions that allowed our mountainside vineyards to thrive. The warm, dry days paired with cool nights provided the perfect environment to develop dark fruit characters and phenolic maturity. The result is a wine of remarkable focus, structure and complexity.

“RISE exemplifies our winemaking philosophy at Early Mountain. While similar to 2017, the 2021 season built on those learnings. We honed our farming to reflect the inherent power of our sites and capture an optimal balance of tannin development, aromatic complexity, and depth. RISE takes the very best of these mountainside sites and offers a wine that distinctively showcases Virginia.” - Maya Hood White, Winemaker 

Dynamic and dense aromas of Damson plum, wild blackberries, and cassis, elegantly layered with notes of cedar, cacao, and forest floor. The deep aromas are elevated by vibrant, fresh notes, creating a multi-layered experience that continues to evolve in the glass. This is a wine destined to age beautifully, offering enjoyment now and for literally decades to come.

2021 RISE is a blend of 58% Merlot, 17% Petit Verdot, 15% Tannat, and 10% Cabernet Franc. At its heart is the Quaker Run Vineyard Merlot, sourced from our oldest, low-vigor vines. This provides a dense, aromatic purity, while Tannat contributes to its depth and power, and Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc round out the dynamic expression.

Aging & Cellaring

Aged for 20 months in French barrels (52% new) and an additional 18 months in bottle, 2021 RISE will continue to develop complexity with time. For those looking to enjoy it now, we recommend aeration to fully unlock its rich potential. For those patient enough to cellar it, this wine will reward you for years to come.

“The 2021 vintage captures a year of exceptional quality and reflects Early Mountain’s unwavering pursuit of excellence. We are deeply grateful for your trust in RISE to mark your special moments.” – Jean Case, Owner

To our loyal RISE collectors, we are deeply grateful for the trust you have shown in us by choosing prior vintages to mark your most special moments. We hope that as you add this extraordinary 2021 vintage to your collection, it becomes a companion to your most cherished memories, enriching your celebrations today and for many years to come.

RISE 2021 is now available online and in our Tasting Room. 

Cheers!

The Early Mountain Team