As we continued to progress into the southwest region of Virginia, our next stop was West Wind Farm Vineyard and Winery. This was actually our last stop after visiting Blue Ridge Vineyard, and we were fearful that we would not be able to complete our trip to West Wind before closing time. However, we were warmly welcomed by vintner David Manley who was eager to have us taste West Wind’s wines. We gladly joined him at the tasting bar!
We were immediately impressed with West Wind’s tasting room. Well-appointed would be the apt descriptor; in fact, we wondered if we had not been transported to Tuscany! Large windows, a fireplace, comfy yet tasteful couches and other fine furnishings complemented breathtaking views of rural landscapes with mountains on the horizon. Of course, we were interested in the wines, and several offerings were gold-star contenders. Of the whites, the Galena Creek White offered a dry, crisp offering of the Vidal Blanc varietal. The Vidal Blanc is often associated with a sweeter white wine, but this is not the case at West Wind. The Galena Creek White just might be the answer for those looking for an interesting wine to serve with shell fish.
The red wines were as well-crafted as the whites. Warren is not a big Chambourcin fan, yet he raved about the 2005 Chambourcin with its plum flavors and spicy finish; this one might be an alternative to Pinot Noir as it is versatile and a destined crowd pleaser. However, Warren’s gold star was placed next to the 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon. Elegant and velvety were adjectives jotted down on the notepad with this one. Deep berry flavors in the mouth were noted as well—dark cherries and blackberries with a hint of licorice to boot. A nice wine to serve with a well-prepared beef dish, this wine is one that will age quite well. Warren enjoyed a glass of this Cabernet after our tasting as we chatted more with David. Not to be outdone was Paul’s own favorite, the 2005 Heritage Reserve. This limited production blend includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot and aged in French oak. Buy now but drink later—here is another one that will only get better with aging. Paul sensed the smoothing effect of the Merlot with the color and character of Petit Verdot and gave it the gold-star treatment. He also called this one his “cigar” wine, and determined to bring a bottle home!
David was kind enough to show us around the facility, and we were given a tour of the barrel room. West Wind produces fine wines in small quantities, and they debuted their selections in 2006. West Wind Vineyard and Winery is a family venture, and David joined the enterprise in order to become a part of Virginia’s vibrant wine industry. In fact, West Wind ‘s 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon earned the winery its first gold medal! David also noted that West Wind offers food and wine events throughout the year, and we hope to be able to attend these events in the near future.
With several “gold-star” purchases in hand, we left West Wind Farm Vineyard and Winery. We know that we will return, but readers will want to visit even sooner. Please mention that Virginia Wine Time sent you!