From Vine to Bottle: The Creation Stories of "Helen's Rose" and "Wagon Road" Wines

At Bullhouse Winery, every bottle of wine we craft carries a unique story, a testament to our commitment to quality and the artistry of winemaking. Today, I'm excited to share with you the creation stories behind two of our beloved wines: "Helen's Rose" and "Wagon Road."

Helen's Rose: A Tribute in Every Sip

The story of "Helen's Rose" begins with a memory and a dedication. Helen was a cherished member of our community, known for her vibrant spirit and love of gardening, especially her roses. After her passing, we wanted to honor her legacy in a way that captured her essence. Thus, the idea of "Helen's Rose" was born—a rosé that would reflect the beauty and vibrancy of Helen's life.

The process started in early spring, selecting the perfect blend of red and white grapes from our vineyard, chosen for their ability to embody a delicate yet robust flavor profile. The grapes were harvested at dawn to preserve their freshness and then gently pressed to extract their vibrant color and subtle flavors, mirroring the hues of Helen’s rose garden at sunrise.

Fermentation was carefully monitored to ensure the wine retained its delicate floral notes, a nod to Helen's love for her garden. The result was a rosé that not only tasted exquisite but also carried the essence of Helen’s spirit—bright, refreshing, and full of life.

Wagon Road: A Journey of Flavor

"Wagon Road," on the other hand, tells a story of adventure and the rugged paths that define our region. Named after the historic wagon trails that run through our property, this wine is a tribute to the journey of the early settlers who first cultivated the lands of Northern Baltimore County.

Creating "Wagon Road" involved selecting the best Cabernet Franc grapes, known for their bold and rustic flavors, which mirror the tough, enduring nature of the old trails. These grapes were allowed to ripen fully on the vine, soaking up the sun’s warmth to develop a rich, deep flavor profile.

The winemaking process for "Wagon Road" was marked by a commitment to capture the terroir's unique character. The grapes underwent an extended maceration period to deepen the wine's complexity and structure, ensuring that each sip offered a robust and hearty flavor reminiscent of the earthy, wooded paths of the wagon trails.

After aging in oak barrels to integrate the flavors and soften the tannins, "Wagon Road" emerged as a wine that embodies the spirit of exploration and endurance. Its rich, peppery flavors and aromatic complexity invite wine lovers to journey through the history and natural beauty of our land.

Celebrating Our Creations

"Helen's Rose" and "Wagon Road" are more than just wines; they are narratives bottled up, ready to be shared and savored. Each bottle captures a piece of our winery’s soul and the land’s history, offering not just a taste but an experience.

We invite you to visit Bullhouse Winery, where these wines and their stories can be fully appreciated. Whether you're reflecting on the floral elegance of "Helen's Rose" or exploring the bold depths of "Wagon Road," you're partaking in more than just a tasting—you're experiencing the legacy and lore of Bullhouse Winery.