Author: Warren

New Beginnings At Philip Carter

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We recently posted about the rebirth taking place at Loudoun Valley Vineyards, and yet another renaissance is occurring at Philip Carter Winery of Virginia. Philip Carter Winery was once known as Stillhouse Winery, but Philip Carter Strother bought Stillhouse Winery last year. Stillhouse Winery’s vineyards and wines had been in decline for quite some time, but Strother was determined to improve both the condition of the vineyards and the quality of the wines. He invited us out to his barrel tasting held on April 18, and we eagerly accepted the invitation.

The first thing we noticed when we drove up to the winery was the renewed condition of the vineyards. Tall weeds were gone, vines were pruned and healthy, and we sensed that a positive change had occurred since the change of ownership. We were greeted by Philip Carter Strother who proudly declared that all wines now in the barrel were the first true Philip Carter wines— from the vineyards to the barrels. We were then led down to the barrel room, and our tasting was conducted by current winemaker, Seth Chambers. Seth started us with two barrel samples of 2008 Chardonnay; the first sample was from neutral oak barrels and the second from new oak barrels. The first sample seemed riper and fruitier than the second sample which presented the classic buttery texture of a Burgundy-style white wine. Seth informed us that he intended to blend the two to produce a Chardonnay that is indeed similar to a white Burgundy. I must say that I really enjoyed the second sample on its own; however, Paul preferred the first sample. I concluded that the blend will then appeal to both of us and that we would have to return to purchase a bottle upon its release! We also sampled a still-young and developing Vidal Blanc. Done in stainless steel, this one should settle into the fruity sipper that Virginia wine lovers enjoy in warm weather.

Up next were the red barrel sample, and up first was the 2008 Cabernet Franc. Seth provided some background about the 2008 crop of Cabernet Franc, and he explained that the crop did survive a weather scare that occurred late in the summer. Unexpected rains threatened to dilute the fruit quality including brix levels to undesirable levels; however, a decision was made to let the fruit hang for as long as possible anyway, and the fruit was not harmed by weather events. Seth was proud of the result and justifiably so, and in fact, 2008 Cabernet Franc earned my gold star of the day. I noted characteristics of dark berries and pepper with vanilla on finish; Paul admired its dark garnet color, too. Paul seemed to prefer the blended version of the Cabernet Franc which included Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon, and he found it to be more rounded and structured. No arguments from me—it was quite good. The 2008 Cabernet Franc will be released in the fall.

Meritage fans will want to sample the release of the 2008 Meritage blend which will include Cabernet Franc (85%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (15%). Still evolving, this sample presented a fruity nose with lots of plums and dark cherries. I should mention that the 2008 Meritage will not be released until next year, so tasters will have to be patient. Available now, though, is the newly released 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, and this was the last of our samples offered in the barrel room. Rich cherry flavors with some spice were noted with this still young wine.

Our barrel tasting was now complete, and we easily concurred that Philip Carter Winery’s upcoming releases will present an impressive lineup of wines in the tasting room. This, of course, is due to the improved management of the vineyards and winemaking by Seth Chambers who learned the art of winemaking at Pearmund Cellars. We were guided upstairs to the tasting room by Philip Carter Strothers who personally gave us a tasting of current releases. This gave us a chance to chat with Philip about his goals and aspirations for Philip Carter Winery. What did we learn? Stay tuned for next week’s post to find out. Until then, pay a visit to Philip Carter Winery of Virginia and mention that Virginia Wine Time sent you.

Excellence at King Family

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Our recent visit to the Charlottesville area included a tasting at King Family Vineyards. In fact, the tasting room manager, Tracey Grimm, invited us over for a tasting, and of course, we accepted the offer. When we arrived at the tasting room, we were greeted by sounds of saws and hammers, and we quickly discovered that the tasting room was under renovation. However, King Family had created a makeshift tasting area in the barrel room complete with the current lineup of King Family wines. Tracey warmly greeted us and before we knew it we were tasting away!


We’ve always been impressed by the wines at King Family Vineyards, and the current offerings continue to prove our claim that King Family Vineyards produce some of the best wines around.The quality winemaking at King Family Vineyards is attributed to the talented and experienced winemaker, Mathieu Finot. A native of Crozet Hermitage of the Rhone Valley in France, Mathieu Finot leads the pack of Virginia winemakers who currently make some of the state’s best wines.

We travel with only a few gold stars in our pockets, so we really had to anguish over our decisions since any of the wines that we sampled could have earned the coveted awards. Of the white wines, our award went to the 2007 Viognier which is done mostly in stainless steel with some minimal time in oak barrels. A lush honeysuckle nose with notes of peaches and melon won me over, and a mouthful of citrus flavors with a nice honeyed texture confirmed my vote. However, my (close) second place favorite was the 2007 Roseland which is a perfect blend of Chardonnay and Viognier. Nice lemony and floral nose here with white stone fruit in the mouth makes for a lovely springtime and summertime pour.


Of the red wines, we did differ on opinions. Paul’s gold star was awarded to the 2006 Merlot with its dark fruit characteristics and firm tannins. “Steak wine” was Paul’s summary, and I did concur with this decision. My own favorite was the 2006 Meritage with aromas of dark cherry, black pepper and violets; I noted flavors of dark cherry and spice with mocha on the finish and a nice acidity. This Meritage is a blend of Merlot (60%), Cabernet Franc (20%) and Petit Verdot (20%) and should only get better with age. Also in contention was the smoky 2007 Cabernet Franc which is yet another award winner for King Family Vineyards. We were treated to a sneak sample of this limited production, and it possesses plum and spicy characteristics with a lengthier finish. Paul gave this one his “close second” award!

On the lookout for summer wines? It’s never too early at this time of the year, so do not overlook the 2008 Crose, a Provence style rose that is very dry and produced from Merlot grapes. Strawberry and melons here and perfect for summer picnics, barbeques or by itself on the deck with friends! This one does sell quickly (as we found out last summer) so stock up now!

Tracy did give us a tour of the renovations that promise to provide a new and improved tasting room, and we also got to survey the Carriage House which is adjacent to the tasting room. This impressive space includes a fireplace that would make Henry VIII envious and can accommodate weddings, private parties and other special events. Of course, King Family wines are the main feature at all events! The featured event at King Family Vineyards continues to be polo, and details about upcoming polo matches can be found at www.roselandpolo.com.


So we enjoyed a glass of the 2006 Meritage as we gazed upon the polo/equestrian field. It was a drizzly afternoon, but we did enjoy the Meritage with a block of Gruyere cheese and baguette. Needless to say, several bottles were purchased to enjoy at a later date, and we bid our farewells to Tracey and thanked her for the tasting and tour. We’ll be back very soon, but readers should visit even sooner—please mention that Virginia Wine Time sent you.

Wine Tasting With Claude DelFosse

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We recently received an invitation by Claude DelFosse of DelFosse Vineyards to visit his tasting room for a tasting and conversation (about wine, of course). Needless to say, we accepted the offer and met with Claude to sample his impressive lineup of wines. We also took advantage of the opportunity to tour the grounds and along the way enjoyed lovely springtime sights and sounds.


We met Claude and his wife, Genevieve, on a bright but still chilly afternoon a week ago Monday at DelFosse Vineyards. While Claude wrapped up a previous business meeting in the tasting room, Genevieve started our tasting which included the full complement of white and red wines. In the process, we learned that Genevieve is also a school teacher and teaches French and Spanish in Fairfax County! We all began to relate to grading papers, antsy kids, spring break, and wine! Anyway, Genevieve started us off with the 2007 Pinot Gris, a simple yet refreshing wine with honey and citrus flavors—quite a nice way to begin our tasting and a perfect wine for spring and summer.


From there, Claude continued our tasting which included several more white wines. Paul became an immediate fan of the 2008 Sauvignon Blanc with its notes of citrus and hay partnered with crisp grapefruit flavors. However, I held my own gold star until further into the tasting and could not resist with a sip of the 2007 Reserve d’Oriane. I’ve written glowing reviews about the 2005 Reserve d’ Oriane, and I continue to be impressed by this blend which includes Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Petit Manseng, and Viognier. Chardonnay makes up most of the blend; however, the aging of this one is quite unique as the component parts of the Reserve d’Oriane are aged differently. The Chardonnay is aged in French oak barrels; the Sauvignon Blanc, in neutral oak, and the Petit Manseng and Viognier in stainless steel tanks. The result is an olfactory delight of pineapple and lemons with similar flavors in the mouth and a crisp finish. Look no further for a perfect a partner with crabcakes! My close second was the 2006 Chardonnay Reserve with its toasty notes; pear and hazelnut flavors made for a rich, fuller-bodied wine destined for any shellfish or poultry dish with a rich sauce. Paul shies away from big Chardonnays but he did enjoy the aromatic, stainless-steel aged 2007 Viognier Reserve with its peachy and mineral characteristics.


So on to the reds! There were a number of these to taste as well, and those who are on the prowl for a crowd pleaser should certainly try the Chambourcin-based 2006 Cuvee Laurent, a fruity red wine that should prove versatile with any food pairing while enticing the most timid of red wine drinkers. My own favorite, however, was the 2006 Cabernet Franc with its mixed berry nose and spicy finish. I closed my eyes and envisioned steaks on the grill with this one—make mine medium rare! Paul placed his own star next to the 2006 Merlot. He observed cherry and cedar notes and appreciated its silky finish despite the bigger tannins. The 2006 Merlot is one to cellar and enjoy with a robust beef dish. We were also given a sneak preview of the upcoming release of Petit Verdot—inky, plummy, spicy, and sinful!! We look forward to sampling (and purchasing) this one on our next visit.


In the midst of our swirling, sniffing, and savoring, Claude revealed to us that though DelFosse Vineyards is only four years old, wine has been a passion of his for many years. Though a native of Paris, France and previous resident of California, he decided to make wine in Virginia. Why Virginia? “It was in a fit of absolute craziness!” Claude joked. Like many others, Claude saw the potential in Virginia wine country. Claude’s 22 acres of vineyards are located in some of the highest elevations in the Charlottesville area, and he has benefitted from expert winemaking at first by Michael Shaps and now by Paul Mierzejewski. Claude also has a passion for connecting people with wine; though wine comes first, Claude and Genevieve enjoy hosting weddings at the vineyards and see these events as ways to bridge special events, gourmet foods, and fine wines. And Claude likes to boast that DelFosse Vineyards is also green—the facility itself is a green facility, and he uses sustainable practices in the vineyards. And of course, wines do come first at DelFosse Vineyards. In addition to earning numerous awards, DelFosse Vineyards was one of ten Virginia wineries selected to present its wines in an international showing to be held in London this May. And what will Claude present? The Reserve D’Oriane, of course!


With tasting completed, we were able to drive up to the old tasting room which is a cozy log cabin. The porch is still available for use, and inviting rocking chairs beckon for visitors to relax and enjoy gorgeous mountain views. With flowers fresh in bloom, it was futile to resist. Paul took the opportunity to snap photos, too! We know that we will return to DelFosse Vineyards soon, but readers may want to visit even sooner—just be certain to mention that Virginia Wine Time sent you!

Sweely Estate Winery

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On a recent trip to Charlottesville we planned a stop at Sweely Estate Winery. Previously known as Acorn Hill, Sweely Estate is not just a tasting room but an entire hospitality center for events of all kinds. The 16,000 sq. ft. center includes a tasting room, retail boutique, art gallery, culinary center, wine library and barrel room, and a large space for large events. The building is impressive. The estate sits on more than 300 acres of land with 40 acres in vine.


We made our way to the tasting bar and were lucky to be the only ones there for a tasting. Our tasting associate walked us through the list of wines available for tasting. We tasted six whites and four reds. Most of the whites and some of the reds are fermented in stainless-steel. Those that are oak aged spend time in French oak barrels. White wine drinkers, like sometimes guest blogger Michael Tyler, might enjoy the Wolftown White Blend 2007. It’s a semi-sweet blend of chardonnay and vidal blanc with a nice floral nose. After tasting the wines and asking many questions of our tasting associate, we decided on a glass of the 1867 Meritage 2006.


With glass in hand and notebook ready we headed to the patio to enjoy the views and the 1867 Meritage 2006. This wine is named after the old barn on the property that was built in 1867. It’s a blend of 75% merlot and 25% cabernet franc. It spends 12 months in new French oak barrels. We noted blackberry and black cherry on nose. In the mouth we were treated to blackberry and black cherry with a spicy edge and a long finish. Warren noted the color as dark garnet. This one would pair well with a thick steak.


After enjoying the 1867 Meritage 2006, we walked around the hospitality center to see the art gallery and all the amenities…all quite spectacular. Be sure to plan to stop at Sweely Estate Winery the next time you find yourself headed toward Charlottesville. And be sure to tell them Virginia Wine Time sent you!

Faves at Three Fox and Miracle Valley

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So as promised here is our review of favorites at Three Fox Vineyards and Miracle Valley Vineyards. These were wineries that we visited two weekends ago, but I got sidetracked in my postings. Of course, I took careful notes complete with gold star awards!


First up was our visit to Three Fox Vineyards, and we began our tasting with the white wines, of course. The first wine, the 2007 Leggero Chardonnay, was my gold star award for the white wines. Done in stainless steel, this Chardonnay exhibited apple and pear characteristics with a crisp, refreshing finish. This Chardonnay promises to be a crowd pleaser and is a versatile pour to boot. Serve with appetizers, light poultry dishes or white fish, bring along to a picnic, or enjoy on the deck with cheese and fruit. Paul went boheme on me and voted for the 2008 La Boheme Viognier. He appreciated its tropical fruit notes and flavors and noted a crisp edge associated with stainless steel aging.

Of the reds, we both gold starred the 2007 Alouette Cabernet Franc. I observed more a layered wine here with black berries, dark cherries, and coffee on the nose; in the mouth, similar characteristics with a toffee on a lengthier finish. The 2007 Alouette Cabernet Franc is one to age, so buy now but save for later with a feast of roasted beef or game. So enamored were we of the 2007 Cabernet Franc that we opted to share a glass with a hunk of mild Swiss cheese and crackers.


With snack digested and a bottle each of the Leggero Chardonnay and the Alouette Cabernet Franc purchased for future enjoyment, we made tracks on what was becoming a rainy day to Miracle Valley Vineyards. As we entered the tasting room, we heard strains of live music as a guitarist serenaded guests. We made a quick friendship with tasting associate, Ashley, who expertly guided us through the tasting menu. In fact, my gold star was awarded to the wine described by Ashley as “liquid art”, and that was the 2007 Cabernet Franc. And liquid art did indeed present itself in the glass. Dark plum, dried herbs and spice filled the nose while waves of dark plums and cherries flooded the mouth . Completing the exhibit was a vibrant acidity and peppery edge that commanded a lengthier finish. This piece of art does indeed expect to be appreciated for quite a while.

So what of the whites? An interesting treatment of Chardonnay was offered with the 2007 Reserve Chardonnay which was aged for six months in Hungarian oak. Oak aged Chardonnay usually spends time in French and/or American oak barrels; however, this is not the case at Miracle Valley Vineyards. The result is a fruitier Chardonnay with some citrus notes and apple and pear flavors. The short time on the gentler Hungarian oak does impart a slight toasty edge, but Paul noted a smooth finish.


As our tasting came to a close, we realized that the light drizzle that accompanied our short trip to Miracle Valley became a steadier rain shower. Not wanting to get all wet, we had no choice but to share a glass of the 2007 Cabernet Franc with the complementary snacks offered for the afternoon at Miracle Valley. What better way to spend a springtime shower than with a glass of nice wine and light snacks with soft folk tunes playing in the background!

Alas, the rain did let up, and we were able to depart Miracle Valley Vineyards. We bid our farewells to Ashley, and we promised to return soon. In the meantime, we do encourage a visit to both Three Fox Vineyards and Miracle Valley Vineyards; just be sure to mention that Virginia Wine Time sent you!

Gray Ghost Barrel Tasting

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So I promised a post about our visits to Three Fox and Miracle Valley, but I’m taking a detour to write about our recent visit to the barrel tasting at Gray Ghost Vineyards. (However, do look for our reviews of Three Fox and Miracle Valley on our next post!)

We look forward to this barrel tasting every year as one of the barrel samples is taken from the developing Chardonnay; Paul and I harvest Chardonnay every year at Gray Ghost, and this is our opportunity to witness the vine to barrel to bottle process. Our barrel sample of the 2008 Chardonnay presented enticing aromas and flavors of apples and pears, and we were pleased to find out that this one will be bottled in late spring.

From the Chardonnay barrel we sauntered over to the 2008 Cabernet Franc barrel. Paul was already eyeing the Merlot barrel, but this barrel tasting was very well organized with numbered stations so Paul had to wait a bit longer. Anyway, the 2008 Cabernet Franc had been in the barrel for six months and was showing black pepper and cherry on the nose with similar flavors in the mouth. Similar to a Cabernet Franc from the Loire region of France, this Cabernet Franc was already showing potential.


With our Franc sample done, Paul could no longer be restrained and we made haste to the Merlot barrel. The 2008 Merlot was actually prepared from grapes grown in a Leesburg vineyard; we were told that this vineyard escaped a summertime hail storm that had damaged grape cluster at several vineyards. This indeed was a fortunate piece of luck, and Paul wasted no time placing his gold star next to the 2008 Merlot sample. Aged in French oak barrels, this Merlot presented big cherry characteristics; tannins were a bit “chewy”, but these will soften over time. Merlot fans should look for a mid to late summer release of the 2008 Merlot from Gray Ghost Vineyards. (Guess who will be first in line to purchase a bottle?)


I was more anxious to try the Cabernet Sauvignon. Samples here were pulled from three stations—the 2008 American oak barrel, the 2007 American oak barrel, and the 2007 French oak barrel. Differences here could be observed due to age and type of barrel. The 2008 sample was certainly young yet exhibited juicy cherries and a bit of earthiness with the same chewy tannins. However, the 2008 American oak sample displayed a more mellow smokiness with dark plum flavors; I detected a whiff of violets, but Paul thought I was nuts. I jotted down “violets” anyway. Tannins certainly softened quite a bit, too. The ultimate sensory experience, though, was indeed the 2007 French oak sample. Dark fruit characteristics noted here with silky tannins. “Lush” and “decadent” were adjectives that we agreed upon. As an extra treat, we were able to blend the 2007 American and French Oak sample, and “smoke meets silk” was our assessment. Layers of dark berries and plums were complimented by a nice acidity and lengthy finish. Guiding us through the blending process was winemaker Al Kellert who revealed to us that the final blend for the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon will indeed be blend of both the French and American aged Cabernets with the French-aged portion dominating the mix.

An incentive to attending the barrel tasting at Gray Ghost Vineyards was the opportunity to reserve favored samples in the future program. Tasters were given the opportunity to reserve favorites by the case at a substantial saving per bottle. Needless to say, Paul has already reserved his case of Merlot, and I opted to stake a claim to one case of the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon.

With our barrel tasting done, we bid adieu to Gray Ghost Vineyards. Before we left, we made certain to try the newly released 2008 Riesling and the 2008 Vidal Blanc. Both should be popular summer pours, so be sure to visit soon to give these a try. Of course, be sure to mention that Virginia Wine Time sent you.

Barrel Tasting at Barrel Oak

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Brian and Sharon Roeder of Barrel Oak Winery invited us to sample sneak previews of the bottled 07 and 08 reds, that were still in the barrel. Also on display were the the 08 whites. This was a special event for wine bloggers and barrel owners, and we felt privileged to be able to attend. The event was attended by more than 80 people and everyone enjoyed complimentary sips from barrel and bottle.


We started with the Bowhaus White, and guests were greeted with a taste of this crisp white. With its refreshing minerality and citrusy flavors, it was with little wonder that the Bowhaus White was an immediate crowd favorite.

After sipping and mingling, the gathering was then guided through samples of 08 whites and reds as well as 07 reds currently in the bottle. Of the future whites, we sampled the 2008 Traminette, 2008 Stainless Steel Chardonnay, 2008 Barrel Select Chardonnay and the 2008 Viognier. We both placed a gold star next to the 2008 Traminette. We noted grapefruit and stone fruit on the nose, and apricot and spice in the mouth, and we both predicted that this one is destined to become a holiday favorite this fall. Lovers of bolder Chardonnays should look for the 2008 Barrel Select Chardonnay to be bottled in June.


Of the reds, we sampled the 2008 Cabernet Franc, 2008 Merlot, 2008 Norton, 2007 Merlot and the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon. Our gold star was awarded to the 2007 Merlot which was bottled last July. We noted a nice big cherry nose with a bit of coffee on the finish; it lingered in the mouth for a longer period of time, and it should be a favorite with a steak dinner. The most promising of the 2008 reds that we sampled was the Cabernet Franc with its raspberry and dried herb characteristics.


After the barrel tasting we each decided to enjoy a glass of wine while blogging in the loft. Warren favored the crisp 2007 Seyval Blanc with its lemony nose and flavors, vibrant minerality, and refeshing acidity. Paul enjoyed the 2005 Merlot with its cherry vanilla nose, cherry and dried herbs in the mouth, and toffee on the finish. It was a great day and we want to Thank Brian and Sharon for inviting us. Thank you!

Divine

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That is the only word that could be used to describe the 2006 Viognier de Rosine. Honeysuckle in the bottle; apricot delight, or nectar of the gods might be other apt descriptors. Do seek out this stellar wine from the Rhone region of France. Produced from Viognier grown on the tiny estate in Ampuis, this Viognier is a knock out. I tasted it at Pearsons in Georgetown,and I fell in love. I was seduced by a honeysuckle nose and a whiff of seashells, although Paul thinks I’m nuts with the seashells. Anyway, a lovely blend of apricots and honey filled the mouth, and a soothing acidity completed the sensual experience. In fact, if a romantic evening with a significant other calls for a special wine then this might be the clincher. Serve with a poultry or seafood dish, add some candles, and dim the lights!

This special wine is not cheap—I bought this one at a discount, and it cost me $36. However, it’s worth every penny. So, go to your favorite wine shop and ask for the 2006 Viognier de Rosine; mention this review on Virginia Wine Time!

Time To Drink Naked

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Well, we kept our clothes on, but at Naked Mountain winter season is lasagna and wine time.  We look forward to the sausage lasagna with garlic bread served up at Naked Mountain, and of course, we also look forward to sampling current offerings on the wine menu.


Paul and I both agreed that the 2005 Barrel Select Chardonnay was the gold star white wine.  Pears and honey on the nose and a creamy texture makes this one a classic.  We were more interested in the red wines since we already knew that lasagna was on the lunch menu.  In a rare moment, we again both agreed that the 2005 Cabernet Franc was the best red wine.  Dark cherries and spice on the nose gave way to similar flavors in the mouth with a smoky finish.  Small portions of Merlot, Tannat, and Petit Verdot are blended into this lush Cabernet Franc.
 
For those who are tired of winter’s chill and promises of snow that never seems to fall, the 2008 Cabernet Franc rose may bring summer closer to home.  Strawberry characteristics abound here with a nice tart finish that conjured images of summer concerts, picnics, and barbeques!


Feeling the cabin fever this winter? Get out to Naked Mountain and enjoy lasagna and wine; of course, mention that Virginia Wine Time sent you.

Virginia Wine Showcase

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This past weekend we attended the Virginia Wine Showcase held at the Dulles Expo Center. While more established wineries were represented at the Showcase, our intent was to sample wines either from newer Virginia wineries or from more distant wineries that are difficult for us to visit. Included at the Showcase were other venders that offered food, arts and crafts. (However, our focus was wine!)


We made a quick scan of the expo and then began to settle on wineries stations to visit. Our first visit was to newbie Rosemont Vineyard and Winery located in LaCrosse, and this was also the most promising of the newer wineries represented at the event. In fact, Rosemont’s tasting room officially opened in November. Winemaker Justin Rosemont has been bottling some excellent wines. Rosemont’s crisp Traminette with its notes of peach and spice compared favorably to a Gewurztraminer, and it earned my gold star for best white wine on the menu. Of the reds, my own favorite was the 06 Cabernet Sauvignon with its dark cherry and plum characteristics. Eighteen months on French oak provides both body and longevity. Paul was torn between the 06 Merlot (0f course) and the Cabernet Franc. When pressed for a decision, he declared the Cabernet Franc to be his winner. “Cherry” and “pepper” were characteristics that Paul noted with this one. Paul also thought that the finish was lengthier yet “silky”. For those looking for a lighter red wine, then Paul suggests the 06 Merlot as an option. Justin Rosemont did chat with us, and we learned that he was trained in California; his return to Virginia was to continue a 150-year family history of farming. We think Justin is off to a great start. We also noticed that he is not afraid to think outside of the box, and his dessert wines prove the point. Rosemont’s LaCrosse, produced from LaCrosse grape, has quickly become a signature wine. LaCrosse is a hybrid from the seyval blanc family and is slightly sweet. For those wanting to sample wine made from a real North American native, try Blackridge Red made from the Catawba grape. Packed with a grapey nose and bright berry flavors, this dessert wine should be quite popular with a favorite Southern dessert.


Another first sample for us was White Fences. This vineyard and winery is located in the Northern Neck of Virginia; these wines tended to be lighter-bodied. The Meteor Bright White with its floral nose and pineapple flavors was slightly sweet and was best appreciated with the spicy peanuts provided by the tasting associate. A unique offering was the Meteor Midnight Red. This dessert wine is made from chambourcin grapes and presents intense blackberry flavors with a touch of sweetness.


We were pleased to pay another visit to the New Kent tasting station. Paul sampled the Merlot and declared it to be a Chianti-style, lighter bodied red wine. The Chardonnay Reserve, my own favorite from the last Showcase, was sold out; however, I did appreciate the unique and versatile White Norton with its strawberry nose. New Kent’s spacious tasting room and facility is still relatively new, and we briefly chatted with managing partner Pete Johns. Pete filled us in on New Kent’s successes with the Chardonnay Reserve, Vidal Blanc, and White Norton qualifying as the winery’s top sellers.


Readers may recall our favorable impressions of Sugarleaf Vineyards. Needless to say, when we caught sight of Lauren Taylor at the tasting booth, we knew that we had to say hello. We also opted for a tasting of Sugarleaf’s quality wines. Be sure to try both the 07 Vidal Blanc and the excellent 07 Petit Manseng; however, my own favorite remains the 06 Cabernet Sauvignon. A full-bodied offering packed with dark fruit characteristics, this one is an age-worthy keeper.


Fruit wine lovers should enjoy Bright Meadows Farm Vineyard. Though in operation since 2001, we had never visited the winery, and we did not neglect a chance to sample their fruit wines. The Halifax Red presents yet another true Native American grape, the Concord grape. Dry and bold, there is no doubt that this one is indeed King Concord. Paul enjoyed the Apple wine made from a blend of apples that provided an array of apple characteristics.

So what other wines made our all-star list? From Rebec Vineyard, we preferred the Riesling. Davis Valley Winery presented a blend of hybrids (chardonnel, vidal blanc, and seyval blanc) in its White that should prove to be a crowd pleaser for the summer time. We’ve reviewed Cooper Vineyards’ Norton, and the 2006 Norton is still one of my favorite Virginia Nortons. And finally, Cabernet Franc lovers may want to try the current offering by First Colony.

And so ended our trip to the winter edition of the Virginia Wine Showcase. For the record, we do pick and choose what to taste and how much to taste. For those who wish to navigate these events without getting inebriated, remember that you do not have to taste everything on the tasting menus. For example, I do not like sweet wines and do not taste them. Paul avoids most Chardonnays, and we both say “no thanks” to so-called hot tub wines. Also, do not be afraid to dump into the buckets even if you enjoy the wines you are tasting. Tasting portions do tend to be quite minimal, but if an associate is pouring too much into your glass then speak up! Finally, drink lots of water and be sure to eat. (Your palate will tell you when you’ve sampled too much wine—when Merlot tastes like Chardonnay, it’s time to call it quits.)

Be sure to visit any or all of the wineries featured here, but be sure to mention that Virginia Wine Time sent you.