After an extended hot summer season, Fall has finally arrived, and we eagerly hit the wine trail to sample new releases and old favorites at local wineries. This past weekend, we focused on wineries located in the Middleburg area: Piedmont Vineyards and Winery and Swedenburg Estate Vineyard.

We began our day with a visit to Piedmont Vineyards and Winery. Readers may remember that Piedmont is a favorite of our friend, Michael Tyler, who graciously provided his expert commentary for our previous write up about Piedmont. His pick of the day that time was the Little River Rose; however, this spring/summer favorite is currently sold out. A newer offering; though, is the 2006 Hunt Country Red. We thought of Michael as we sample this supple red as it suits his palate quite well. The 2006 Hunt Country Red is a blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon and can best be described as a fruit-forward sipper, and it can also be paired with a variety of foods especially with holiday seasons quickly approaching. (Herbed poultry with cranberries seem like a natural partnering.) For those who do not like tannic red wines, the stainless-steel aged 2006 Hunt Country Red presents a pleasing alternative. In fact, we reminded ourselves that lunch was waiting in the trunk, an d we noted that the Hunt Country Red might be an option!

However, other selection on the tasting menu presented themselves. Lunch for us included herbed pork tenderloin, Swiss cheese, red grapes, and French bread. White wines are always a pairing idea with pork, and the 2006 Hunt Country Chardonnay was an idea. Pear aromas and flavors prevailed here with some oak aging to provide structure and body. We continued down the tasting sheet, and Paul became excited with Merlot as a possibility—Paul loves Merlot, in case readers have forgotten. Anyway, the 2004 Merlot quickly became an option for Mr. Merlot. Dark garnet in color, cherry and subtle spice notes gave way to dark cherry/fruit flavors in the mouth. Given the garlic and generous herb coating that seasoned the pork, Warren had to admit that the 2004 Merlot was a contender for a lunch rendezvous. As we tasted away, we were also able to catch up with John Fitter, winemaker, and Gerhard von Finck, owner of Piedmont Vineyards and Winery. They were very pleased with the 2007 crop espec ially the Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, and they are confident that 2007 Virginia reds will be memorable.

So what did we select for lunch? The 2004 Merlot was the selection of the day. We sat on the patio and enjoyed the afternoon’s vittles while taking in vineyard landscapes, crisp breezes, and blue, sunny skies. As we sipped and nibbled, we received a visit from Anabel, the winery dog, who was a very sweet and gracious guest at our table. While Anabel did not ask for a sip of Merlot, she did help herself to some French bread; she then thanked us for food, conversation, and hugs and made her way into the tasting room.

With appetites satisfied, we loaded up the car and made our way back home. Along the way, we decided to stop by Swedenburg. We had not been to Swedenburg since the untimely death of matriarch Juanita Swedenburg, in June. In fact, we enjoyed our last bottle of C’est la Vie at Wolftrap this past summer; so, it was time to return. Newer offerings at Swedenburg include the Chardonnay with its pear/apple characteristics and dry finish. A partner to the Chardonnay is the latest in Ellen Crosby’s wine country mystery series, Chardonnay Charade. For those who read Merlot Murders, Chardonnay Charade is a continuation of events presented in Merlot Murders; in fact, the third installment in this series will be going to press soon. Ellen Crosby consulted with Juanita Swedenburg to produce this series of spine-tinglers, and Chardonnay Charade can be purchased at the winery. In fact, Warren purchased a bottle of the Chardonnay with a copy of Chardonnay Charade—what a perfect pairing!

With Fall in the air, we will be sure to enjoy the season with our favorite Virginia wines. Of course, October is Virginia Wine Month, and we encourage readers to consider Virginia wines when thinking about holiday menus. When in the Middleburg area, do stop by Piedmont Vineyards and Winery and Swedenburg Estate Vineyard but be sure to mention that Virginia Wine Time sent you.