1723 Vineyards — Attraction in Franklin Township

A little exploratory fun in the Brandywine Wine Valley region. Beautiful little ride from PA to Delaware and back into "London-Britain Township" (PA) (with that name they must have wanted to appease the King versus revolt, ha).

As a history buff, this place called out. 1723 Vineyards was part of the original New London Township, before current day Franklin Township was split off. New London Township was chartered in 1723, hence the naming. 1723 Vineyards consist of 7 acres planted on the historic McMaster farm in Landenberg, PA, with an additional 3 acres planted on the historic Ford Farm. Fun fact, Benjamin Franklin once owned a portion of the farm, along with adjoining property during the time he served as ambassador to France.

Wine starts with terroir. They are focused on producing wines from varietals that thrive here in the mid-Atlantic region including Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscat Ottonel.

Yes, it's not as complex as faves from Walla Walla, France, or Cally but was good to slice a little local Maryland cheese and relax in the Vineyards for a flight of pours this 74 degree sunny afternoon and chat up the owner,...

I was excited to visit this new winery... and it was... fine. Unanimously we all loved the sparkling rose. Unanimously we all thought the tasting menu was uninspiring with way too many overpowering high notes. Unless you love grapefruit - in which case you'll love these wines. There is a cabernet that's drinkable as well.

And because I'm dedicated to finding something positive about every venue... the handsoap in the ladies room will make you wanna steal! Sadly, that was the highlight. Drats! So disappointed.

That said, the staff was lively and there are lawn games to distract you. So...

My girlfriend and I just left after our wine and chocolate tasting and have been talking about our awesome experience since we got in the car. The staff was very personable and extremely attentive. We were there a good half hour before anyone else and the staff must us feel like family. If the anyone from the 1723 staff is reading this review, we were sitting in the corner watching everyone else and one of us was from New Jersey. Lol. Great job we...