Christian W. Klay Winery Photo Courtesy: Christian W. Klay Winery
I had the pleasure to drink several Christian W. Klay wines at a friend’s wedding reception that was held very near the Klay winery’s home in Chalk Hill,Pa. I enjoyed their Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, both displayed good structure and a medium body that paired well with my steak dinner. The Chardonnay I tried didn’t impress me as much as the Cab and Merlot. When I asked my wife for her opinion on the White Zinfandel she gave me a favorable comment saying it was pleasing and easy to drink. The Christian W. Klay winery has been a mainstay of the wine industry in Western Pennsylvania since opening in Fayette county in 1997 and has always raised the quality of their wines with every vintage. These wines, as well as the wines of many other W.Pa. wineries, continue to improve every year and I look forward to the offerings that will come from the superb 2013 vintage. www.cwklaywinery.com
wpawinepirate 
Although I can appreciate all the work and beauty of this winery, I can honestly say they do not have one wine that I would buy or drink. We went to the Chili cook off just a month ago held at the winery and tasted some great food, and listened to Harold Betters play for the afternoon. The wine tasting was disappointing and we did not make a purchase, Just my opinion.
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I respect your opinion and understand exactly what you are saying. I believe the Western Pennsylvania wine industry is at the same stage as the Finger Lakes region was at 10 or 15 years ago. They don’t have the stunning beautiful lakes to define their identity, so it will be interesting to see how they carve out an unique identity for themselves. Also the improving quality of vineyards in W.Pa. will also play a key role in their evolution.
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Thanks for this post! You know, I have been to the Chalk Hill area a couple of times, but never went to any wineries. It’s a lovely area. There is a resort just down the road, too, called Nemacolin. Also, the well known Frank Lloyd Wright house “Falling Water” is pretty close. That’s why I was in the neighborhood. Next trip, I’ll have to build in some wine tasting time!
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I agree that the Laurel Highlands is a truly beautiful area with plenty of interesting activities to enjoy. If you do get to visit some wineries there I would suggest C.W.Klay, Glade Pike, Greendance, Greenhouse, and Ripepi. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this post and your comments are always welcome.
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Appreciate the recommendations!
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