I seized two opportunities to visit Virginia wineries this past Memorial Day weekend. Last Friday, I made a sudden decision to enjoy a lovely, breezy day with a tasting at Capstone Vineyards. Then, dear friends of mine invited me to join them on Sunday for tastings at Early Mountain Vineyards and Barboursville Vineyards. I seized another day and accepted the offer. However, I did have a mission in mind once my decisions were made, and that was to focus on white wines. Spring and summer weather usually demand white wines, roses, and lighter-bodied red wines, but my wine rack is running rather low on white wines. Plus, I wanted to feature white wines for my upcoming edition of The Cajun Cooks. Sudden plans were made but with a purpose in mind!
Winemaker Theo Smith at Capstone Vineyards continues to impress me. The current 2021 Sparkling Chardonnay, done in the method champenoise, was dry and crisp with notes of apple and citrus. Its refreshing finish makes it perfect for any occasion, particularly if paired with warm afternoons. The 2024 Sauvignon Blanc was likewise well crafted with citrus notes and a fuller feel on the palate. Minerality provided a polished, textured finish. Serve with cheeses, shellfish, or any white meat requiring a twist of lemon.
Sunday’s tastings began at Early Mountain Vineyards. It’s always a treat to enjoy a flight of wines in the spacious tasting room, especially when partnered with a bite from the kitchen. The 2022 Madison Chardonnay presented crisp orchard fruit and a honeyed texture. However, it was the 2022 Petit Manseng that caught my attention. I must admit a growing fondness for this grape as winemakers have learned how to balance sugar and acidity associated with Petit Manseng. This offering from Early Mountain Vineyards was well-balanced and exhibited lush pineapple and peach elements along with more subtle citrus nuances. Its broader but lively palate complemented seared halibut served with soy-glazed shiitake mushrooms, black garlic, ginger and cilantro that we ordered from the menu. Our tasting here concluded with a touching tribute to Paul, who would have celebrated his 61st birthday on May 29. With a glass of the NV Brut Rose, we toasted and fondly remembered a very special person.
A tasting at Barboursville Vineyards completed the day’s wine tasting experiences, and it was here that I savored the Governor’s Cup winning 2023 Vermentino Reserve. This Vermentino Reserve is destined to be enjoyed with summer menus while dining al fresco. Tomato salads topped with fresh herbs, scallops, chicken and pasta topped with a beurre blanc sauce, shrimp scampi tossed with fresh parsley, or a cheese plate with fresh fruit would all pair nicely with this elegant wine. It expressed notes of white blossoms, juicy pear, zesty lemon, and wet stone. A refreshing acidity made for a lively finish. I should also mention the complex 2020 Nascent, a blend of Viognier, Vermentino, and Falanghina. (Yes, Falanghina in Virginia!). This release featured a soft floral nose with flavors of ripe pear and lemon curd. It’s rich palate included a kiss of oak at the finish.
Sometimes seizing the day(s) provides rewards. These moments allowed me to taste exceptional wines, appreciate the gorgeous spring weather and landscapes that only Virginia can provide, and fondly remember the most precious person to have ever graced my charmed life.
At least one of these white wines will be featured in an upcoming video of the Cajun Cooks. What will the Cajun cook prepare, and what wines will he choose? Stay tuned. In the meantime, be certain to visit the wineries mentioned in the post. Of course, mention Virginia Wine Time sent you.