Virginia Wine Lover Magazine Fall 2011 by VistaGraphics

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4TH ANNUAL VWL WINE CLASSIC WINNERS INSIDE F A L L 2 0 11

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MR. JEFFERSON’S CHARLOTTESVILLE RAMBLING AROUND MONTICELLO MOUNTAIN MAKES AN EXCELLENT EXCURSION

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America’s

WINE Superstore

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WINNER

8,000 WINES | 2,500 BEERS | AND MORE

Retailer of the Year

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The Best Wines on Earth. The Lowest Prices Anywhere. Total Wine & More is like no other wine store you have ever visited. Each of our stores carries over 8,000 different wines, 2,500 beers, and more. With over 70 superstores, we have the buying power to bring you the best wines at the lowest prices. Our wine team is the best trained in the industry. Just think of them as tour guides, guiding you through the great wine regions. They are committed and dedicated to bringing you the Total Wine Experience™.

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FALL is Wine Time!

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Festivals, Wine Tours, Visits to Wineries. You’ve been bitten by the “wine bug” and there is still plenty of warm weather left. But where to store all those purchases? Albemarle Shelving Concepts has the perfect And AFFordABle solution! everything from TABle Top to full Wine CellAr design and installation. Hand made in the U.S.A. of quality pine and redwood. perfect for any home and designs for almost any space! And Albemarle Shelving has affordable solutions that will enhance your kitchen storage space without a full remodel. See how easy it can be to enjoy more space in less time and spend less money.

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Readers’ Choice

2011 AlbemarleShelvingConcepts.com Visit us at Fall Homearama, October 15th-31st at River Pointe in North Suffolk.

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Fall Autumn 2011 Contents | Feature

Reasons to raise a glass

Dozens of Virginia vinos sipped, swirled—and scored—in the fourth Virginia Wine Lover Magazine Wine Classic By Patrick Evans-Hylton

Contents | Departments 5

Editor’s Note

A PERFECT PAIR 16 Crazy for crustaceans: A primer in crabcakes

Publisher’s Note

POPPING THE CORK

Quaff Quiz – British invasion: Chris Parker helps Virginia wineries infiltrate the UK

10 Cork Report – A full pour of wine-related news 12 Try This At Home – Colleagues and compatriots sip and tell in casual wine tastings 13 Bloggers Imbibe – Cyber sips and tips from the blogosphere SEASONINGS 14 Gourd-eous fall food: Winter squash warms with seasonal colors, flavors

ACCOUTREMENTS 18 Wine, dine and shop mighty fine A FORK & THE ROAD 24 Mr. Jefferson’s little mountain: Travels in the footsteps of Monticello 26 History Uncorked – A meeting at the crossroads: Union and Confederates met in a bloody May at Spotsylvania Court House GRAPEVINE 40 Winery map 42 Winery list 44 Wine events

SPECIAL SECTIONS & SUPPLEMENTS 30 Great Getaways – Outstanding offerings across Virginia 49 Classifieds

For Advertising Information 757-422-8979 ext.156 or tthompson@hrmag.com The annual subscription rate is $9.95. For subscription orders and changes of address, call (757) 422-8979. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Virginia Wine Lover, 1264 Perimeter Parkway, Virginia Beach, VA 23454. 4 FALL 2011 n Virginia Wine Lover

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Editor’s Note

BE A LOCAVORE AND A LOCAPOUR

Local foods are a hot commodity, with folks flocking to farm markets for the fixings of their meals, and restaurants doing the same— working with area farmers, watermen and other producers to showcase the best of the state. But too often local wines aren’t included in this exciting trend; we firmly believe that you cannot be a locavore without also being a locapour. This summer we held our fourth Virginia Wine Lover Magazine Wine Classic Awards and examined a record number of vintages from across the state; the results are in this issue of the magazine. So that got us thinking—especially in lieu of the new law that allows customers to bring in bottles of wine to restaurants and pay a fee to the restaurant for doing so. I believe restaurants in Virginia have an obligation to carry Virginia wines; not exclusively, but to some extent. It completes the wining-dining circle, especially for non-chain eateries, and creates a synergy between farm, fork and cork. Here are some points we’ve made in the past, and some new ones to consider. If you are a restaurateur and carry Virginia wine on your list—bravo. If not, don’t feel shame, just do something about it. Here are my suggestions: u Pick at least two reds and two whites to start, and perhaps a sparkling and dessert. Offer at least two or three of your selections by the glass. u Pair the style of Virginia wine with the style of cuisine you offer. Italian restaurant? Try a Sanviogese, Nebbiolo or Barbera. Spicy food? Pick a Gewürztraminer. u Invite a winemaker or industry expert to come do a tasting for you and your staff to become familiar with the vintage and what makes Virginia wines so special. u Don’t bury Virginia wines in your wine list – give them a separate page or highlight their listing. Put some fun facts about the Virginia wine industry on the list—educate your customers. Also, try table toppers to promote Virginia wine. u Host at least one Virginia wine dinner a year, pairing your cuisine with Virginia wine. Invite a winemaker to attend and speak to your diners. u If you choose to not offer Virginia wines on your list, don’t charge a corkage fee for patrons who bring in vintages from the commonwealth. u Use the Virginia Wine Marketing Office (www. virginiawine.org) to help you successfully integrate and promote Virginia wines in your restaurant. In the end, we all win. Best,

Fall Events at Old House! October 15 — 10th Annual Cook Off

Join us for an afternoon of chili, wine tasting and live music. 11am-5pm, no fee.

October 22 — Country Western BBQ Join us for live Bluegrass, BBQ and dancing. 5:30-9:30pm, reservations only, $35/person.

November 5,6,12,13,19,20,26,27 — Soup’s On! Join us for Fall soups around the Old House Hearth. 12-5pm.

Tasting Room Hours Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays 1-5pm Saturdays and Sundays 12-5pm

18351 Corkys Lane, Culpeper, VA. 22701 540-423-1032 • www.oldhousevineyards.com

Just Opened! One Moment, Please! Sonnet 98 (Vidal Blanc) Double Gold Medal and “Best of Class” Winner A.D. 325 (chambourcin) Bronze Medal Winner Yesterday’s Song (chardonnay) Bronze Medal Winner

“Let our moments, be your moments…” 11am–6pm Wed.–Sat.; 1–6pm Sun.

4025 Childress Rd., Christiansburg, VA 24073 • 540.382.7619 • wine@attimowinery.com • www.attimowinery.com

Richmond’s Signature International Wine Event October 28-29, 2011 Historic Tredegar Richmond, Virginia

WineExcursion.com

Patrick Evans-Hylton patrick@virginiawinelover.com Official Charitable Beneficiary: The American Civil War Center at Historic Tredegar

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Publisher’s Note VIRGINIA WINE LOVER: SOMETHING TO (CYBER) SHOUT ABOUT

Cook and Quaff in Your Own Kitchen with our Try It At Home Videos!

CELEBR ATING

THE

GOOD

LIFE

Sip, swirl and learn about a Virginia wine in a video straight from the vintner. Then pair it with an easy-to-make meal, with stepby-step video instructions from

As you can tell from our cover selection this issue, we’re pretty excited about being able to bring a new dimension to Virginia Wine Lover magazine. When we launched the magazine more than three years ago, we simultaneously developed a companion website. The site, from the beginning, was designed to Scan me to see... complement the magazine. It has grown to allow us to offer rich content such as videos of some of Virginia’s best winemakers informing viewers of on the finer points of their wines. Our site also now offers a virtual on-line flipbook version of the current issue of VWL. Next on the agenda is a total re-design of this site. We’ll keep you posted with an expected announcement later this fall. Two years after the magazine’s launch, we introduced our weekly e-newsletter that allows us to keep folks current between print versions. Each e-newsletter is brief and to the point with a featured wine-centric event of the week, a weekend getaway, a recipe with suggested Virginia wine pairing from our editor Chef Patrick Evans-Hylton and an educational wine tidbit. If you are not currently a subscriber, you can sign up for this great newsletter through our website. Best of all, its free. Now we bring you our free Virginia Wine Lover mobile application for smartphones. This app works iPhones and Droids. From the home page of this app, users can easily navigate to any Virginia winery, map it and get directions from your current location, find tasting room hours, pull up any specials and even phone the winery directly. With 80,000 smartphone users in the US alone and a rapid growth rate in new smart phone purchases, we are very excited over the potential this technology will bring to our users. Another new development is our first Virginia Wine Lover magazine annual sourcebook; this winter edition focuses on full-page examinations of select Virginia wineries and Virginia getaway destinations. You’ll be able to see and read about these wineries, their history and what makes their wine so special. The sourcebook includes a cohesive look at top wine festivals and events in 2012. This issue will prove to be a valuable tool in planning tours and getaways in the new year. In this issue don’t miss our critics’ choice for Virginia’s top vino: we had a record number of entries for our fourth annual Virginia Wine Lover Magazine Wine Classic Awards and some very impressive winners. We congratulate all the winners and invite you read about them here and sample their products. You can then weigh in with your favorites as the Reader’s Choice Awards are just around the corner. Cheers!

VWL’s Chef Patrick Evans-Hylton. Visit www.VirginiaWineLover.com to see our latest pairing video.

Randy Thompson Publisher

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VOLUME 4

ISSUE 3

1264 Perimeter Parkway Virginia Beach, Virginia 23454 757-422-8979 www.VirginiaWineLover.com Publisher Randy Thompson Editor-in-Chief Melissa M. Stewart Executive Editor Patrick Evans-Hylton

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CELEBRATING THE GOOD LIFE www.VirginiaWineLover.com n FALL 2011

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TRY THIS AT HOME 12

BLOGGERS IMBIBE 13

CORK REPORT 10

QUAFF QUIZ

O QUAFF QUIZ 8

Popping the Cork

British Invasion O

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CHRIS PARKER HELPS VIRGINIA WINERIES INFILTRATE THE UK

PHOTO BY JIM PILE

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hris Parker had enjoyed a long and successful career in the software and IT industry, with much of his work being in international business development; his second career also focuses on that same multinational exchange of commerce, but this time with a product that began as a passion. “I developed an interest in wine which became a passion. It started in England, my original home, over 30 years ago,” he says. “I recall enjoying Clos Fourtet 1962 at a dinner party with friends. It was a pivotal moment—I realized that finesse and elegance could be found in a glass! I started to explore wines from other regions of the world and found New Zealand wines, wines from Rioja and Penedes in Spain and Bulgaria.” His interest in wine continued and Parker studied at the Wine & Spirits Education Trust where he earned a Higher Certificate with Distinction. “I moved to Virginia in 1989 to work for a technology company and in my travels around Virginia, to my complete surprise, I discovered wineries such as Barboursville Vineyards,” says Parker. He continued exploring Virginia wines. “By 2007 I had decided that the Virginia wine industry was close to being able to take a step into the international market, and I could see the need to develop an international business strategy and a channel to market. I formed New Horizon Wines to lead the way,” he says. New Horizon Wines works to create and develop the international market for Virginia wines. Over the last two years his company has introduced wines into the UK from 14 wineries including: Barboursville Vineyard, Boxwood Winery, Breaux Vineyards, Keswick Vineyards, Veramar Vineyards, Veritas Winery, White Hall Vineyards and Williamsburg Winery. Parker serves as CEO. HOW DO YOU THINK FOLKS OUTSIDE VIRGINIA VIEW THE WINE INDUSTRY HERE? The UK is the largest importer of wine in the world and it is a complex market. I believed that the British wine drinkers would enjoy the balanced, food

‘‘

The UK is the largest importer of wine in the world and it is a complex market. I believed that the British wine drinkers would enjoy the balanced, food friendly wines of Virginia, particularly Viognier and Cabernet Franc. Since introducing Virginia wines in 2009 top wine merchants in the UK, such as the Oxford Wine Company and The Sampler have added a range of wines to their list including Viogniers, Cabernet Francs, Petit Verdots, and red blends in the traditional Bordeaux styles.

R C

friendly wines of Virginia, particularly Viognier and Cabernet Franc. Since introducing Virginia wines in 2009 to top wine merchants in the UK, such as the Oxford Wine Company and The Sampler, have added a range of wines to their list including Viogniers, Cabernet Francs, Petit Verdots and red blends in the traditional Bordeaux styles. The largest selection of Virginia wines in the UK can be found at Whole Foods Market in Kensington London, where they have a ‘Virginia WIne’ Section of 15 wines. World renowned London restaurants such as Bar Boulud, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal and Zuma have all added Virginia wines to their lists.

- Go to your local specialist wine shop and talk to the staff. If they are trained well they will ask you questions to show you wines that you like and to point out other wines that might be pleasing to your palate. - Try something completely unknown— exploring is fun. WHAT DO YOU SEE AS SOME OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES TO THE VIRGINIA WINE INDUSTRY? Increasing quality grape production to support sustainable growth. International competition. There are many excellent wines in the world so we have to be clear in how we promote Virginia. Viognier is being defined as a signature varietal for Virginia by the market and by decree. It is one (strong) aspect of our story. Balancing local, national and international market growth. They all have to be addressed to maximize the potential for the development of the Virginia wine region and wine tourism. We have momentum, growing interest in the region and wines, and a growing number of wineries. Each winery will determine its path, but in what context. That is the bigger question that I am confident will be addressed by the Virginia wine industry. DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE GRAPE (OR TWO) GROWN IN THE STATE, AND WHY? Viognier, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot

’’

WHAT FACTORS DO YOU CONSIDER IN PAIRING WINE WITH A DISH? A good meal has layers of flavors in balance and textures that work together. When pairing a wine I like to think about how the wine and food will enhance the total experience. For example, a Viognier —perfumed aromatic, peaches and honeysuckle, and balanced with acidity that gives a lift and freshness—pairs well with a rich lobster bisque. NAME THREE THINGS FOLKS SHOULD CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A WINE? - What type of wine do you enjoy?

WHAT IS THE FUTURE OF VIRGINIA WINE? We will become known around the world for Viognier, probably Cabernet Franc, maybe Petit Verdot. There will be a growing demand from the international markets. WHAT DO YOU THINK THOMAS JEFFERSON WOULD THINK OF VIRGINIA WINE TODAY? Thomas Jefferson said, “Wine, being among the earliest luxuries in which we indulge ourselves, it is desirable that it should be made here and we have every soil, aspect and climate of the best wine countries.” I would like to think that Thomas Jefferson would think that his dream had come true. VWL www.VirginiaWineLover.com ■ FALL 2011

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Popping the Cork Cork Report

Conference Recap

Total number of Virginia wines featured at Virginia Wine Board-sponsored events:

Total number of states that the bloggers were from:

(Does not include wines from winery tours)

Total number of Virginia AVAs (American Viticultural Areas) featured throughout the conference from participating wineries:

Total number of “Tweets” (#wbc11, #vawine):

15,206

(Twitter Impression = number of possible viewers of a Tweet in the stream)

The Wine Bloggers Conference is the premier event for wine bloggers and others in new/online media. The event featured wine tasting events, breakout sessions, live blogging sessions, dinners and visits to area wineries. VWL .

CHEERS TO CHINA

47 78 21 Total number of Virginia wineries featured:

(Blue Ridge, Central, Eastern Shore, Northern Neck, Northern, Shenandoah Valley, Southern)

(Eastern Shore AVA, Monticello AVA, Northern Neck AVA, Shenandoah Valley)

While Virginia wine is enjoyed in many states across the country, and even exported to Britain, a new customer comes on board through a trade agreement with one Charlottesville winery and a Chinese importer. Barboursville Vineyards is working with the

(#wbc11 was the hashtag used to discuss the 2011 Wine Bloggers Conference; #vawine is the hashtag used, ongoing, to discuss Virginia wine) VWL

Tianjin Tewoo Group to export their vintages to China. The announcement was made in early August. The Orange County winery is celebrating its 35th anniversary; the vineyard was founded in 1976 by Gianni and Silvana Zonin of Italy. VWL

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7 Total number of Virginia wine regions featured throughout the conference from participating wineries:

Total number of countries that the bloggers were from:

336

Total number of “Twitter Impressions” (#wbc11, #vawine):

Total number of Virginia wineries featured on July 23 tours:

43,506,241

VWL contributing editor Frank Morgan shares some interesting facts gleaned from the Virginia Wine Board in regard to the three-day 2011 Wine Bloggers Conference, held in July in Charlottesville:

Total number of conference participants:

O O

Popping the Cork Cork Report

The first-ever Virginia Wine Country Half Marathon took place June 4 and included a weekend full of wine dinners, winery tours and other celebrations of Virginia vino. The course wound through Northern Virginia, beginning at Breaux Vineyards and ending at Tarara Winery.

The race was won by Tesfaye Dube of New York and Ethiopia, with a time of 1:05:38, and Brenda Schrank of Winchester, with a time of 1:25:27. A commemorative poster was created by French artist Jean-Pierre Got.

Registration begins in September for next year’s race, which will take place June 9, 2012. VWL

“Kluge Estates is temporarily closed—Watch for our grand reopening” reads the message on the Charlottesville winery’s website. In the spring, real estate and media mogul Donald Trump purchased the financially-troubled, 600-plus-acre facility, established in 1999 by Patricia Kluge. Mums the word on what’s to follow, but in an April interview with The Washington Post, Trump indicated the purchase was more about the property than the wine. “I’m really interested in good real estate, not so much in wine,” he said in the article. “This place had a $28 million mortgage on it, and I bought it for $6.2 million.” If wine will continue to be produced, look for a Trump label. “Of course, it’s only Trump,” he told the paper. “Everything is Trump.” VWL

PHOTO COURTESY OF STINSON VINEYARDS

THE DONALD TRUMPS KLUGE

PHOTO COURTESY OF WWW.KLUGEESTATE.COM

RUN FOR THE ROSES

Left: Stinson vineyards Below: Saude Creek Vineyards Grand Opening

INFO CUVEE In light of the new Virginia state corkage law allowing guests to bring their own wine into a restaurant, Chris Pearmund of The Winery at La Grange, Pearmund Cellars and Vint Hill Craft Winery is reimbursing visitors to his wineries 50 percent off the corkage fee they paid when they present a recent dinner receipt from a restaurant showing the charge for opening a Virginia wine. Pearmund says he will reimburse for the corkage fee paid for opening any Virginia wine at a restaurant, not just vintages from one of the wineries that he is affiliated with. Saude Creek Vineyards opened in July, the newest winery to call Virginia home. Located on the Pamunkey River in New Kent County, the historic site was once home to Frank’s Tavern, a waypoint for colonial travelers from Williamsburg northward. Current offerings include four whites, a rose and five reds. Stinson Vineyards also opened in July. The boutique vineyard is in White Hall, north of Charlottesville, and features the 1796 Piedmont House on its property; a custom-designed modernistic tasting room greets guests. Current offerings include three whites, a rose, a red and a dessert wine. VWL www.wineryatlagrange.com www.pearmundcellars.com

www.vinthillcraftwinery.com www.saudecreek.com

www.stinsonvineyards.com

Do you have wine news to share? Email to: patrick@virginiawinelover.com www.VirginiaWineLover.com n FALL 2011

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Popping the Cork Try This At Home

PHOTO COURTESY OF NU REYNA

O The Wines There were three ties for first place; additional wines evaluated are listed alphabetically by winery.

NV Hidden Brook Winery, Late Harvest (First place tie)

2008 Narmada Winery, Primita (First place tie)

2009 Willowcroft Winery, Claire (First place tie)

NV Barrel Oak Winery, Chocolate Lab

2007 Burnley Vineyards, Rubix NV Cooper Vineyards, Noche 2008 Gadino Cellars, Dolce Sofia NV Hiddencroft Vineyards, Grandma’s Love Potion

The Sweet Life WINE BLOGGERS UNCORK DESSERT WINES

2006 Prince Michel Vineyard and Winery, Tres Bien 2008 Rappahannock Cellars, Vidal Blanc

2006 White Hall Vineyards, Edichi

Comments

“We learned that … the Old House is a great port-like wine, but wasn’t meant to be tasted like a dessert wine.” “We discovered that Lost Creek Vineyards Courtney’s Christmas Blend goes superbly well when paired with spice cake.”

Hosting a Virginia Wine Lover wine tasting party at home is easy: 1. Go to www.virginiawinelover. com and download our free, exclusive guidelines. You’ll find wine selection and serving tips, party planning ideas, food pairing guidelines, and easy-to-follow judging sheets for everyone at your party. It couldn’t be easier!

Chambourcin (port-style)

love bringing new people into the Virginia wine experience. When folks left, we provided them with a sheet listing all the wineries sampled that evening, along with a copy of the official Virginia wineries map and a copy of Virginia Wine Lover magazine.” The Jensens wanted to get feedback on wines they were less familiar with, so they intentionally left two of O their favorites, Gray Ghost H AT Adieu and Fabbioli Raspberry Merlot, out of the mix. VWL —PEH

urt and Carol Jensen are wine lovers and wine bloggers in Northern Virginia and enjoy sharing their passion with friends, whether through the written word or through wine tastings at their home. A Virginia dessert wine party gave folks a chance to sample the sweeter side of vino from the commonwealth, and Kurt reports TH some of the results were IS surprising. “Our guests were treated to some amazing desserts created for the evening, paired with a selection of Virginia dessert wines,” he says. “And we

NV Lost Creek Winery and Vineyards, Courtney’s Christmas Blend NV Old House Vineyards,

2. Host your party, have fun, and take lots of pictures. Gather your judging sheets from everyone in attendance at the end of the evening; just by participating, you and all your friends will be signed up for our free Virginia Wine Lover e-newsletter featuring exclusive content like wine tips, recipes and giveaways.

3. Send your photos and wine tasting results to us; we’ll post the results on our website and, once per issue of Virginia Wine Lover magazine, we’ll feature a party in print—with everyone in attendance winning a free one-year subscription to the publication.

“It’s really fun to have the chance to open so many wines at the same time. While we obviously liked something about each of these wines when we bought them, we certainly have some real favorites of our own now.” Information provided by Kurt Jensen. Kurt and Carol blog at http:// WineAboutVirginia.blogspot.com We encourage wine lovers to host tastings in their home and report their findings to us. Enthusiasts of all levels can participate—we give you the tools you need for a successful vino event at our website, where you will also find helpful videos to learn more about the Virginia vintages, www.virginiawinelover.com.

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Popping the Cork Bloggers Imbibe

CYBER O SIPS AND TIPS FROM THE BLOGOSPHERE

The internet brings folks together—instantly. Across the world, people Facebook, Tweet and otherwise blog about everything going on in their lives; fortunately many of them are imbibing at the same time. What are some of Virginia’s top bloggers enjoying at the moment? VWL contributing editor Frank Morgan, of the blog Drink What You Like, and Allan Liska, of the blog Cellar Blog, share their thoughts on Viognier and rosé with VWL:

Viognier is very Virginia

In May, the Virginia Wine Board designated Viognier as Virginia’s signature grape for national branding purposes. One relative newcomer to the Virginia wine industry, Annefield Vineyards, is already producing an impressive example of Virginia Viognier.

‘‘

Frank Morgan

Annefield Vineyards was founded in 2005, the vines were planted in 2006, and they officially open in July 2010. Annefield Vineyards is one of the few wineries in Virginia practicing Annefield biodynamic viticulture. 2009 Annefield Viognier: Light gold

2009 Viognier

color in the glass, this 100 percent Viognier displays aromas of white peach, tangerine, and melon with hints of honeysuckle on the edges. In the mouth, the white peach and tangerine flavors are layered nicely on top of light mineral components. The lush mouth feel is enhanced by eight months spent in neutral oak without adding a strong oaky component that plagues many Viogniers. The finish leaves a lingering note of tangerine zest. This Viognier paired nicely with a lobster roll and would pair well with a number of chicken dishes or spicy sushi rolls. $22.

PHOTO BY FRANK MORGAN

’’

Frank Morgan blogs at www.drinkwhatyoulike.wordpress.com

A recollection of rosés

‘‘

Allan Liska

Fabbiola Cellars 2010 Rosa Luna

Rosé often gets a bad rap as a sweet wine with little substance, but that does not have to be the case. Traditional rosé wines have always had a good balance of acidity and tannins, making them excellent food wines but also great for sipping on the deck. Here are three Virginia rosés, all done in different styles that nevertheless have the body and structure of a traditional rosé. 2010 Fabbioli Cellars Rosa Luna: The Fabbioli Rosé is 100 percent Sangiovese grape. Unlike in previous years, this vintage was vinified like a white wine. This is a bright wine with aromas of strawberry and good floral notes. It is has a good blend of acidity and tannins creating the feeling of freshness with a nice medium finish. $18.

Breaux Vineyards Cabernet Rosé

2010 Breaux Vineyards Cabernet Rosé: This wine is 100 percent Cabernet Sauvignon grape; the fruit is harvested, chilled, then pressed while still cold, allowing it to maintain freshness in the bottle. This is a wine with aromas of red fruit and watermelon on the nose. On the palate great acidity, with no residual sugar, but still enough body to hold its own against food. $19.

Boxwood 2010 Rosé

2010 Boxwood Rosé: A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this dry rosé is done in a traditional Bordeaux-style with a short period of maceration that adds tannins and complexity. The Boxwood rosé has aromas of black cherry and spice, it has good acidity and a nice structure and a soft finish. $14. Allan Liska blogs at www.CellarBlog.org

VWL

’’

Bloggers Imbibe is a column featuring opinions from well-respected wine bloggers from across the state who focus on Virginia vino. —PEH

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O Seasonings

WINTER SQUASH WARMS WITH SEASONAL COLORS, FLAVORS

Gourd-eous Fall Food

Words and Food Styling by Patrick Evans-Hylton

culinary harbinger of autumn, winter squashes seem to perfectly reflect the season in both color and flavors. It’s not just the season that separates winter squashes from summer squashes. The latter, which are harvested from late spring through early fall, provide lighter flavors and rinds that remain edible and tender (because they are picked and consumed immature) through the cooking process; two of the most recognized are yellow squash and zucchini. Winter squash have grown to full maturity when they are selected, and their rind has become hard. Inside, there is

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Get VWL executive editor Chef Patrick Evans-Hylton’s exclusive recipes on our website, www.virginiawinelover.com

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tender flesh, generally ranging in color from pale yellow to robust orange. Also inside are a multitude of seeds, many of which can be roasted and eaten. But back to the color and flavor of winter squashes; from acorn squash to pumpkin, the hues outside—and in— are the warming yellows and oranges one associates with autumn, which just so happens to be when these gourds come to market. The flavors are earthy and robust, and take on a multitude of applications. They can take it—so dish it out; drown them in butter, mix them with fiery spices, and pair them with smoky pork. They, and your tastebuds, will thank you.

ROASTED PUMPKIN SEEDS

This is an element in our Pumpkin & Pancetta Wonton-Wrapper Ravioli, and also a fun and delicious way to use seeds when carving a Jack O’Lantern for Halloween.

INGREDIENTS

1 cup pumpkin or squash seeds 1 tablespoon canola oil 1 teaspoon Chesapeake Bay seasoning mix (or sea salt)

1. T orta de Tamal 2. Moroccan (spicy ground beef, Roasted tomatoes and corn Pattypan Squash stuffed in a split with Sultanas, corn muffin) topped Dried Dates & with Cinnamon & Exclusively on our website, Lemon Zest atop Chipotle Spiked www.VirginiaWineLover.com, Minted Couscous, Butternut Squash we give recipes for: paired with Mashers, paired with Potomac Point Horton Vineyard’s Winery’s Merlot. Route 33 Red.

METHOD

Scoop seeds from pumpkin or squash and rinse off pulp and pat dry. In a bowl, combine seeds, oil and seasoning and toss to coat. Place on a baking sheet and bake at 350F for between 30 and 40 minutes, turning occasionally and watching to make sure seeds turn golden but do not burn.

3. 3. P umpkin & Pancetta Wonton-Wrapper Ravioli in Sage Beurre Noisette with Bay Seasoned Pepitas, paired with Doukenie Winery’s Petit Verdot. VWL

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rus aceans t C A Perfect Pair

hroughout oceans and seas around the world, crabs hold court with an iron claw. Although there are some 850 species of crabs, in the Mid-Atlantic the blue crab is the favorite. These crabs are found abundantly along the Atlantic coast from Nova Scotia to Argentina, are harvested in crab pots and taken to restaurants to be served up in many different, tasty forms. The crustacean can turn up in dishes like Crab Imperial, Crab Norfolk and She Crab Soup. Many folks also enjoy crab boils, where the crab is steamed in large pots of water peppered with spices and seasonings, then cracked open and the sweet, delicate meat picked, dipped in melted butter and eaten. Soft shell crabs are also favorites in season, typically prepared fried or pan-sautéed. And then there are crabcakes— a beautiful amalgamation of crab, binder, filler and spices cooked until GBD (that’s Golden, Brown and Delicious for you landlubbers). Crabcakes are accented with a number of sauces, ranging from cocktail to tartar and everything in between. Wines to pair with crabcakes can vary on the different components that constitute them, and the sauces that spotlight them; milder applications to the dish means lighter wines, while spicier or heartier methods means a bit bolder wine, typically.

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Crazy for

A PRIMER IN CRAB CAKES

By Patrick Evans-Hylton

FOOD STYLING BY PATRICK EVANS-HYLTON (TOP PHOTO), PHOTOS BY JIM PILE

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O O

CRABCAKE 101

Backfin – large pieces of white meat from the backfin cavity, smaller than jumbo lump; often used in crabcakes, sautéed crab, crab cakes, salads and garnishes. Claw meat – meat from crab claws, usually dark and rich; often used in soups, stews and crabcakes.

WEB EXCLUSIVE

Get VWL Executive Editor Patrick Evans-Hylton’s exclusive crabcake and sauce recipes on our website, www.virginiawinelover.com

Crabcake – a formation of crab and, usually, a binding ingredient such as egg or mayonnaise; filler such as bread crumbs or crushed crackers; and seasoning such as black pepper or Old Bay; into patties and then fried, broiled or sautéed and served as an entrée or on bread as a sandwich. Jumbo lump – large nuggets of meat from the body cavity; often used in sautéed crab, crabcakes, salads and garnishes.

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Special meat, regular meat – white flakes of crab meat as opposed to lump; often used in crabcakes, soups, salads and dips. VWL

Exclusively r i on our website, a W i n e L o v e www.Virginia WineLover.com, we give recipes for:

• Classic Crabcake with Beurre Blanc Tarragon Sauce, paired with Barrel Oak Winery’s Viognier Reserve.

• Deviled Crabcake with Crazy Spicy Cocktail Sauce, paired with Attimo Winery’s Chambourcin.

• Herbed Crabcake with CucumberDill Tartar Sauce, paired with Chatham Vineyard’s Church Creek Chardonnay (oak). www.VirginiaWineLover.com n FALL 2011

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Accoutrements

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RY E EVENG T A R CELEB LE OPENI BOT T ITH A FAB W SCREW CORK

(1) A floating axis keeps the worm screw and cork parallel while the long handle gives good leverage to pop the cork out easily with the BOOMERANG CORKSCREW. Retractable, built-in four-wheel foil cutter blades make quick work of even the thickest metal foils. Made in Italy by Oenophilia. $10.49 from Salute! Wine Market, Winchester (www.salutewinemarket.com) (2) The GENTLEMEN’S CORK REMOVER is inspired by Victorian corkscrews of yesteryear. This all metal, double-winged corkscrew features a pull tab top and is presented in a decorative wooden gift box for storage. $24.99 by True Fabrications from Uncorked/Wines For All Reasons, Buena Vista (www.uncorked-va.com) (3) Faster than a speeding bunny, the classic RABBIT CORKSCREW (packaged with an aerator as a gift set) opens bottles by easily employing its user-friendly ergonomic design. $49.95 from Sur La Table (locations in Arlington and Richmond; www.surlatable.com)

(4) Get a grip with THE LEVER, a simply designed corkscrew which gives room to grab hold and extract the toughest enclosure. The Lever is an all-metal, Victorian-inspired device presented in a decorative wooden gift box. $24.99 by True Fabrications from Uncorked/Wines For All Reasons, Buena Vista (www.uncorked-va.com) VWL —PEH

Gourmet/wine/lifestyle retailers – have a product that enhances the Virginia wine experience? Find out how to highlight it here; email patrick@virginiawinelover.com 18 FALL 2011 n Virginia Wine Lover

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“RABBIT CORKSCREW” PHOTO BY DAVID UHRIN, ALL OTHERS COURTESY OF UNCORKED-VA.COM

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Glass Raise a

DOZENS OF VIRGINIA VINOS SIPPED, SWIRLED—AND SCORED— IN THE FOURTH VIRGINIA WINE LOVER MAGAZINE

WINE CLASSIC

or four years, we’ve been popping our cork over the incredible offerings of Virginia vino at the Virginia Wine Lover Magazine Wine Classic; this year we had more wineries enter than in years past, and we’ve had more winners in each category, as well. Our panel of wine experts spent the day at Riverstone Chop House in Suffolk—noted for its remarkable

By Patrick Evans-Hylton

wine list and the extensive wine list at its sister eatery, Vintage Tavern, also in Suffolk—examining the offerings from dozens of wineries. The judges sipped, swirled and spat some 140-plus of the best wines produced across the commonwealth and evaluated each based on its own individual merit. Evaluation was done doubleblind in flights, with each judge recording his or her findings on sheets printed with a grid of the

UC Davis (University of California at Davis) 20 Point System. The Davis system assigns a certain number of points to each of its 10 categories ranging from bouquet to color to taste to aftertaste. Our magazine team totaled and tallied each sheet to obtain an overall rating for each vintage, and we categorized the averages into four levels—Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze. We present our findings to you here: www.VirginiaWineLover.com n FALL 2011

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The Criteria The UC Davis 20 Point System evaluates wine on its own merits, looking at the following criteria and assigning the following points value:

Democracy Vineyards Unum Viognier 2009

Clarity – 2 points Color – 2 points Bouquet – 4 points Total Acidity – 1 point Sweetness – 1 point Body/Texture – 2 points Flavor/Taste – 2 points Bitterness – 1 point Finish – 1 point Quality – 4 points We tallied each judge’s evaluation sheet and came up with an average and placed each in one of four categories: Platinum 90 percent or higher Gold 70 – 89 percent Silver 50 – 69 percent Bronze 49 percent or lower —PEH

Flying Fox Vineyard Trio 2008 Flying Fox Vineyard Viognier 2010 Breaux Vineyards Viognier 2010

Fox Meadow Winery Viognier 2009

Cooper Vineyards Viognier 2010

Ingleside Vineyards Sangiovese 2008

Pearmund Cellars Vinecroft Vineyard Viognier 2009

Chatham Vineyards Vintner’s Blend 2008

Lazy Days Winery Viognier 2009

Potomac Point Winery Richland Reserve Viognier 2010

Cooper Vineyards Coopertage 2008

Narmada Winery Viognier 2010

Sunset Hills Vineyard Viognier 2010

Democracy Vineyards Velvet Revolution Reserve 2009

Pearmund Cellars Ameritage 2007

White Hall Vineyards Viognier 2010

Democracy Vineyards Forum 2009

Pearmund Cellars Pan D’Or Vineyard Cabernet Franc 2009

Winery at La Grange Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

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PLATINUM

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GOLD

GOLD LEVEL WINNERS Afton Mountain Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2009 Afton Mountain Vineyards Pentola D’Oro 2009 Afton Mountain Vineyards Festa di Bacco 2009 Attimo Winery A.D. 325 Chambourcin 2010 Attimo Winery Sonnet 98 2010 Attimo Winery Yesterday’s Song Chardonnay 2010 Attimo Winery Sweet Berry Sunset 2010 Breaux Vineyards Nebbiolo 2006 Breaux Vineyards Nebbiolo – Ice 2010 Breaux Vineyards Jennifer’s Jambalaya 2010 Breaux Vineyards Marquis de Lafayette Cabernet Franc 2008 Casanel Vineyards Dulce Late Harvest Viognier 2009 Catoctin Creek Winery Cabernet Franc 2009 Catoctin Creek Winery Syrah 2009 Cedar Creek Winery Estate Bottled Cabernet Franc 2008 Cedar Creek Winery Estate Bottled Cabernet Franc 2009 Cedar Creek Winery Estate Bottled Chardonnay 2009 Casanel Vineyards Batucada Merlot 2008

Chateau Morrisette Liberty Chateau Morrisette Petit Verdot 2008

Hickory Hill Vineyards Country Red

Chatham Vineyards Petit Verdot 2009

Holly Grove Vineyards High Tide Traminette 2010

Chatham Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2008

Holly Grove Vineyards Merlot 2008

Chateau Morrisette Angel Chardonnay

Holly Grove Vineyards Sunset Rose’ 2009

Chateau Morrisette Rose’ 2010

Holly Grove Vineyards Celebration Petit Manseng 2010

Chateau Morrisette Frosty Dog 2009 Cooper Vineyards Soleil Late Harvest Viognier 2009

Ingleside Vineyards Petit Verdot 2006 Lazy Days Winery Petit Verdot 2009

Cooper Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2008

Lazy Days Winery Petit Manseng 2009

Fabbioli Cellars Cabernet Franc 2009

MountainRose Vineyards Autumn Gold 2009

Fabbioli Cellars Tre Sorelle 2009 Flying Fox Vineyard Petit Verdot 2008 Flying Fox Vineyard Cabernet Franc 2008 Gray Ghost Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2008 Gray Ghost Vineyards Ranger Reserve 2009 Gray Ghost Vineyards Gewurztraminer 2010 Gray Ghost Vineyards Adieu Late Harvest Vidal Blanc 2010 Gray Ghost Vineyards Vidal Blanc 2010 The Hague Winery Merlot 2009 The Hague Winery Meritage 2009

MountainRose Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2009

Potomac Point Winery Heritage Richland Reserve 2009 Potomac Point Winery Richland Reserve Chardonnay 2010 Potomac Point Winery La Belle Vie Rose’ 2010 Prince Michel Cabernet Franc 2007 Rogers Ford Winery First Frost Vidal 2010 Rogers Ford Winery Select Virginia Red 2008 Sunset Hills Vineyard Merlot 2009

Naked Mountain Winery Cabernet Franc 2007

Stinson Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2010

Naked Mountain Winery Merlot 2007

Sunset Hills Vineyard 2009 Sunset Red

Naked Mountain Winery Raptor Red 2007

Twin Oaks Tavern Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

Naked Mountain Winery Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2007

Veramar Vineyard Free Run Estate Club Cabernet Sauvignon 2007

Naked Mountain Winery Unoaked Chardonnay 2010

White Hall Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2009

Narmada Winery Yash-Vir 2009

White Hall Vineyards Petit Verdot 2009

Narmada Winery Lotus Vidal Blanc 2010

Winery at La Grange Meritage 2008

Narmada Winery Gulabi Chambourcin 2010

Winery at La Grange Fletcher’s Chardonnay 2008

Philip Cater Winery Late Harvest Dessert 2008

Winery at La Grange Cuvee Blanc 2009 www.VirginiaWineLover.com n FALL 2011

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SILVER LEVEL WINNERS

SILVER

Cooper Vineyards Coopertage Blanc 2009 Democracy Vineyards Declaration 2009 Afton Mountain Vineyards Estate Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Afton Mountain Vineyards Gewurztraminer 2009 Bluestone Vineyard Beau Vidal Blanc/Traminette 2010

Democracy Vineyards Village View Gold - Apple Fabbioli Cellars Cabernet Franc Reserve 2008 Fabbioli Cellars Pear NV Fabbioli Cellars Sangiovese 2010

Hickory Hill Vineyards Chardonnay 2008

Prince Michel Arete’ Cabernet-Merlot

Hickory Hill Vineyards Red Bud Rose’

Prince Michel Arete’ Merlot

Hickory Hill Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2008

Prince Michel Mt. Juliet Vineyard Petit Manseng 2007

Holly Grove Vineyards Coastal Trio 2010 Ingleside Vineyards Colonial White Ingleside Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

Rogers Ford Winery Jacob Christopher Chardonnay 2008

Ingleside Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2007

Rogers Ford Winery Summerduck Rose 2008

Lazy Days Winery Merlot 2009

Stinson Vineyards Mourvedre’ 2010 Stinson Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2010

Bluestone Vineyard Viognier 2010

Flying Fox Vineyard Rose’ 2010

Bluestone Vineyard Chardonnay 2009

Fox Meadow Winery Cabernet Franc 2008

Lazy Days Winery Sweet Lazy Days White Wine 2009

Bluestone Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

Fox Meadow Winery Pinot Gris 2010

MountainRose Vineyards Blair White 2009

Casanel Vineyards Batucada Cabernet Sauvignon 2008

Fox Meadow Winery Riesling 2010

MountainRose Vineyards Pardee Red 2009

Gray Ghost Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2010

Narmada Winery Midnight Chambourcin 2010

Gray Ghost Vineyards Chardonnay 2009

Narmada Winery Mom 2010

Gray Ghost Vineyards Riesling 2010

Narmada Winery Dream Traminette 2010

Gray Ghost Vineyards Victorian Red

Philip Carter Winery Cleve 2009

Gray Ghost Vineyards Victorian White

Philip Cater Winery Governor Fauquier Vidal Blanc 2009

Casanel Vineyards Mas Que Nada Viognier 2009 Catoctin Creek Winery Vidal Blanc 2010 Chateau Morrisette Chambourcin 2009 Chateau Morrisette Chardonnay 2008 Chateau Morrisette Cabernet Franc 2009 Chateau Morrisette Independence Chatham Vineyards Steel Unoaked Chardonnay 2009

The Hague Winery Petit Verdot 2009 The Hague Winery Chardonel 2009 Hickory Hill Vineyards Merlot 2008

Prince Michel Barrel Select Chardonnay 2006

Potomac Point Winery Abbinato 2010 Prince Michel Quaker Run Farm Syrah 2006

Sunset Hills Vineyard Sunset Rose’ 2010 Sunset Hills Vineyard Chardonnay 2010 Twin Oaks Tavern Raven Rocks Red Twin Oaks Tavern Estate Grown, Shenandoah Valley Chardonnay 2010 Veramar Vineyard Free Run Estate Club Merlot 2008 Veramar Vineyard Riesling - Vidal Blanc 2008 White Hall Vineyards Pinot Gris 2009 Winery at La Grange Cabernet Franc 2009

Prince Michel Pinot Grigio 2009 Prince Michel Symbius 2006

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The Critics Adam Steely – sommelier; co-owner Blue Talon Bistro, Williamsburg

Charlie Rizzo – sommelier, River Stone Chophouse, Suffolk

Chris Parker – owner, New Horizon Wines, internataional exporter of Virginia Wines

Ian Honaker – sommelier; owner Let’s Talk Wine shop, Chesapeake

Marc Sauter – sommelier, co-owner Zoes Steak & Seafood Restaurant, Virginia Beach

Frank Morgan – wine blogger at www.drinkwhatyoulike. wordpress.com

SPECIAL THANKS

A special thank you to owners Cindy and Chef Sam McGann and Brian and Teresa Mullins and their staff at River Stone Chophouse in northern Suffolk for their hospitality in hosting the third annual Virginia Wine Lover Magazine Wine Classic judging. Their stunningly beautiful artsand-crafts-style restaurant was the perfect venue for the judging. We encourage you to stop by and sample the award-winning cuisine and outstanding wine list. River Stone Chophouse 8032 Harbour View Blvd., Suffolk 757-638-7990 www.riverstonechophouse.com

Marisa Marsey – food and wine writer; Johnson & Wales University representative

BRONZE

BRONZE LEVEL WINNERS Bluestone Vineyard Vidal Blanc 2010 Casanel Vineyards Mas Que Nada Chardonnay 2009 Catoctin Creek Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 Chateau Morrisette Cabernet Sauvignon 2008

Gray Ghost Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Unfiltered 2009 Gray Ghost Vineyards Merlot 2010 MountainRose Vineyards Riesling 2009 Prince Michel Dry Rose’ 2006

Rogers Ford Winery Virginia White 2008 Veramar Vineyard Estate Club Viognier 2009 Veramar Vineyard Estate Club Reserva Chardonnay 2007 VWL

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Patrick Evans-Hylton – Virginia Wine Lover magazine executive editor; food and wine educator

For winery contact information, including city, region, phone number and web address, visit the Grapevine section in this issue of Virginia Wine Lover magazine.

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O Monticello

A Fork In The Road

Mr. Jefferson’s little mountain PHOTOS COURTESY OF MONTICELLO

riving north and west from the sea level lands of the tidewater of Virginia, the terrain gently begins rolling, cresting in rounded hills and small mountains all the way to the abutment of the Blue Ridge. It’s a pastoral setting—lush green carpeting of foliage-laden trees in the spring and summer and fiery blazes of oranges and reds from the same trees in the fall. Winter has a charm of its own, with the stark naked trunks standing against deep blue skies. It was here, in Virginia’s Piedmont, that Thomas Jefferson was born. His childhood studies included the classics, and he learned Latin, Greek and French. By age 16 he attended the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, read law, and passed the Virginia bar. His was a worldly world, and that included wine. Considered America’s first wine connoisseur, Jefferson was a true oenophile with a dream of turning Virginia into a major wine producing state. Intoxicated with all things French, while he served in that country as ambassador, he spent much of his time learning the skills of winemaking. He wanted to successfully grow the vitis vinifera in Virginia and Monticello produce Europeanstyle wine in America. To this, Jefferson brought Italian viticulturalist Filippo Mazzei to Monticello, his mountainside home (Monticello means

“little mountain” in Latin) overlooking Charlottesville. In 1773, Mazzei planted and nurtured vines from France on a tract of land where Jefferson Vineyards stands today. But Mazzei could not nurture the plants past disease and climate conditions, and Jefferson did not live to see the problem overcome. Today, in the shadow of his Monticello home and across the state, wine grapes do grow, and Virginia has become the wine producing state Jefferson dreamed of. In fact, not long ago, Travel + Leisure magazine named Virginia as one of five up-andcoming wine regions, along with areas of Chile, Italy, Spain and New Zealand.

It’s a brisk fall day when our car turns off Scottsville Road just south of the town of Charlottesville and makes its way up Thomas Jefferson Parkway. The road is windy as it traverses the terrain, climbing past soaring trees with falling leaves. Our first stop is Monticello, the estate of the nation’s third president. Here we hope to walk around the house and grounds and get a feel for the fine living Jefferson lived, which contributed so much to his love of good food and wine. A number of tickets and tours are available, and our pass allows us to walk through the house and get a glimpse inside Jefferson’s world. Each room is rich in its own right, with rich furnishings, intricate architectural details and beautiful vistas. Of note in our visit is the wine cellar, where many wines from all across Europe were stored. The low-ceilinged room, rustic with exposed

BY PATRICK EVANS-HYLTON brick walls and wooden racks, gives a sense to the reverent place that Jefferson gave wine in his life. Outside the historic gardens are remarkable flower gardens, vegetable gardens and fruit gardens. We explore them all, lingering to learn about some of the 330 vegetable varieties and 170 fruit varieties that are grown here. And there is a vineyard here; Jefferson never successfully grew the type of European grape that produces classic wines, but there are New World vines here, including the Scuppernong.

Soils test at Barboursville Vineyards, 1976. Winery founder Gianni Zonin (L), viticulturist Gabriele Rausse, consultant Count Cicogna.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BARBOURSVILLE VINEYARDS

TRAVELS IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF MONTICELLO

Known as one of the framers of modern Virginia wine making, Gabriele Rausse oversees this space. Rausse’s importance to Virginia wine can not be underscored enough; he was brought by Italian winemaker Gianni Zonin to Charlottesville in 1976 to start a vineyard, which has now grown to become Barboursville. His tireless work in those fields, just miles from Monticello as the crow flies, was a building block to the industry today. Rausse still makes small batches of wine that are private labeled. His winery is not open to the public, but many stores and restaurants in the area sell his wine.

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We also took time to visit Carter Mountain Orchard, a mountainside farm of apples and other fruits, open since 1912. Fruit can be purchased ready-picked, or you can try your hand at harvesting right off the tree. Virginia is well known for apples, and there are many varieties here, including Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Winesap, Fuji, Pink Lady and more. Fall also brings plenty of pumpkins for sale. Favorite activities are hayrides in the cool autumn air and enjoying treats like apple cider, apple cider doughnuts and apple pie, among many. It’s not hard to imagine Jefferson sitting at his Monticello estate, just up the mountain from here, enjoying a juicy apple as the long autumnal shadows stretch from the east, enveloping the bucolic scene into darkness. VWL

Where to stay Because our trip was coupled with other activities, we stayed in a commercial hotel on this visit; there are many quality hotels and motels in the area. There are also wonderful bed-and-breakfasts in the area. A full listing of B&B options can be found through the Bed & Breakfast Association of Virginia, www.innvirginia.com Additional lodging options can be found at the Charlottesville Albemarle Convention & Visitors Bureau website, www.visitcharlottesville.org

Where to imbibe Some of the wineries in-and-around Charlottesville include:

Thistle Gate Vineyard

Wines include: Cabernet Franc, Chambourcin, Chardonnay, white blend, red blend. This winery is open by appointment only. www.thistlegatevineyard.com Several of these wineries make up the two dozen-plus vineyards on the Monticello Wine Trail. For more information, visit www.monticellowinetrail.com. For a complete listing of wineries in the Charlottesville area and throughout the state, visit the Grapevine section of Virginia Wine Lover.

What to do Antiquing

Wines include: Chardonnay, Viognier, Cabernet Franc, Meritage, Merlot, Petit Verdot www.blenheimvineyards.com

Scores of antique shops and flea markets are located across the Charlottesville area; a full list can be found at the Charlottesville Albemarle Convention & Visitors Bureau website, www. visitcharlottesville.org

First Colony Winery

Arcady Vineyard Wine Tours

Blenheim Vineyards

Wines include: Chardonnay, Traminette, Vidal Blanc, Viognier, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Tannat, Touriga www.firstcolonywinery.com

Jefferson Vineyards

Wines include: Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Viognier, white blend, Cabernet Franc, Meritage, Merlot, Petit Verdot, red wine blend. www.jeffersonvineyards.com

A private tour visiting some of the areas premier wineries. www.arcadyvineyard.com

Ash Lawn-Highland

Adjacent to Monticello, this was the estate of President James Monroe, now open for touring and special events. www.ashlawnhighland.org

Kilaurwen Winery

Wines include: white blend, red blend, Cabernet Franc, rose. This winery is not open as of press time; it is anticipated to be open in this season. www.kilaurwenwinery.com

Montdomaine

Wines include: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Vigonier. This winery is open by appointment only. Virginia Wineworks is also located at this facility. www.montdomaine.com

Carter Mountain Apple Picking Carter Mountain Orchard

A pick-your-own/pre-picked orchard with an emphasis on apples and apple products; open since 1912. Hayrides and other events offered. www.cartermountainorchard.com

Dining Out

Scores of restaurants are located across the Charlottesville area; a full list can be found at the Charlottesville Albemarle Convention & Visitors Bureau website, www.visitcharlottesville.org

Michie Tavern

A circa 1784 tavern offering tours and midday Southern fare. www.michietavern.com

Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello

Thomas Jefferson’s home; the house and grounds are open for tours and many special events are held throughout the year. www.monticello.org —PEH

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PHOT BY CHRIS MELIGONIS

Following an ambling tour of Monticello, we make our way back down the mountain—just a bit—for a bite at Michie Tavern. This circa 1784 building strives to recreate 18th-century tavern life and offers a midday bill of fare including fried chicken, baked chicken and pulled pork barbecue along with such sides as black-eyed peas, stewed tomatoes and cornbread. Tours of the tavern, built by William Michie as a place to provide travelers with food, drink and lodging, are available. Throughout the year, special events are also held, including Virginia wine and beer tastings. Fueled with the spirit of Mr. Jefferson and the buffet at Michie Tavern, we turned our attention to imbibing. Within a short distance of Monticello are several Virginia wineries, among them Blenheim, First Colony and Jefferson. Open by appointment is Montdomaine, which is also the home to Virginia Wineworks; we toured with winemaker/owner Michael Shaps. Also open by appointment is Thistle Gate, but we weren’t able to visit on this trip. Coming this fall is another winery, Kilaurwen. As of press time, one of the more notable wineries is closed. The financially-troubled Kluge Estates was purchased by Donald Trump in April; a message on the vineyard’s website reads, “Kluge Estates is temporarily closed— watch for our grand reopening.” As with so many wineries in the state, part of the charm of visiting is the scenery and hospitality. Take your time at each stop; linger and visit and get to learn the winemaker’s vision. All of the wineries that we visited and that are open to the public are on the Monticello Wine trail; in all there are more than two dozen wineries that belong to this confederation, so if time allows, further exploration is possible. We split our visit into two days to take advantage of as many visits as possible.

WHERE TO GO, WHAT TO KNOW

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History

Uncorked

A Meeting at the Crossroads

PHOTO COURTESY OF SPOTSYLVANIA COUNTY

ollowing the Battle of the Wilderness, Union and Confederate troops moved southeast and engaged again at a critical juncture: the crossroads of Spotsylvania Court House. The ensuing fight, known as the Battle of Spotsylvania and sometimes the Battle of Spotsylvania Court House, took place off and on between May 8 and May 2, 1864. There Planning a trip to were almost Spotsylvania? 32,000 casualSpotsylvania County ties, and the Government result was Department of Economic inconclusive. Development & Tourism The Spotsylvania 540-507-7090 Battlefield today www.spotsylvania.org is maintained Want more information on by the National the Civil War in Virginia? Park Service Civil War Trails and is one of www.civilwartrails.com four battlefields in the area: Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville and Wilderness battlefields are all nearby, and a visit to Spotsylvania can be extended to include these. Spotsylvania Reenactment Spotsylvania itself is between Richmond and Washington D.C.; Fredericksburg is nearby, offering dining and shopping diversions. Much of the landscape in Spotsylvania is rural, and there are outdoor activities to explore in addition to touring the battlefields, including recreational options at Lake Anna State Park. History Uncorked is an ongoing column examining Virginia people and places of the American Civil War during its sesquicentennial through travel to historic destinations statewide. —PEH

UNION AND CONFEDERATES MET DURING A BLOODY MAY AT SPOTSYLVANIA COURT HOUSE

Chatham Manor A magnificent Georgian mansion and outbuildings overlooking the Rappahannock River, built between 1768 and 1771; central to much of the fighting from the Battle of the Wilderness. Visitors can tour the grounds, which include colonial revival gardens. www.nps.gov/frsp Ellwood Manor This circa 1790 home was in the middle of much of the Battle of the Wilderness; Gen. Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson was here (his amputated left arm was buried in the family cemetery) and other Civil War luminaries were here, too. www.nps.gov/frsp Farmers’ Market Seasonal market showcasing locally grown produce, baked goods and more. www.spotsylvania.va.us Lake Anna State Park A 2,810-acre park with 10 miles of lake frontage. Uses include beach and picnic areas, as well as boating, hiking, camping and fishing activities. www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_ parks/lak.shtml Spotsylvania Courthouse Battlefield A continuation of the Battle of the Wilderness,

A full listing of lodging options can be found at the Spotsylvania County Government Department of Economic Development & Tourism website. www.spotsylvania.org

TO SUP

Stevenson Ridge

TO SEE

… The inn includes seven private cottages from the 18th and 19th century ranging from one to two bedrooms.” http://stevensonridge.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF STEVENSON RIDGE

O O

A Fork & the Road » Spotsylvania Court House

fighting at this May 1864 Civil War battle lasted two weeks. Walking tours led by historians are offered, as well as self-guided walking tours and a fivemile driving tour. Nearby: Wilderness Battlefield. www.nps.gov/frsp

A full listing of dining options can be found at the Spotsylvania County Government Department of Economic Development & Tourism website. www.spotsylvania.org

Spotsylvania County Museum This museum has a Civil War focus in addition to chronicling the history of Spotsylvania County back to 1722. “17 Days in May” is a special exhibit that looks at the 1864 battles in the area. www.spotsylvania.va.us

Wineries in the region include:

Stonewall Jackson Shrine The plantation office building, one of several outbuildings of the former Fairfield plantation, where Gen. Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson died following an attempt at recuperation after being accidently shot by one of his own men at The Battle of Chancellorsville. www.nps.gov/frsp A full listing of sites, activities and events can be found at the Spotsylvania County Government Department of Economic Development & Tourism website. www.spotsylvania.org

TO STAY Stevenson Ridge From their website: .... “Stevenson Ridge is an 87-acre historical property

TO SIP

Hartwood Winery Wines include: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Vidal Blanc, Viognier, white wine blends, various rosés, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chambourcin, Merlot, red wine blends www.hartwoodwinery.com Mattaponi Winery Wines include: Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, other wines www.mattaponiwinery.com Lake Anna Winery Wines include: Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Seyval Blanc, Vidal Blanc, white wine blends, Cabernet Franc, Chambourcin, Merlot, red wine blends www.lawinery.com

Potomac Point Winery Wines include: Chardonnay, Petit Manseng, Traminette, Viognier, white wine blends, various rosés, Cabernet Franc, Meritage blends, Merlot, Norton, Petit Verdot, red wine blends, other wines www.potomacpointwinery.com VWL

—PEH

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Thank you to this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Platinum Sponsor:

September 24-25

27 Virginia Wineries 85 Juried Craft & Food Vendors Live Bands For more info: 540.721.1203 www.smlwinefestival.com LakeWatch Plantation Moneta, VA

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Sunday, October 23, 2011 Noon - 5:00 p.m. On The Lawn Salem Civic Center Tickets On Sale Now!

$18 in advance

$20 at the gate

14 Wineries •Airplane Displays •Car Show •Skydivers •Artisans •Specialty Foods •Cooking With Wine Show •Authors & Arts Auction Each Day •Barrel Train •Playground • Balloon Art Clown •And MORE!

Available at Salem Civic Center and Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce 21 and Older Wine Festival No Pets Bring your chair and relax with the band www.s-rcchamber.org Hosted by: SalemRoanoke County ChambeR of CommeRCe foundation, inC.

A great place to start and end every evening, Lemaire’s new chic bar offers a specialty cocktail menu that features seasonal drinks and modern twists on classic favorites. Stop by and experience it for yourself. Oh, and lose the tie. It’s time to loosen up.

101 W E S T F R A N K L I N S T R E E T, R I C H M O N D I N T H E J E FFE RSO N H OT E L

Bar opens at 4 pm with a bar menu available until midnight. No reservations needed; just walk in, sit down and have a drink.

Free valet and self-parking available. For more information, call 804-649-4629 or visit our website at lemairerestaurant.com. JEF7803-VaWine_7.125x4.656.indd 1

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GREAT GETAWAYS

Shenandoah

North Mountain Winery www.northmountainvineyard.com

Shenandoah Vineyards www.shentel.net/shenvine

The Hampton Inn & Suites of Woodstock presents the

Virginia Wine Lover’s Package

Stay two nights in the beautiful Hampton Inn & Suites, with “on the house” free full hot breakfast. Enjoy our indoor pool/whirlpool, free Wi-Fi and well equipped business and fitness centers! Take a scenic tour of the gorgeous Shenandoah Valley with a wine tour of four of our local wineries. Free wine tasting vouchers included. Visit historic downtown Woodstock and enjoy a three course dinner for two at Joe’s Steakhouse. This is a perfect getaway package that you won’t want to miss. Only $250 for two persons, with an upgrade to a suite available for $20 difference. Available Thurs. through Sun. Expires 1-1-12

1150 Motel Drive • Woodstock, VA 22664

540-459-7111

hamptoninnwoodstock.com Wolf Gap Winery • Shenandoah Vineyards North Mountain Winery • Cave Ridge Winery Wolf Gap Winery www.wolfgapvineyard.com

Cave Ridge Winery www.caveridge.com

Shenandoah County Wine Trail There’s Only One Shenandoah County in the Shenandoah Valley. Visit our vineyards and wineries: Cave Ridge • North Mountain Shenandoah • Wolf Gap Pair your visit with one of our Bed & Breakfasts, Hotels or Vacation Homes.

Shenandoah County Tourism 600 North Main St., Suite 101 Woodstock, VA 22664 888.367.3965 www.shenandoahtravel.org www.shenandoah-ed.org

Photos By: Marie Joabar

Travel U.S. Route 11, A Virginia Byway, and experience the charm of our 6 towns.

THE PERFECT ESCAPE

ocated just southwest of the tip of the Commonwealth are the six quiet and friendly communities of Shenandoah County. Shenandoah offers a tremendous variety of great outdoor activities that are not only unique to the region but also fun for every member of the family. Spend a leisurely day taking in the breathtaking underground views of the Shenandoah Caverns, the only cavern site in the state with elevator service! You are sure to get your fill of awesome stalactites, stalagmites and crystalline and limestone formations during the mile long tour. Not to be outdone by the natural wonders of Shenandoah, the wineries and vineyards are also sights to behold. Located along the Shenandoah County Wine Trail, you’ll find North Mountain, Wolf Gap, Cave Ridge and Shenandoah—four of IF YOU’RE the finest vineyards in GOING… Virginia. Take a sip of perfection at any of Where to stay: these four delectable locations. Shenandoah Hampton Inn County provides the & Suites ideal terrain for these 540-459-7111 vineyards to produce www.hamptoninimpeccable reds and nwoodstock.com whites, merlots and chardo nnays. What to do: You will get the opportunity to experiShenandoah ence all the exciting Caverns facets of Shenandoah 888-422-8376 culture at the shenandohcavShenandoah Uncorked erns.com III festival in November. Wineries from all over Shenandoah the state will showcase their finest products, Uncorked and local vendors will www.shenandoaoffer you a great selechuncorked.com tion of farm fresh produce and goods. While you taste the flavors of the season, you’ll tap your feet to the beat of live music, and the kids will have their share of fun activities as well. Shenandoah has it all, even a fantastic deal for all wine lovers at the Hampton Inn & Suites of Woodstock. The Virginia Wine Lover’s Package offers you a free full hot breakfast at the hotel, wine tasting vouchers for the nearby vineyards and a three course meal for two at Joe’s Steakhouse if you stay for two days at the Hampton Inn. Plan your trip to Shenandoah, and discover a world of indescribable natural beauty, friendly faces and impeccable wine.

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GREAT GETAWAYS

Harrisonburg

YOUR SHENANDOAH VALLEY HEADQUARTERS FOR GREAT GETAWAYS

here is so much to fall in love with during autumn; the temperature cools down, the leaves change color, and the local harvest is brimming with so many choices. As the colors change, remember that Harrisonburg is always within reach. Our city is located in the Where to Go: heart of the legendary Bluestone Vineyard Shenandoah Valley, and surrounded by the 540-828-0099 George Washington www.bluestone National Forest and vineyard.com the Shenandoah National Park. Where to Stay: Cross Keys Vineyard offers a Tuscan feel and Residence Inn is situated minutes Marriott from Massanutten 540-437-7426 www.marriott.com/ Resort and downtown Harrisonburg. Enjoy shdhr panoramic views of vineyards and the mountains with courtyard and front terrace seating. Try one of their Grape to Glass tours or year-round take a seat in their tasting room

that showcases classic varietal and hybrid wines including, Chardonnay, Vidal Blanc, Chambourcin, Petit Verdot and more. Bluestone Vineyard is our newest neighbor producing wines from the grapes of the Shenandoah Valley and Virginia. This vineyard and winery has a small tasting room, weekend entertainment and incredible views. Find a few surprises, like the popular Beau, a sweet golden wine named for a sweet golden dog. Multiple flavors of white grapes tumble out with each taste. Or try Traminette, a spicy white wine that is perfect for cooler months. This wine goes with most party foods and is a real surprise when served with curry dishes. As you sip locally produced wines, nothing comes

between you and the majestic mountains of the Shenandoah Valley. Satisfy a localvore craving at the Joshua Wilton House Inn & Restaurant. Featuring a menu that changes with the seasons, Chef Mark Newsome has cultivated relationships with many local producers and farmers providing the freshest locally-grown and sustainable ingredients. Some of the really small farmers just come to their kitchen door or call when they have crops. Additionally, Chef Mark sources some of the fruits served at the Joshua Wilton House from his own backyard. Talk about local! So grab a light jacket and get a front row view of the harvest. Plan your adventure in Harrisonburg, VA.

Visit local vineyards and attractions nearby and come home to Residence Inn!

ot breakfast buffet, indoor pool, putting green, sports complex, workout room, luxurious rooms and suites with fully equipped kitchens, wireless, and we’re pet friendly! Near JMU, EMU, Grand Caverns, historic downtown, shopping mall. Walking distance to dining.

540-437-7426

I-81 exit 247-B 1945 Deyerle Ave, Harrisonburg VA

www.marriott.com/shdhr

bluestone experience

Enjoy our wine and the against the backdrop of the

beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.

Go. Celebrate. Shop. Dine. Stay. Plan your adventure in Harrisonburg, VA HarrisonburgTourism.com 540.432.8935

4828 Spring Creek Road • Bridgewater, VA 22812 (540) 828-0099 • www.bluestonevineyard.com www.VirginiaWineLover.com n FALL 2011

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GREAT GETAWAYS DISCOVER THE GENIUS OF JEFFERSON®

Hilton

Garden Inn® Charlottesville

Charlottesville THE NAPA VALLEY OF THE EAST

Dedicated to YOUR comfort!

Finest quality services and amenities

In the heart of Albemarle Wine Country and Monticello Wine Trail Indoor pool, restaurant, lounge, business center, free wireless, HD TV cable/HBO, conference center. Just minutes to University of Virginia, Historic Downtown Mall, Monticello, Ashlawn, Paramount Theater, the Charlottesville Pavillion, dining and shopping. Monticello’s recently restored Wine Cellar

I-64 exit 124 1793 Richmond Road Charlottesville VA 22911

Now featuring new tours, exhibitions, & restored spaces. Get tickets online or call (434) 984-9880

434-979-4442 • www.StayHGI.com

www.monticello.org

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VIRGINIA

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estled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s easy to see why Charlottesville is dubbed the Napa Valley of the East. With over 20 different wineries and vineyards to choose from, prolific cities like Charlottesville make Virginia the 5th largest producer of wine in the nation. This fall while the weather is cooling down and the leaves are changing color, you’ll discover why this area is an all-in-one package for the wine connoisseur and the traveler. Exquisite scenery, fine dining, a pulsing city, thrilling adventures and a bounty of charming wineries peppered across the lush rolling hills of the historic city await you. Take the time to experience the rich history in Charlottesville. Visit the home of Edgar IF YOU’RE GOING… Allen Poe and President Where to stay: James Monroe. Discover the university that Boar’s Head Inn inspired Georgia 800-476-1988 O’Keeffe to crewww.boars ate some of her headinn.com most astounding art, and Hilton Garden Inn finally, explore 434-979-4442 the stunning www.stayhgi.com home of Thomas Jefferson. What to do: Tucked away in the furrows of Monticello the Southwest 434-984-9880 Mountains sits www.monticello.org the illustrious Monticello, surrounded by colorful foliage. Celebrate the season’s bounty at the Heritage Harvest Festival at Monticello in September, and join in a cooking class at Monticello in November. There’s always an event to suit everyone’s taste! If you’re looking to enjoy a relaxing morning in Charlottesville by getting back to nature, visit one of the beautiful orchards to gather your favorite varieties of apples. For your more adventurous side, take a trip down the James or Rivanna River on your very own kayak, or enjoy a bike ride in the crisp morning air. There’s always something wonderful to discover here, but fall is the optimal time to explore the fascinating city of Charlottesville.

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GREAT GETAWAYS

Staunton THE PLACE WHERE NEW BEGINNINGS COMBINE WITH OLD FAVORITES

ith a charming downtown and the gorgeous Shenandoah Valley as a backdrop, Staunton is the perfect destination for an autumn getaway in Virginia. Get outside and enjoy the beautiful fall weather by exploring the area to the fullest. There’s no better outdoor activity than sipping wine at one of the beautiful vineyards in Staunton and nearby areas. Barren Ridge Vineyards is a converted apple barn that now houses a state-of-theart winery. Stop by to sample some of their award winning vintages. Fall is all about glorious views and simple relaxation so to fully celebrate the season, experience the products of Ox-Eye Vineyards. They’ve been growing high-quality IF YOU’RE GOING… wine grapes for a What to do: number of central Virginia winerOx-Eye Vineyards ies since 1999, www.oxeyevineyards.com and now they’ve constructed Where to Stay: their very own on-site winery to Hampton Inn Staunton produce a unique 540-886-7000 variety of wines HamptonInn.com under the Ox-Eye label, including Lemberger with notes of black pepper and cherry and Gewürztraminer, hinting flavors of classic rose petals and lichi nut. Visit their tasting room, and sip a glass of Ox-Eye’s finest as you relax on their outdoor patio, located in the Historic Wharf District of downtown Staunton. While you’re in Staunton, gain a sense of culture at the American Shakespeare Center’s Blackfriars Playhouse, a re-creation of Shakespeare’s original indoor theatre. Get tickets for Shakespeare’s epic Henry V, the tale of England’s hero-king and of the greatest upset in European military history. Tamburlaine the Great is another phenomenal theatre piece showing at the Playhouse that tells the story of a shepherd who conquers kingdoms in an attempt to satisfy his ambition and prove himself worthy of the beauty he loves. In early September, watch the mischievous comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream, full of lovers, heroes, fairies and rude mechanicals in Shakespeare’s tribute to humankind’s power of imagination. At Sunspots Studios in historic Staunton, live glass blowing demonstrations are held daily in their historic building downtown. Add this picturesque gift gallery and glass blowing studio to your scenic trip to Staunton. This autumn, fall in love with majestic views, Shakespearean plays and delicious wines—all in the heart of Staunton.

Enjoy attractions and wineries by day, Sleep in luxurious comfort by night Free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, fitness room, cable/HBO, wireless, kids stay free. Near Wilson Birthplace, Frontier Culture Museum, Glass Blowing, shopping & dining

540-886-7000

I-81 exit 220 40 Payne Lane Staunton VA 24401 www.hampton-inn.com/hi/staunton

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GREAT GETAWAYS

ampton Inn Col Alto in historic Lexington is a unique combination of a gentler time, paired with today’s conveniences. Stay in the historic 1827 Manor House or modern hotel rooms. Free hot breakfast, wireless, outdoor pool and Jacuzzi, fitness room, conference center. Walking distance to downtown, dining, shopping, VMI, W&L, Stonewall Jackson House. Virginia Horse Center nearby.

540-463-2223

I-81 exit 188-B 401 East Nelson St, Lexington VA

www.hamptoninn.com

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Lexington, Buena Vista & RockBRidge county

VIRGINIA www.lexingtonvirginia.com | Toll Free (877) 453-9822

Lexington RUSTIC REREAT

ake one look at the breathtaking vistas that surround Lexington and you will surely be singing how the hills are alive. Situated at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lexington abounds with awe-inspiring views and that good ‘ole Appalachian music—not to mention a rich history dating all the way back to the Civil War era. Lexington is a city of adventure. Formidable mountains brace the county with walls eager to be tackled by a willing hiker. Parks and hiking trails litter the landscape to the brim ready for hikers any season. Even the ever popular Appalachian Trail runs through the county in a few locations, making Lexington a true hiker’s paradise. With a scene as beautiful as Lexington’s so many other outdoor activities are available too, such as camping, fishing, kayaking, IF YOU’RE horse-back riding GOING… and hunting. Or just sit back and Where to Stay: enjoy some local Hampton Inn Appalachian tunes Col Alto by one of the many 540-463-2223 bluegrass groups of www.hampton the area. inn.com For a true adventure with wildlife, visit nearby Virginia Safari Park, the commonwealth’s only drive-thru zoo. This 180-acre park is home to more than 1,000 exotic animals from six continents. Drive along three miles of road in the Shenandoah Valley while the animals approach your vehicle in search of a tasty bucket of feed. Or head south of the city and bare witness to one of Virginia’s most unique and immense natural wonders, the Natural Bridge. Twenty stories of pure rock formation, the Natural Bridge draws in sightseers from all over. In addition, you can explore the underground formations of the caves nearby. As for the historic aspects of Lexington, the city is home to the Virginia Military Institute, which has a museum on campus. Travel back in time to the Civil War as you enter the Stonewall Jackson House. Discover the mysteries of the past and learn about the legendary nickname “Stonewall” at the Stonewall Jackson Memorial Cemetery where the general himself is buried.

34 FALL 2011 n Virginia Wine Lover

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Romance

on the Blue Ridge Whiskey Wine Loop! The loop includes recommended visits to numerous “treasures” including Virginia wineries, a Whiskey distillery, eateries and other high interest features along the way.....

3 Day/ 2 Night Getaway •

•

Package includes: Two night stay for two guests at Virginia’s only authentic Timberframe cabin rentals - Shadow Mountain Escape A self guided tour + free wine tasting at the Blue Ridge Whiskey Wine Loop wineries Dinner for two at one of the Blue Ridge Whiskey Wine Loop Restaurants - Artisans Grill, Griffin Tavern & Restaurant, Thornton River Grille or Mimslyn Inn Two tickets to Luray Caverns, Complimentary Gift Basket upon arrival

www.DiscoverShenandoah.com Simply fill out the adjacent Reader Response Card. Drop it in the mail or register online at VirginiaWineLover.com/offers. VWL 030-039 GREAT GETAWAYS 8_11.indd 35

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GREAT GETAWAYS

Waynesboro

Visit wineries by day, sleep in luxurious comfort at night! Nearby to Barren Ridge Vineyards, Wilson Birthplace, Frontier Culture Museum, Grand Caverns, Blue Ridge Parkway and more.

HOSPITALITY IN THE VALLEY

Free hot breakfast, indoor pool, fitness room, cable/HBO, wireless, free local calling, kids stay free.

I-64 exit 91 15 Four Square Lane, Fishersville VA

540-213-9500

www.hamptoninn.com

Centrally located to six vineyards!

place you can call home when you’re nowhere near it. Hot breakfast buffet, indoor pool, putting green, sports complex, workout room, luxurious rooms and suites with fully equipped kitchens, wireless, and we’re pet friendly! Near Moss Museum, Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive,Grand Caverns, Wilson Birthplace, Frontier Culture Museum and shopping mall. Walking distance to dining.

540-943-7426 I-64 exit 94

44 Windigrove Drive, Waynesboro VA

www.marriott.com/shdri

entrally located within the state, Waynesboro is easily accessible to the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive. As sprawling as the valley is, it should come as no surprise that Waynesboro is a perfect place to take in the brilliant fall colors and chilly weather. Waynesboro is known for its sense of community, and it is showcased perfectly at their annual Fall Foliage Art Show that takes place in early October. Everyone gathers together to support artists and craftsman from around the country and to celebrate the arrival of fall. Also in October are the River City Wine and Jazz Festival, the Gem and Mineral Show and the British Car Festival—surely an activity for everyone! After you’ve had your fill of festivities, stroll down Main Street and do some shopping. Waynesboro boasts both unique, local shops, as well as the commonplace stores. It is a balanced blend of a small, picturesque town with a more modern, progressive atmosphere. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a bite at one of the many restaurant selections that Waynesboro has to offer, ranging IF YOU’RE GOING… anywhere from Where to Stay: comfort food classics to creHampton Inn ative vegetar540-213-9500 ian options to www.hamptoninn.com fresh pitas and Virginia’s finest Residence Inn Marriott seafood. 540-943-7426 Get back to www.marriott.com/ nature by enjoyshdri ing the magnificent vistas from over 100 overlooks or taking a stroll on a part of the area’s 682 miles of hiking trails. Waynesboro is known for its abundance of outdoor activities such as biking, camping, golfing, hunting, fishing and the newest craze, geocaching, in which participants use a GPS to hide and seek containers filled with items for trading and log books. Go back in time at a museum to browse galleries of relics from the town’s founding and history of industries, educational institutions and more. Visit a historic house and discover artifacts from the Civil War as well as Native American artifacts, and explore the summer kitchen, historic garden and other outbuildings. No matter your interest, you’ll fall in love with Waynesboro’s small town charm and its ability to allow you to enjoy yourself in your own way.

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GREAT GETAWAYS

Front Royal WHERE THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS MEET THE SHENANDOAH RIVER

ome to Front Royal and enjoy the include historic walking tours; take a walk back in time with a period dressed guide fall foliage in all of its natural elewho will lead you down the streets and gance. Located a stone’s throw from through the battle that the nation’s capital but miles opened the way to from the hustle and bustle, Winchester. Front Royal is a town where Front Royal has all Downtown also you can settle in and be a offers bicycling, local. Front Royal is located scenic places to lose boating, canoeing/ in Warren County 70 miles west of Washington, D.C., yourself in the beautiful kayaking, fishing, golf, hiking/backpacking, at the northern end of the surroundings—especially horseback riding, parks Skyline Drive. with playgrounds and The region borders the when the summer’s picnic areas, scenic Shenandoah River in the green leaves are making airplane and balloon northwestern corner of rides, as well as tennis. Virginia. It is bounded by the that alluring alteration It all comes together Blue Ridge Mountains on the to make Front Royal a east and the Massanutten in color. charming, fall getaway Mountains on the west. Close by are: for a long weekend or Shenandoah River State a weeklong vacation. park, Shenandoah National Park, George Washington National Forest and The Appalachian Trail; all scenic places to lose yourself in the beautiful surroundings— especially when the summer’s green leaves are making that alluring alteration in color. Wine lovers will enjoy the awardwinning vineyards that dot the graceful landscape, including Chester Gap Cellars, Chateau O’Brien at Northpoint, Fox Meadow Vineyards, Glen Manor Vineyards, Rappahannock Cellars, Gadino Cellars, Narmada Winery, and Philip Carter Winery. Many are located along The General’s Wine & History Trail and can be enjoyed with self-guided visits or via limousine service. Culinary delights abound too. Whether you are in the mood for a down-home cooked meal or out for a special occasion on a cool, autumn night, you will not be disappointed by the selection of locallyowned restaurants and national favorites. The farmer’s market, open every Thursday and Saturday through October, is another must for eager Front Royal first-timers. The market is the perfect outlet for fresh foods and offers plenty of goods that make for the quintessential picnic among the orange and brown leaves of fall. While in Front Royal, enjoy the sites of the historic downtown and the many events that take place throughout the year. These

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GREAT GETAWAYS

Botetourt CELEBRATING THE GOOD LIFE Virginia Wine Lover Magazine— the premiere publication that celebrates Virginia wines and the good living that accompanies them through food, travel and other pleasures.

Subscribe Today! Free t-shirt with 2 year subscription… 8 quarterly issues for only $15.00. Visit www.VirginiaWineLover.com/subscriptions

One inch equals miles of reﬁned pleasure

Discover a taste of the good life as you explore The Wine Trail of Botetourt County. Featuring three family-run vineyards offering tours, tastings and special events throughout the year, The Wine Trail of Botetourt County begins and ends with great taste. Call or log on today for a free guide.

540.473.1167 | www.botetourtwinetrail.com

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ONE OF VIRGINIA’S OLDEST COUNTIES IS ONE OF ITS NEWEST DELIGHTS

iscover for yourself a place of timeless beauty and abundant history. Botetourt County has it all—charming towns, breathtaking mountain scenery and award winning wineries. The classic American experience is alive and well in Botetourt County. Let your nostalgic journey begin with tree-lined sidewalks bursting with fall colors, mom and pop shops, old-time theatres and the smiling faces of Botetourt’s friendly downtowns. Explore all three unique downtowns featuring cultural and historic sites, annual festivals, and unique shopping and dining options. Visit the Pomegranate restaurant and gathering place, located in a renovated wine warehouse in Troutville for a plethora of delicious offerings. Start with their tapas selection that features a variety of helpings from the earth and from the ocean. Next indulge in the chef’s specials that range from Troutville trout served with asparagus and corn to filet mignon accompanied by crispy potato croquettes and creamy mushrooms in a red wine reduction. If you’re in the mood for a cultural experience, head to the Rhein River German Restaurant and Inn located in Buchanan. Partake in the authentic old-world style German cuisine and occasional wild game specials, and try a wonderful selection of German beers and wines—all set within a beautifully renovated 1840s manor home. See the Blue Ridge Mountains and its breathtaking fall foliage as you’ve never seen them before as you paddle the Upper James River through Botetourt County. The mighty James River begins Discover a taste of its majestic journey in Botetourt and winds its way through the the good life as you Blue Ridge Mountains on its way explore The Wine to the sea. The unspoiled beauty of the river is more accessible Trail of Botetourt than ever through the Upper River Water Trail. Paddlers, County. The crisp, James anglers and families can get fresh air and fertile back to nature and enjoy the sights and sounds of 45 miles of valleys of Botetourt the Upper James, including 14 County provide the pristine miles designated as a Virginia Scenic River. ideal conditions for Discover a taste of the good life as you explore The Wine Trail growing grapes. of Botetourt County. The crisp, fresh air and fertile valleys of Botetourt County provide the ideal conditions for growing grapes. The county’s three wineries—Virginia Mountain Vineyard, Blue Ridge Vineyard and Fincastle Vineyard & Winery—place a special emphasis on quality wines made with old-world techniques. You’ll find a wine to please every palate, from a light sweet white to a full-bodied red. The scenic views and old-fashioned hospitality of Botetourt County creates the perfect environment to enjoy these fine wines. No matter where you start, The Wine Trail of Botetourt County begins and ends with great taste. For more information on all great ways to explore Botetourt County visit us at www.explorebotetourt.com

38 FALL 2011 n Virginia Wine Lover

VWL 030-039 GREAT GETAWAYS 8_11.indd 38

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GREAT GETAWAYS

Loudoun County A VINTAGE DESTINATION

wine tasting, dining, et a glimpse and more. of a simpler IF YOU’RE GOING… time when Loudoun is also you visit Loudoun known as Virginia’s What to Do: County. Located horse country, and only 25 miles from what better way is North Gate Vineyards Washington, D.C., there to enjoy the 540-668-6248 Loudoun provides changing countryside www.northgate you with the perfect than from astride a vineyard.com balance of city and horse? There are many country. From the scenic parks and trails Where to Eat: tumbling hills of to ride on, as well as their horse country some of America’s Tuscarora Mill to the streets of most elegant and 703-771-9300 downtown, there is luxurious horse farms www.tuskies.com something for everyto tour. There are even one to enjoy and steeplechase races and Magnolias at the Mill experience. horse shows to attend 540-338-9800 Now that fall is if you don’t want to www.magnoliasmill.com here, it’s time to get up close and permake the most of sonal with the horses. Fireworks Pizza the superb weather. Of course, strolling 703-779-8400 An ideal way to do through the historic www.fireworkspizza.com this is to visit one downtown areas to of Loudoun’s many do some shopping is Fireworks Pizzeria & Bar (Arlington Location) wineries to enjoy a another great way to 703-527-8700 sip of wine as you get outside and enjoy www.fireworkspizza.com take in the specthat crisp fall air. From tacular colors of the old-fashioned country South Street Under changing leaves. stores to ones carry703-771-9610 Known as D.C.’s Wine ing the latest brands, www.southstreetunder.com Country, there is an Loudoun features them abounding 28 winerall. It is truly the place ies that you can visit to go to get away from and explore. Stop by North Gate Vineyard it all while still being able to enjoy your to step inside their eco-friendly buildfavorite luxuries. ing and one of the largest solar arrays in Loudoun County. While you’re there, try a sampling of their award winning wines. A great way to organize a tour would be to follow the Tuskie’s Wine Trail Map, a guide to all the wineries, as well as Tuskie’s Harvesting the Power of the Sun Dining Group restaurants and bed and to bring you fine Virginia wine breakfasts. You can pick up a map at great local restaurants like Tuscarora Mill, Fire Environmentally Conscious Works Pizza and South Street Under Deli100% Solar Powered Open Friday 11am to 8pm Bakery in Leesburg, Magnolias at the Mill Saturday thru Monday 11am to 6pm in Purcellville or Fire Works Pizzeria and 16031 Hillsboro Road Bar in Arlington. Included with the map is Purcellville, VA 20132 a Vineyard Values Savings Book, a coupon 540.668.6248 book that will let you save up to $500 on www.northgatevineyard.com www.VirginiaWineLover.com n FALL 2011

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Virginia Winery Map

Where to Find Virginia Wine

With the number of Virginia wineries surpassing 175—and no signs of slowing down—there are plenty of places to find some mighty fine wine, right from the source. On the next page is an alphabetical listing of Virginia wineries, by region, along with the city and phone number. The regions listed correspond with our Grapevine calendar of events. This listing is provided as a service to readers and wineries, which are listed free of charge. Send any changes to: patrick@virginiawinelover.com.

ROCKI ROCKINGH

Har Harriso

S-4S-4 HIGHLAND HIGHLAND

Staunton Staunton OX

S-15S-15 S-2

AUGUSTA AUGUSTA BATHBATH

SHENANDOAH

Wayn Waynesb

ROCKBRIDGES-16 ROCKBRIDGE S-16 ALLEGHANY ALLEGHANY 64

60 220

Lexington Lexington

Covington Covington

U N E K

K C

T S S E E W W

O Y

V T

BUCHANAN BUCHANAN

G RI R V

BOTETOURT BOTETOURT

AI A I NI N G

E 77

W-9W-9

WESTERN

RUSSELL RUSSELL

WISEWISE ALT 58

ALT 58

W-13 W-13

Norton Norton 72

S-19S-19

BLAND

BLAND 77

SMYTH SMYTH

WASHINGTON WASHINGTON 81

58 81

100

C-56 C-56

T E

E N

N N

N E

E S

S S

S E

E E

C-44 C-44

W-1W-1 1 1 N

C-27C-27

Martinsville Martinsville

GalaxGalax

C-24C-2 Danville Danville

HENRY HENRY

This map is intended for travel planning only and not navigational purposes. 40 FALL 2011 n Virginia Wine Lover

VWL 40-43 WINERY LISTINGS 8_11.indd 40

C C-38C-38

PATRICK PATRICK

C-3C-3

PITTSYLVANIA PITTSYLVANIA

221

W-3W-3 W-6W-6 W-128 W-12 W-8W-8 58

GRAYSON GRAYSON

221

CARROLL CARROLL 77

W-2W-2

W-4W-4

FLOYD FLOYD FRANKLIN FRANKLIN

WYTHE W-10WYTHE W-10

W-5W-5

C-49 C-49

C-25C-25

MONTGOMERY MONTGOMERY

PULASKI PULASKI

W-14 W-14

Bristol Bristol

W-7W-7

SCOTT SCOTT

W-1W-1

C-1

CAMPBEL CAMPBELL

C-61C-61

S-1S-1

ATTIMO

C-36C-36

11 460

Radford Radford

DICKENSON DICKENSON

Bedford Bedford

581

C-35C-3

Lynchburg Lynchburg

C-42 C-42

Roanoke Roanoke 581

Salem Salem TAZEWELL TAZEWELL

CC-46 81

BEDFORD BEDFORD

ROANOKE ROANOKE

AMHERST AMHERST 81

S-8S-8

CRAIG CRAIG

GILES GILES

BuenaBuena Vista Vista

S-3S-3

S-22S-22

C C-63 C-

S-11S-11

8/26/11 2:17 PM

O S-12S-12 M AM RA YR LY AL NA DN D

N-28 N-11 N-28 N-11 N-57 N-44 N-44 N-7N-7 N-16 N-16N-57 N-27 N-27 N-29 N-29 N-20 N-20 N-34 Winchester Winchester N-17 N-34 N-43 N-17 N-43 N-22 N-22 N-35 N-35 N-60 N-60 N-55 S-18S-18 N-55 S-21S-21 N-1N-1N-21 N-21 S-20S-20 N-31 N-31 N-9 N-9 N-5 CLARKE N-5 CLARKE N-65 N-65 NORTH MOUNTAIN N-63 N-63 THREE FOX LOUDOUN LOUDOUN WARREN WARREN S-14S-14 N-51 N-51 N-56 N-56 N-41N-19 N-19 N-6 N-41 N-6 81 81 N-14 N-14 Falls Falls N-58 N-49 S-9S-9 N-58 Front Royal Front Royal N-49 Church Church SHENANDOAH SHENANDOAH N-62 N-62 N-12 N-12 N-2N-2 SHENANDOAH N-3 N-3 N-33 N-33 S-17S-17 VINEYARD N-64 N-64 N-8 N-8 WASHINGTON, WASHINGTON, D.C. D.C. Fairfax Fairfax S-10S-10N-13 N-18 N-13N-18 Alexandria Alexandria S-24S-24 N-15 WOLF GAP N-15 N-39 N-39 66 66 N-47 N-47 N-52 N-52 N-48 N-48 S-6S-6 S-5S-5 N-46 Manassas N-46 Manassas FAUQUIER FAUQUIER N-36 N-36 Park &Park & N-30 95 95 FAIRFAX FAIRFAX N-4N-4N-30 Manassas Manassas N-61 N-61 RAPPAHANNOCK N-42 RAPPAHANNOCK N-38 N-42 N-38 PRINCE PRINCE CAVE RIDGE WILLIAM WILLIAM N-23 N-25 N-59N-24 N-23 N-59 N-25 N-24 PAGEPAGE N-40 N-40 N-54 N-54 ROCKINGHAM ROCKINGHAM CULPEPER CULPEPER S-23S-23 N-50 N-50 STAFFORD STAFFORD N-53 N-53 C-19C-19 Harrisonburg 81 81 Harrisonburg 1 1 DuCARD N-45 N-45 C-45 95 C-45 95 OLD HOUSE N-26 N-26 N-10 N-10 C-54C-10C-10 C-54 MADISON MADISON KINGKING E-12E-12 C-41C-41 S-4S-4 S-7S-7 GEORGE GEORGE BLUESTONE Fredericksburg C-52C-52 Fredericksburg VINEYARD C-5C-5 Staunton GREENE Staunton GREENE C-33C-33 ORANGE OX EYE ORANGE E-10E-10 SPOTSYLVANIA SPOTSYLVANIA N-37 N-37 C-40 C-22C-22 C-6C-6 WESTMO S-15S-15 C-40 WESTM ORELARE LAND C-60 C-60 ND N-32 N-32 C-1 1 C-28 C-1 1 C-28 E-9E-9 S-2S-2 ALBEMARLE ALBEMARLE E-7E-7 C-51 C-14C-14 AFTON C-51 202 202 MOUNTAIN Charlottesville 64 64 Charlottesville ESSEX ESSEX 3 E-5 NO NO 3 E-5 C-32 C-32 C-43 C-43 C-1C-1 R R C-34C-34 E-2E-2 203 203 E-15 17 17 C-59 C-59 Waynesboro E-15 THUMTHB UMB Waynesboro CAROLINE CAROLINE C-57C-57 ER ERL 360 360 LA A C-21C-21 C-2C-2C-53C-53 C-31C-31 ND ND C-13C-13 LOUISA LOUISA C-15C-15 95 95 C-7 C-7 R C-26C-26 C-58 R ICH ICH 3 3 C-58 FLUVANNA 201 201 E-1 E-1 FLUVANNA MO MO C-63 C-63 ND ND 200 200 C-16C-16 C-20C-20 C-62 C-23C-23 C-62 C-39C-39 LA LA 3 3E-6E-6 KIN KIN NC NC C-55 C-55 C-17C-17 GA GA GOOCHLAND GOOCHLAND AS AS 64 HANOVER HANOVER 64 ND ND NELSON NELSON 354 354 TER TER QU QU C-12C-12 E-16E-16 EEN EEN C-37C-37 C-30C-30 KI KI NORTH GATE

FREDERICK FREDERICK

NORTHERN

S-16S-16

aBuena a Vista

C-46 C-46

BUCKINGHAM BUCKINGHAM

C-35C-35

Lynchburg Lynchburg

36C-36

C-27C-27

E-11E-11 E-13E-13 64

C-64 C-64

CHARLESJAMES CHARLES JAMES CITYCITY CITYCITY

Colonial Colonial Heights Heights

E-4E-4

Eastville Eastville

YORKYORK 64

Poquoson Poquoson

Hampton Hampton

Portsmouth 64 Portsmouth

Norfolk Norfolk

LUNENBURG LUNENBURG SUSSEX SUSSEX BRUNSWICK BRUNSWICK

HALIFAX HALIFAX

264

Emporia Emporia

GREENSVILLE GREENSVILLE

264

Virginia Virginia Beach Beach

SOUTHAMPTON SOUTHAMPTON

MECKLENBURG MECKLENBURG

ISLE ISLE OF OF WIGHT WIGHT

C-24C-24

NORTHAMPTON NORTHAMPTON

C-4C-4 C-9C-9 C-29C-29 C-38C-38

Nassawadox Nassawadox

MATHEWS MATHEWS

GLOUCESTER GLOUCESTER

E-14E-14

PRINCE PRINCE GEORGE GEORGE SURRY SURRY

CHARLOTTE C-48CHARLOTTE C-48

Exmore Exmore

Hopewell Hopewell

Petersburg Petersburg DINWIDDIE DINWIDDIE

Accomac OnancockAccomac Onancock OnleyOnley

Williamsburg Williamsburg

NOTTOWAY NOTTOWAY

EDWARD EDWARD

E-3E-3 ACCOMACK ACCOMACK

E-8E-8

EASTERN

AMELIA AMELIA

C-50PRINCE C-50 PRINCE

s w Ne rt ws po e w tN Ne por w Ne

VANIA A

C-8C-8

C-18C-18 CAMPBELL CAMPBELL

Bloxom Bloxom

MIDDLESEX MIDDLESEX

NEWNEW KENTKENT

CHESTERFIELD CHESTERFIELD

Richmond Richmond

POWHATAN POWHATAN

CENTRAL

APPOMATTOX APPOMATTOX

Chincoteagu Chincoteague

NG NG WI WI LLI LLI AM AM

HE HE NR NR ICO ICO

AMHERST AMHERST

MB ER L CU MB AND ER LA ND

UGUSTA STA

Franklin Franklin

Suffolk Suffolk

Chesapeake Chesapeake

C-47 C-47 C

See next page for our coresponding winery listing.

www.VirginiaWineLover.com n FALL 2011

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O Virginia Winery Listing

S-4 Bluestone Vineyard

CENTRAL WESTERN

WESTERN REGION W-1 Attimo Winery

Bridgewater- 22812 S-19 Valhalla Vineyards Roanoke – 4828 Spring Creek Rd, 540–725–9463 540-828-0099 www.bluestone vineyard.com S-20 Veramar Winery Berryville – Hours: Nov-Mar; Thurs540–955–5510 Mon Noon-6pm; April-Oct; Mon-Thurs 11-6pm, Fri-Sat 11-7pm S-21 Vino Curioso Winchester – Sun 1-6pm 703-447-0648 Cave Ridge Mt. Jackson 22842 S-22 Virginia Mountain Vineyards 1476 Conicville Rd 540Fincastle – 477-2585 540–473–2979 www.caveridge.com Hours: Wed-Sat 11am5:30pm, Sun Noon-5pm S-23 Wisteria Farm & Vineyard Stanley – Crooked Run Cellars Mount Jackson – 540-742-1489 540-477-9030 S-24 Wolf Gap Cross Keys Vineyards Edinburgh 22824 123 Mt. Crawford – Stout Rd 540-984-3306 540-234-0505 www.wolfgap vineyard.com Fincastle Vineyard Hours Mar-Nov 11am& Winery 6pm daily except Fincastle – Wednesdays 540-591-9000

W-2 Abingdon

Vineyard & Winery Abingdon – 276-623-1255

W-3 Blacksnake Meadery

S-6

Dugspur – 540-834-6172

W-4 Brooks Mill Winery

S-7

Wirtz – 540-721-5215

W-5 Coltsfoot Winery

S-8

Abingdon 888-685-8750

W-6 Chateau Morrisette

S-9 Fox Meadow Winery

Winery Floyd – 540-593-9218

Linden - 22642 3310 Freezeland Road 540-636-6677 www.foxmeadow winery.com May-Dec Mon.-Fri. 11am-5pm Sat.-Sun. 11am-6pm

W-7 Davis Valley Winery and Vineyard Rural Retreat – 276-686-8855

W-8 Foggy Ridge Cider Dugspur – 276-398-2337

Christiansburg– 24073 4771 Childress Road 540-382-7619 www.attimowinery.com April-June Fri.-Sun. 2pm-6pm Summer Wed.-Sun. S-5 11am-6pm

S-10 Glen Manor Vineyard Front Royal – 540-635-6324

W-9 Mountain Rose

S-11 Lexington Valley

Vineyards Wise – 276–328–2013

W-10 Rural Retreat Winery & Dye’s Vineyards Rural Retreat 276-686-8300

W-11 Stanburn Winery Stuart 276-694-7074

Vineyards Rockbridge Baths – 540-462-2974

S-12 Misty Mountain Meadworks Winchester – 540-888-4420

NORTHERN SHENANDOAH EASTERN CENTRAL WESTERN

NORTHERN REGION 571-439-2255

N-2 Aspen Dale Winery Delaplane – 540-364-6178 N-3 Barrel Oak Winery Delaplane – 703-798-8308

N-4 N-5

S-15 Ox Eye Vineyards

N-7

Mauertown 22644 4374 Swartz Rd 540-436-9463 www.northmountainvineyard.com Hours N-6 Fri-Mon 11am-6pm and by appointment

Winery Floyd – 540–593–3100

W-13 Vincent’s Vineyard Lebanon – 276-889-2505

Staunton - 24401 44 Middlebrooks Avenue 540-849-7926 www.oxeye vinyards.com Thurs.-Fri. 11am-5pm Saturday 10am-5pm Sunday 12pm-4pm

W-14 West Wind Farm

Vineyard & Winery Max Meadows – 276-699-2020 NORTHERN SHENANDOAH EASTERN

S-16 Rockbridge Vineyard Raphine – 540-377-6204

CENTRAL WESTERN

SHENANDOAH REGION

S-17 Shenandoah Vineyard

S-1 AmRhein Wine Cellars Bent Mountain – 540-929-4632 S-2 Barren Ridge Vineyards Fishersville – 540-248-3300

N-13 Chester Gap Cellars

N-34 Lost Creek Winery

N-14 Chrysalis Vineyards

N-35 Loudoun Valley

Front Royal – 540-636-8086

Middleburg – 540-687-8222

N-15 Cobbler Mountain Cellars Delaplane 540-364-2802

Leesburg – 703-443-9836

Vineyards Waterford – 540–882–3375

N-36 Marterella Wineries Warrenton – 540-347-1119

N-16 Corcoran Vineyards

N-37 Mattaponi Winery

N-17 Crushed Cellars Purcellville 571-374-WINE (9463)

N-38 Mediterranean Cellars Warrenton – 540–428–1984

Waterford – 540-882-9073

N-18 Desert Rose Ranch & Winery 540-635-3200

N-19 Delaplane Cellars Delaplane – 540-592-7210

N-20 Doukenie Winery Purcellville – 540–668–6464

N-21 Dry Mill Vineyards Winery Leesburg – 571-271-6799

N-22 Fabbioli Cellars Leesburg – 703-771-1197

N-23 Gadino Cellars Washington – 540-987-9292

N-1 8 Chains North Winery Waterford – N-24 Granite Heights

S-14 North Mountain

W-12 Villa Appalaccia

Tavern Winery Bluemont – 202-255-509

Eagle Rock – 540-798-7642

EASTERN

S-3 Blue Ridge Vineyard S-18 Twin Oaks

NORTHERN SHENANDOAH

Orchard and Winery Warrenton 540-349-5185

Spotsylvania – 540-582-2897

N-39 Miracle Valley Vineyards Delaplane – 540-364-0228

N-40 Molon Lave

Vineyards Warrenton – 540-439-5460

N-41 Naked Mountain Vineyard Markham – 540–364–1609

N-42 Narmada Winery Amissville – 540-937-8215

N-43 North Gate

Vineyard Purcelleville – 20132 16031 Hillsboro Rd 540-668-6248 www.northgate vineyard.com Open Friday 11am-8pm

N-25 Gray Ghost Vineyards N-44 Notaviva Vineyards Amissville – 540-937-4869

Purcellville – 540-668-6756

N-52 Rappahannock Cellars Huntly – 540-635-9398

N-53 Rogers Ford

Farm Winery Sumerduck – 540-439-3707

N-54 Sharp Rock Vineyards Sperryville – 540–987–9700

N-55 Sunset Hills

Vineyard Purcellville – 703-725-3546

N-56 Swedenburg

Estate Vineyard Middleburg – 540–687–5219

N-57 Tarara Winery Leesburg – 703-771-7100

N-58 Three Fox Vineyards Delaplane – 20144 10100 Three Fox Land 540-364-6073 www.threefox vinyards.com Mon., Thurs.-Sat. 11am-5pm Sunday 12pm-5pm

N-59 Unicorn Winery Amissville – 540–349–5885

N-60 Village Winery Waterford – 540–882–3780

N-61 Vint Hill Craft Winery Vint Hill – 703-991-0191

N-62 Vintage Ridge Vineyard Rectortown – 540-364-3371

N-63 Willowcroft Farm Vineyards Vineyards Leesburg – Berry Hill Vineyard Culpeper – 22701 703-777-8161 Flint Hill 18351 Corkys Lane 540-675-2205 540–423–1032 N-27 Hidden Brook Winery www.oldhouse Leesburg – N-64 The Winery at La Grange vineyards.com Bluemont Vineyard 703–737–3935 Haymarket – Mon.-Fri. 1pm - 5pm Bluemont – 703-753-9360 Saturday - 11am - 5pm 540-554-8439 N-28 Hiddencroft Sunday - 12pm - 5pm Vineyards Boxwood Winery Lovettsville – N-65 Zephaniah Farm Vineyard Middleburg – 540-535-5367 N-46 Paradise Springs Leesburg – Winery 540-687-9770 703-431-2016 Clifton – Hillsborough N-29 703-830-9463 Breaux Vineyards Vineyards Hillsboro – Purcellville – 540-668-6299 540-668-6216 N-47 Pearmund Cellars Broad Run – 540-347-3475 Capitol Vineyards N-30 Hume Vineyards Delplane Hume – 845-598-2662 540-364-2587 N-48 Philip Carter Winery EASTERN Hume – Casanel Vineyards REGION N-31 Hunter’s Run 540-364-1203 Leesburg – Wine Barn 540-751-1776 Hamilton E-1 Athena Vineyards 703-926-4183 & Winery N-49 Piedmont Vineyards & Winery Castle Gruen Heathsville – The Plains – Vineyards and 804-580-7327 N-32 Lake Anna Winery 540-687-5528 Winery Spotsylvania – Locust Dale – 540-0895-5085 E-2 Belle Mount 540-229-2498 Vineyards N-50 Potomac Point Vineyard & Winery Warsaw – N-33 Linden Vineyards Stafford – Catoctin Creek Winery Linden – 804-333-4700 540-446-2266 Purcellville 540-364-1997 540-668-7707 E-3 Bloxom Vineyard Bloxom – N-51 Quattro Gombas Winery Chateau O’Brien 757-665-5670 Aldie – at Northpoint 703-327-6542 Markham – E-4 Chatham Vineyards 540-364-6441 Machipongo – Eastern Region 757-678-5588 N-26 Hartwood Winery Fredericksburg – 540–752–4893

N-45 Old House

NORTHERN

SHENANDOAH

N-8 N-9 N-10

Edinburgh 22824 3659 S. Ox Rd 540-984-8699 www.shentel.net/ N-11 shenvine Hours Mar-Nov daily 10am-6pm; Dec-Feb daily 10am-5pm N-12

EASTERN

CENTRAL

WESTERN

FALL 2011 n Virginia Wine Lover

VWL 40-43 WINERY LISTINGS 8_11.indd 42

8/26/11 2:18 PM

E-5 General’s Ridge

C-6 Barboursville

E-6 Good Luck Cellars

C-7 Blenheim Vineyards C-27 The Homeplace

Vineyards Barboursville – 540-832-3824

Vineyard Hague 804-472-3172 Kilmarnock 757-472-6973

Charlottesville – 434-293-5366

E-7 The Hague Winery

C-8 Bodie Vineyards

E-8 Holly Grove

C-9 Bright Meadows

Hague – 804-472-5283 Vineyards Franktown – 757-442-2844

E-9 Hummel Vineyards Montross – Eastern Region 804-493-1554

E-10 Ingleside Vineyards Oak Grove – 804–224–8687

Powhatan 804-598-2625

Farm Vineyard & Winery Nathalie – 434-349-5349

C-10 Brightwood

Vineyard & Farm Brightwood 540-948-6845

C-11 Burnley Vineyards & Daniel Cellars Barboursville – 540-832-2828

E-11 New Kent Winery

New Kent County – 804-932-8240

C-12 Byrd Cellars

Goochland – 804-475-8536

E-12 Oak Crest Winery King George – 540–663–2813

C-13 Cardinal Point

Vineyard & Winery Afton – 540-456-8400

E-13 Saude Creek

Vineyards Williamsburg– 804-843-7100

C-14 Castle Hill Cider Keswick 434-971-8887

E-14 The Williamsburg Winery Williamsburg – 757-229-0999

C-15 Cooper Vineyards Louisa – 540-894-5253

E-15 Vault Field

C-16 DelFosse Vineyard

Vineyards Kinsale – 804-472-4430

and Winery Faber – 434-263-6100

E-16 White Fences

C-17 Democracy

Vineyard Irvington – 804-438-5559

Vineyard Lovingston – 434-964-6124

C-18 Devault Family

NORTHERN

Vineyards Concord 434-993-0722

SHENANDOAH EASTERN CENTRAL WESTERN

CENTRAL REGION

C-19 DuCard Vineyards

C-1 Afton Mountain

Vineyards Afton – 22920 234 Vineyard Land 540-456-8667 www.aftonmountain C-20 vineyards.com Wed.-Mon. 10am-6pm

C-2 Albemarle

Ciderworks North Garden 434-297-2326

C-21

C-3 Alta Vista Vineyards C-22 Hurt 434-324-4160

C-4 Annefield

Vineyards Saxe – 434-454-7559

C-5 Autumn Hill

Vineyards Standardsville – 424-985-6100

C-23 C-24

C-25

C-26 Hill Top Berry

Farm & Winery Nellysford – 434-361-1266 Vineyard Chatham 434-432-9463

C-28 Horton Cellars Winery Gordonsville – 540-832-7440 C-29 Hunting Creek Vineyards Clover – 434-454-9219

C-48 Sans Soucy Vineyards Brookneal – 434-376 –9463

C-49 Savoy-Lee Winery 540-297-9275

C-50 Spring Creek Wine Cellar Pamplin – 434-248-6981

C-51 Stinson Vineyards Crozet 434-823-7300

C-52 Stone Mountain

Vineyards Dyke – 434–990–9463

C-30 James River Cellars C-53 Sugarleaf Vineyards Glen Allen – 804–550–7516

North Garden – 434-984-4272

C-31 Jefferson Vineyards C-54 Sweely Estate Winery Charlottesville – 434-977-3042

C-32 Keswick Vineyards 434-244-3341

C-33 Kilaurwen Winery Stanardsville 434-985-2535

C-34 King Family

Vineyards Crozet – 434-823-7800

C-35 Lazy Days Winery Amherst 434-381-6088

C-36 Leo Grande Winery 540-586-4066

C-37 Lovingston Winery Lovingston – 434–263–4533

C-38 Molliver Vineyards 434-349-1000

C-39 Mountain Cove Vineyard & Wine Garden Lovingston – 434–263–5392

C-40 Mountfair Vineyards

Madison – 540-948-9005

C-55 Thistle Gate Vineyard Scottsville 434-386-7781

C-56 Tomahawk Mill Winery Chatham – 434–432–1063

C-57 Veritas Winery Afton – 540-456-8000

C-58 Virginia Wineworks Charlottesville – 434-923-8314

C-59 Weston Farm

Fountain Hall Bed & Breakfast Historic Culpeper, VA www.fountainhall.com 800-29-VISIT (800-298-4748)

Vineyard & Winery Louisa 540-967-4647

C-60 White Hall Vineyards White Hall – 434-823-8615

C-61 White Rock

Vineyards & Winery 540-890-3359

C-62 Windsong Winery Columbia 804-457-2865

Crozet – Etlan – 22719 434-823-7605 C-63 Wintergreen Winery 40 Gibson Hollow Lane Nellysford – 540-923-4206 434-361-2519 C-41 Neala Estate www.ducard Vineyards vineyards.com Madison – C-64 Woodland Vineyard Fri.-Sun. (And Monday Farm Winery 540-948-6570 Holidays) 11am-6pm Midlothian – 804-739-2774 C-42 Peaks of First Colony Winery Otter Winery Charlottesville – 540–586–3707 434–979–7105 C-43 Pollak Vineyards Flying Fox Greenwood – 540-456-8844 Vineyard Afton – 434-361-1692 C-44 Preston Ridge Winery Martinsville Glass House Winery 276-957-2100 Free Union 434-975-0094 C-45 Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery Grayhaven Winery Leon – 540-547-3707 Gum Springs – 804-556-3917 C-46 Rebec Vineyards Amherst – Greenwood 434–946–5168 Vineyards Vernon Hill – 434-579-2836 C-47 Rosemont Vineyards & Winery LaCrosse – Hickory Hill 434-636-9463 Vineyards 540–296–1393

A Tuscan getaway

close to home.

Thank you to all the wine lovers that voted for us as the Best Winery Overall in Virginia! Posh would like to thank you for voting him best Virginia wine dog! Tasting Room Hours: Open Year Round Thursday-Saturday, & Monday 11-5 • Sunday 12-5 Mention or bring this ad for a

complimentary tasting for two through 12/31/2011

10100 Three Fox Lane, Delaplane, VA 540-364-6073 www.threefoxvineyards.com www.VirginiaWineLover.com n FALL 2011

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WINERY MAP • LISTING • REGIONAL AUTUMN EVENTS

A SELECTION OF WINE EVENTS IN VIRGINIA CUVEE TASTING Nov. 25. Speical tasting of Cuvee Neubia. $. 11 a.m. Sugarleaf Vineyards.

WESTERN CINEMA ON THE LAWN Sept. 3. Enjoy Hitchcock’s classic “Dial M for Murder” outside at the vineyards; food and wine available for purchase. $. 8 p.m. Château Morrisette. MOONLIGHT STOMP Sept. 3. Grape-stomping event featuring the music of 1 Mile Ford, bonfires and marshmallow roasting. Food and wine available for purchase. $. 5 p.m. AmRhein Wine Cellars. FALL OPEN HOUSE Oct. 1. Enjoy cider tastings, artisan pizzas from Dogtown Pizza and music by Eldon Gardner; learn about heirloom apples with Tom Burford, apple expert. $. 11 a.m. Foggy Ridge Cider. GRAPE STOMP & HARVEST FESTIVAL Oct. 1. Hayrides through the vineyard, enjoy lunch, stomp grapes and more. $. 11 a.m. MountainRose Vineyards. WINE & SWINE CONCERT Oct. 1. The final concert of this year’s season features music by the Key West Band, with barbecue and wine available for purchase. $. 5 p.m. West Wind Farm Vineyard & Winery.

BLACK DOG WINE & ROCK FESTIVAL Oct. 8. An afternoon of live music, artisans, food and craft vendors and tastings. $. 11:30 a.m. Château Morrisette. CHEESES OF ITALY & VIRGINIA Oct. 8–9. Sample more than 15 imported and regional cheeses paired with wine. $. Noon. Villa Appalaccia. OKTOBERFEST Oct. 15. Enjoy barrel rolling/riding competitions, live music and entertainment. Wine and food available for purchase, or pack a picnic. $. 2 p.m. AmRhein Wine Cellars. FALL TREATS Oct. 22. Visit Foggy Ridge Cider and Blacksnake Meadery to sample mead and cider paired with seasonal treats. 11 a.m. Foggy Ridge Cider and Blacksnake Meadery. HOLLY DAYS Dec. 10–11. Features wine tastings, mulled wine, winery tours and discounts on wine purchases. 11 a.m. AmRhein Wine Cellars.

SHENANDOAH FINCASTLE CONCERT SERIES Sept. 3. Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy wine tastings and the music of three bands; food available for

purchase. $. 6 p.m. Fincastle Vineyard and Winery. HARVEST FESTIVAL Sept. 10. Welcome the harvest with wine tastings, seminars, arts and crafts, live music, grape stomping and children’s entertainment. $. 11 a.m. Shenandoah Vineyards. GENTLEMEN’S EVENING Sept. 24. A event for the guys featuring wine tastings and chicken wings. Reservations required. $. Noon. Veramar Vineyard. UNCORKED AND UNPLUGGED Sept. 25. Enjoy live acoustic music

from Toni William and New Plank Road while sampling wines. 2 p.m. Rockbridge Vineyard. HARVEST FESTIVAL Oct. 1. Celebrate the end of harvest with live music, hay rides, vineyard tours and wine tastings. $. Noon. Rockbridge Vineyard. WINE, MOON & STARS Oct. 7. Enjoy live music, wine tastings and chili, a brief astronomical discussion with John Goss of the Roanoke Astronomy Club, and view the night sky through telescopes in the vineyard. $. 6 p.m. Virginia Mountain Vineyards.

VIRGINIA GARLIC FESTIVAL Oct. 8–9. Enjoy wines from five local vineyards, food and craft vendors, live entertainment and a garlic cook-off. $. 10 a.m. Rebec Vineyards.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GRAPE STOMP & HARVEST FESTIVAL

PHOTO COURTESY OF ADRIANE NEUMEISTER

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O HOT AIR BALLOON, WINE & MUSIC FESTIVAL Oct. 14–16. The 15th annual festival includes regional wines, live entertainment, music, food and hot air balloons. $. At Historic Long Branch. www.historiclong branch.com

Grapevine

ITALIAN HARVEST FEAST Sept. 24. A traditional five-course Italian feast prepared by Chefs Cesare Lanfranconi and Shannon Overmiller, with wine pairings. Reservations required. $. 1 p.m. Barboursville Vineyards.

WINE & CHEESE FONDUE ALFRESCO Oct. 22. A wine and cheese fondue event outside under the gazebo. Reservations required. $. Noon. Veramar Vineyard.

SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE WINE FESTIVAL Sept. 24–25. A two-day festival featuring wines from 27 area vineyards and 85 juried craft and food vendors. $. 11 a.m. At LakeWatch Plantation. www.visitsmithmountainlake.com

WINE AND UNWIND FESTIVAL Sunday Oct 23 2011 Salem Civic Center—more info on www.s-rcchamber.org SHENANDOAH UNCORKED III Nov. 12. Indoor-Outdoor Free Family Festival featuring childrens activities, food, entertainment and 8 vineyards from the Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail for $15 tasting (including glass) by the Yellow Barn at Shenandoah Caverns. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $ CHRISTMAS WINTER FEST Dec. 3. Enjoy a tree lighting ceremony with a free glass of mulled wine and cookies; wine tasting and gift discounts will be offered. 5:45 p.m. Veramar Vineyard. HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Dec. 3–4. Sample specialty snacks paired with wine while shopping for holiday gifts. Shenandoah Vineyards.

CENTRAL BIRTH OF DEMOCRACY FESTIVAL Sept. 3. Sample and buy wine; enjoy live, local music and craft vendors; food available for purchase. A traditional blessing of the harvest will take place at 4:30. $. Noon. Democracy Vineyards. HARVEST WINE FESTIVAL Sept. 3. Taste wines from four wineries; enjoy live music, wine seminars, tours and food and craft vendors. $. Noon. James River Cellars. FLIP-FLOP FRIDAY Sept. 9. Enjoy the music of Laura Adcock, with wine tasting and sangria. $. 6 p.m. The Homeplace Vineyard.

the Central Virginia Land Conservancy. $. 3 p.m. Lazy Days Winery.

GRAPE STOMP & HARVEST FESTIVAL Oct. 1. Hayrides through the vineyard, enjoy lunch, stomp grapes and more. $. 11 a.m. Mountain Rose Vineyards. SHRIMP & WINE FESTIVAL Sept. 10. Second annual festival features wines from five area vineyards, arts & crafts vendors, food, live music and local shrimp. $. Noon. Sans Soucy Vineyards.

HARVEST BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL Sept. 24–25. An annual bluegrass event hosted by Grayhaven and White Hawk Music Café, featuring live music and local wine. $. Grayhaven Winery. FESTIVAL OF GRAPES & HOPS Oct. 1. An afternoon of Virginia wines and beers, food and entertainment. $. 11 a.m. In Old Town Petersburg. www.petersburg vachamber.com/winefestival

A New, Boutique Winery in a Majestic Mountain Setting

SPCA WINE TASTING FUNDRAISER Sept. 10. This third annual benefit for the Fluvanna SPCA will feature Keswick Vineyards wines, a dessert bar and a silent auction. $. 1 p.m. Keswick Vineyards. HARVEST PARTY Sept. 17. This fifth annual event features wine tasting paired with light snacks; gourmet lunch available for purchase. Reservation required for lunch. $. 11 a.m. Sugarleaf Vineyards. HARVEST JUBILEE & WINE FESTIVAL Sept. 17. Twelfth annual festival includes tastings from seven area wineries, children’s activities, craft and food vendors. $. Noon. At Avoca Museum. www.avocamuseum.org LAND JAM Sept. 18. Enjoy live music, gourmet food and wine; proceeds to benefit

O ur gorgeous new tasting room is nestled at

the eastern edge of Shenandoah National Park, in the shadow of Old Rag Mountain and White Oak Canyon. Relax and take in the scenery from our mountain-view and streamside patios.

540.923.4206 | ducardvineyards.com www.VirginiaWineLover.com n FALL 2011

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WINE & BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL Oct. 1–2. Enjoy the music of Jackass Flats, Hickory Ridge and A Good Natured Riot; food and craft vendors, hay rides, vineyard tours and wine tastings. $. Chrysalis Vineyards.

TOMAHAWK MILL HALLOWEEN Oct. 29. A Halloween event for adults featuring wine, gourmet food and readings from the work of Edgar Allen Poe. Reservations required. $. 7 p.m. Tomahawk Mill Vineyard & Winery.

THOMAS JEFFERSON WINE FESTIVAL Nov. 19. Features Virginia wineries, artisans and food vendors, live musical entertainment. $. 11 a.m. At Poplar Forest. www.poplarforest.org/events/wine-festival

OYSTER ROAST Oct. 29–30. Enjoy wine tasting, Rappahannock River Oyster Co. oysters and live music. $. Noon. Cardinal Point Vineyard & Winery.

CUVEE TASTING Nov. 25. Speical tasting of Cuvee Neubia. $. 11 a.m. Sugarleaf Vineyards.

OPEN HOUSE Oct. 29–30. Twelfth annual event featuring small, private tours of the wine cave, wine tastings from the barrel with winemaker Chris Breiner; vertical tasting available. $. 11 a.m. Stone Mountain Vineyards.

PEAK FOLIAGE OPEN HOUSE Oct.1–2. Sample apples, fresh cider, and wines. Noon. Peaks of Otter Winery. SOUTH HILL WINE FESTIVAL Oct. 1. Features local wines, food, live music and art. $. Noon. At Centennial Park. www.southhillrotaryclub.org WOODLAND HARVEST PARTY Oct. 8. Celebrate the finish of the harvest; enjoy tastings, light hors d’oeuvres and wine ice cream. $. Noon. Woodland Vineyard.

PICK OF THE PIEDMONT WINE FESTIVAL Oct. 22–23. Twelve area wineries, food vendors and live music will be featured at this fall festival. $. 11 a.m. At Booster Park. www.visitorangevirginia.com FALL FOLIAGE OPEN HOUSE Oct. 22–23. Sample light snacks paired with wines. 11 a.m. Hill Top Berry Farm & Winery.

THE OPPORTUNITY BALL Oct. 30. This sixth-annual benefit for the Nelson County Community Fund will be Halloween-themed and includes a five-course, winepaired meal and dancing. Reservations required. $. 5:30 p.m. Veritas Vineyards & Winery. FALL BARREL TASTING Nov. 5–6. Taste 2010 and 2011 wines from the barrel. $. Horton Vineyards. FRENCH CRÊPE DAY Nov. 6. Crêpes and wine available for purchase at the vineyard. $. 1 p.m. DelFosse Vineyards & Winery.

OPEN HOUSE Nov. 25–26. Enjoy wine, Horton Norton chili, and hot soup; special discounts available on wine purchases. $. Horton Vineyards. THANKSGIVING OPEN HOUSE Nov. 25–27. Taste new releases, including Cabernet Sauvignon, and hot mulled wine with complimentary nibbles available. 11 a.m. Burnley Vineyards. OPEN HOUSE Nov. 25–27. Enjoy complimentary wine tasting, holiday refreshments, hot mulled wine and unique gift shopping. 10 a.m. Wintergreen Winery. HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Nov. 25–27. Stop by for hot mulled wine, seasonal snacks and holiday shopping. Hickory Hill Vineyards & Winery.

CHESAPEAKE BAY WINE FESTIVAL Sept. 24–25. Features a grape stomp, live music, food, art and craft vendors, children’s activities and wine tastings and sales from 10 regional vineyards including newly-opened Good Luck Cellars. $. 11 a.m. At Stratford Hall. www.chesapeakebaywinefestival.com

TASTE OF BRUNSWICK Oct., 8. Come and enjoy the 15th Annual Taste of Brunswick festival and Brunswick stew cook off. www.tasteofbrunswick festinal.com VIRGINIA GARLIC FESTIVAL Oct. 8–9. Enjoy wines from five local vineyards, food and craft vendors, live entertainment and a garlic cook-off. $. 10 a.m. Rebec Vineyards. FALL BARREL TASTING Oct. 15–16, 22–23. Bring a picnic and enjoy cellar tours, samples and tasting of 2011 wines and homemade soup. $. Autumn Hill Vineyards. 46 FALL 2011 n Virginia Wine Lover

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TOWN POINT VIRGINIA WINE FESTIVAL Oct. 15–16. An outdoor festival featuring wines from more than 30 Virginia wineries, live music and gourmet food and craft vendors. $. 11 a.m. At Town Point Park. www.festevents. HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Nov. 26–27. Sample wines by the fireplace with samplings from Palladio Restaurant. Noon. Barboursville Vineyards. JINGLE BELL WINE TRAIL Dec. 3–4. Tour the Cooper, Grayhaven, Lake Anna and James River Cellars wineries; enjoy special promotions and light snacks at each stop. $. Buy tickets at www.HOVAwinetrail.com HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Dec. 3–4. Enjoy samples of gourmet food, wine tastings, tours and holiday wine specials. 10 a.m. Prince Michel Winery. WINE WINGS AND WHEELS Orange county www.orangevachamber.com/Festival.16.0html for more info

NORTHERN WINE FESTIVAL AT THE PLAINS Sept. 10–11. Features tastings from local wineries, art and gourmet food vendors, bagpipe bands, carriage rides, live classical music, and the 26th Annual Commonwealth Cup of Polo. $. 11 a.m. At Great Meadow Event Center. www.winefestivalattheplains.com WINEMAKER’S DINNER Sept. 17. A gourmet dinner prepared by Chef Eric Stamer paired with Naked Mountain wines. $. Reservations required. Naked Mountain Winery & Vineyards. VIRGINIA WINE FESTIVAL Sept. 17–18. Longest running wine festival on the East Coast; more than 400 wines to sample paired

with food, entertainment. $. Bull Run Regional Park, Centreville. www.vintagevirginia.com LUCY STOMP Sept. 24. The fourth annual “stomp like Lucy” event; includes Lucy/Ricky/Fred/Ethel costume contest and wine tasting. Three Fox Vineyards. TASTE OF ITALY Sept. 24. A day of authentic Italian food, music, dance, grape stomping, vineyards tours, wine tasting and activities for the kids. $. Noon. Doukénie Winery.

FALL HARVEST FESTIVAL Oct. 8. An annual festival featuring live bluegrass music, raffles, tastings and new wine releases. $. Noon. Sharp Rock Vineyards. FOUNDER’S DAY CELEBRATION Oct. 8. Enjoy live music while learning more about Gadino wines and wine-making with vineyard and cellar tours and tastings. Gadino Cellars. WEST END ART & WINE FESTIVAL Oct. 8–9. A weekend event featuring DelFosse wines, more than 90 juried artists, crafters and

OLD HOUSE VINEYARDS October 15 — 10th Annual Cook Off Join us for an afternoon of chili, wine tasting and live music. 11am5pm, no fee. 540-423-1032 • www.oldhousevineyards.com OLD HOUSE VINEYARDS October 22 — Country Western BBQ Join us for live Bluegrass, BBQ and dancing. 5:30-9:30pm, reservations only, $35/person. 540-423-1032 • www.oldhousevineyards.com OCTOBERFEST Oct. 22. An evening of wine, authentic German food, silent auction and local music from Michael Wheelehan. Reservations required. $. 5 p.m. Lake Anne Winery.

FALL WINE FESTIVAL Sept. 30–Oct. 2. Enjoy live blues, wine from 16 Virginia wineries and special evening tours of George Washington’s home. $. 6 p.m. At Mount Vernon. www.MountVernon.org CHOMP & STOMP WEEKEND Oct. 1–2. Learn about wine-making and try your hand at grape stomping; tastings and local farm vendors will be available. Noon. Barrel Oak Winery. WINE & BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL Oct. 1–2. Enjoy the music of Jackass Flats, Hickory Ridge and A Good Natured Riot; food and craft vendors, hay rides, vineyard tours and wine tastings. $. Chrysalis Vineyards. JOURNEY 4A CURE FEST Oct. 8. Wine tasting, food, music to benefit pediatric cancer research. $. 11 a.m. Bull Run Regional Park, Centreville. www.journey4acure.org

HOLLY DAYS Dec. 10–11. Features wine tastings, mulled wine, winery tours and discounts on wine purchases. 11 a.m. AmRhein Wine Cellars.

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FREDERICKSBURG AREA WINE FESTIVAL Oct. 8–9. The 21st annual festival features wines from eight Virginia wineries, microbrew and food vendors, crafters and artisans, live music and children’s entertainment. $. 11 a.m. At Old Mill Park. www.fredericksburgwine.com

live entertainment; food from local restaurants available for purchase. Held at Cameron Station and Ben Brenman Park. www.westendartandwinefestival.com

O Grapevine

VIRGINIA WINE FESTIVAL Sept. 17–18. Longest running wine festival on the East Coast; more than 400 wines to sample paired with food, entertainment. $. Bull Run Regional Park, Centreville. www.vintagevirginia.com

HOLIDAY KICK-OFF Nov. 25. Enjoy light hors d’oeuvres, holiday shopping, live music, and tastings. 11 a.m. Gray Ghost Vineyards.

COUNTRY WESTERN BBQ Oct. 22. Live music, dancing, BBQ and wine on the enclosed, outdoor pavilion. $. 5:30 p.m. Old House Vineyards.

MUSIC & WINE Nov. 12. Listen to local musicians Jim Steele and Scott Oglevee while enjoying wine at the vineyards. 5 p.m. Dry Mill Vineyards & Winery.

HARVEST FESTIVAL Oct. 29. Wine tastings from Hartwood and Rogers Ford Wineries, live music, hayrides, vineyard tours, activities for kids and food vendors. $. 11 a.m. Hartwood Winery.

HOLIDAY KICK-OFF Nov. 25. Enjoy light hors d’oeuvres, holiday shopping, live music and tastings. 11 a.m. Gray Ghost Vineyards.

HARVEST FETE Nov. 5. An afternoon of music, food, grape stomping, vineyard rides and tours. $. Noon. Philip Carter Winery. OLD HOUSE VINEYARDS November 5,6,12,13,19,20,26,27 —Soup’s On! Join us for Fall soups around the Old House Hearth. 12-5pm. 540-423-1032 • www.oldhousevineyards.com

YORKTOWN WINE FESTIVAL Oct. 1. Enjoy wines from area vineyards, art and food vendors and live entertainment. $. Noon. At Riverwalk Landing. www.villageevents.org

CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL Oct. 22–23. Sample craft beer from more than 25 breweries while enjoying live music. $. At 24th Street Park. www.beachstreetusa.com

CIAO ITALIAN FESTIVAL Oct. 8–9. Ninth annual festival sponsored by the Colonial Italian American Organization features wines from eight local vineyards, Italian food, craft and art vendors and live entertainment. $. 11 a.m. At Walsingham Academy. www.ciaowilliamsburg.org

CHESAPEAKE WINE FESTIVAL Oct. 29. This second annual festival features Virginia wines, food and live music from Lewis McGehee and Borderline Crazy; proceeds to benefit area charities. $. Noon. At Chesapeake City Park. www.Chesapeake VAWineFestival.com

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Dec. 10–11, 17–18. Samples wines in the tasting room and enjoy holiday refreshments; special discounts available in the wine and gift shop. Noon. Ingleside Vineyards. VWL

Because of space limitation, check with your favorite winery for other possible events. Virginia Wine Lover is not responsible for erroneous information. To submit calendar listings, email: patrick@virginiawinelover.com

EASTERN CHESAPEAKE BAY WINE FESTIVAL Sept. 24–25. Features a grape stomp, live music, food, art and craft vendors, children’s activities and wine tastings and sales from 10 regional vineyards including newly-opened Good Luck Cellars. $. 11 a.m. At Stratford Hall. www.chesapeakebaywinefestival.com

HARVEST FETE Nov. 5. An afternoon of music, food, grape stomping, vineyard rides and tours. $. Noon. Philip Carter Winery.

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