On another weekday outing, we visited Pearmund Cellars for a tasting. It’s remarkable how quieter things are in the tasting rooms during the weekday! For those who wish to avoid the buzz and crowds and enjoy a more intimate afternoon of wine, conversation and food, a mid-week visit to a local winery may just fit the bill.

Since our last write up about Pearmund Cellars, several new releases have been added to the tasting menu. In fact, most of the white wines were indeed new to us. Our friend and fellow blogger, Dezel, recently raved about Pearmund’s Sauvignon Blanc, and we concurred with his stellar review. In fact, it earned Paul’s gold star. Lemon and grass notes observed here with similar flavors and a nice acidity. Sublte tropical undertones might be noted as well and may be attributed to the 15% blending of Viognier with this Sauvignon Blanc. For those on the prowl for nice summer wines, the 2006 Riesling may be in order. Clear in color with citrus aromas, the 2006 Riesling is perfect for sipping with light cheeses and fresh melon.

We moved on to the red wines, and the 2005 Malbec was a new experience for us. A garnet colored gem, the 2005 Malbec presented a bright red berry bouquet with softer hints of spice. Here was a more fruit-forward wine with a softer finish that can certainly be enjoyed with grilled chops yet can also be enjoyed on its own. However, the other red wines were just as satisfying. Paul’s personal favorite is always Lisa’s Merlot with its deep cherry profile. However, Warren still had a gold star to issue, and his was presented to the 2004 Ameritage. This Bourdeaux blend is a classic with more complexity and nuances. It presented a longer finish and is destined to age well on the wine rack.

Winery outings for us usually means lunch and a decision to make about which wine to enjoy with our meal. We brought along herbed chicken, Manchego cheese, fresh berries and crusty bread; the cheese drove our decision. Manchego benefits from pairing with fruit-driven red wines, and we decided that Pearmund’s 2005 Malbec would do quite nicely. Once out on the front patio, we lingered over lunch and wine while watching butterflies flutter to and fro.

Alas, time seemed to fly by as quickly as our brightly winged friends, and it was time to depart. However, we did relieve Pearmund Cellars of at least one bottle of 2006 Sauvignon Blanc. Of course, we will return to sample Pearmund’s futures releases; however, readers will want to visit Pearmund even sooner. Remember to let them know that Virginia Wine Time sent you!