The Class with Class

I grew up in a small town in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. In my neighborhood there were kids at every house within a miles radius. We played until it got dark and when Momma hollered our names, we made sure we were home in the proper amount of time.

We all went to Toms Brook Elementary or as the locals call it “T.B.U.” [Toms Brook University], From 1st to 7th grade we graced the halls of that school. The funny thing is, the road I lived on was the counties imaginary line for where we were to attend high school. Those who lived on the north side of 655, like me, went to Strasburg High School in Strasburg. The south side, went to Central High School in Woodstock. Of course some choose to go to where they wanted. So it wasn’t set in stone.

Once we “graduated” from Middle School, my class was split down the middle. Half went to Central the other went to Strasburg.

One of the few things I remember from school (brain surgery has erased a lot of my childhood) was the first day of high school. My frail frame, all 4’ 11” and 80lbs walked down the hallway to my locker. Upper class men lined the row of lockers and I thought; “This isn’t so bad.”

I spoke too soon! 

Books knocked out of my hands and two goons on each side hoisted me on top of the lockers. I tried to get down but they advised me to stay put. Welcome to high school.

We’re gonna fast forward to my Senior year. I was still the skinny kid but I had grown to almost 6’ tall. I had a job with a local printer and was fortunate to be able to drive to and from school. No more buses.

As Seniors we were as cocky as the last class. But we were a unique bunch. Even though we had the obvious cliques, we all got along and if something or someone messed with us we United and our rednecks would show.

We have heard stories of how the educators at our school couldn’t wait until we graduated. How can a group of 18-year-olds be that bad?

There are many stories, here are a few…

My Classmates – The Series

I have a great group of friends.

But, I can’t really refer to them as friends. They are in fact family…The Class of ’83. 

In ’99, I only contacted one of my classmates. I was about to have brain surgery and the only one I was really close with at that time was Carter. He knew what I had endured my entire life, my seizure activity controlled my life and they were an embarrassment and I didn’t want to hear any pity from others. Maybe I was being selfish and just didn’t want anyone around, especially my ’83 family. Then again, this was about the time that I was in a bad place, I was married and I was not happy in my life. I was slowly killing myself with food. The amount of food I ingested in the early mornings after work was almost heart stopping. Then Dr. Edward Laws came into my life and changed me forever. 

It has been 17 years since I went under the knife and I have learned a thing of two during that time. Never get married. 

Always live your life like today is your last day.. If you ever had a grudge with an immediate family or a friend, resolve the issue and move on. Life is Too Short! Every Day IS A GOOD DAY!

When I reflect on my health issue, I believe that only one of my classmates ever witnessed me have a seizure. Nina had invited me to be her date to a wedding. The ironic thing is we were going to one of our classmates wedding…Jules. Now the day went well. I do not remember drinking anything. But the scary thing is that, I was driving and remember pulling over into a 7-11 parking lot because something wasn’t right. I have no recollection of the events that followed but I do remember seeing Nina’s face once I become aware of my surroundings. I was in the Emergency Room in Culpepper, Va.  

When the Dr’s and the state tightened the reigns on me, I had to rely on family and friends to take me to work and out to play. Horton, Robin-Ann, Cousin, Binebrink, Keller and a few other members of the family made sure I didn’t sit at home.  

Let’s fast forward to present time.

It wasn’t until our 30th reunion picnic that I discovered how close we really were. That little outing opened the door for many more down the road as a group or just a small gathering of a few individuals.

This series is about how we grew as kids and refused to grow up as adults.

No Buses, No Limos, No Groups…

A good friend was trying to give me some ideas a few months back to make some money during my unemployment. She came up with a stellar idea but it would require a lot of weekends and I would have to buy a large vehicle. Doing wine & beer tours in Northern Virginia.

I liked the idea but I would have to limit how many folks I could haul around. As I kicked this around in my head, I remembered that sign at an area vineyard and I knew I couldn’t go through with this.

“No Buses, No Limos, No Groups Larger Than Six!”

Large groups partying on decks at local vineyards isn’t uncommon but it is frown upon at certain facilities. I don’t have a problem with groups enjoying themselves but when they start getting to rambunctious hoopin’ and hollerin’ then I can understand an owner getting a little nervous.

Some winemakers encourage the practice of the party crowds. But a serious winemaker who makes quality wine doesn’t want their site turning into a happy hour vineyard.

We have had good times at many vineyards laughing and carrying on. But some of the old school vintners don’t see the the humor of those having a large time. The patrons are a liability on site and the last thing anyone wants is to be asked to leave the premises.

Then there are those who want to break all the rules. These are the ones who probably have had too much vino to begin with and pop a top on cold one in the vineyards parking lot. I’ve seen ‘em do it!

Some think that the glasses are included in the tasting and they add to their collections – some high dollar stemware. You might ask before you toss the glass in your wives pocketbook.

Then of course, you have those who would take anything they can get their grubby little paws on. A vase and dried flowers were reported missing at a vineyard in my next of the woods recently. Really, dried flowers?

I’m guessing most of those with the sticky fingers are the same ones who have been called down and were asked to keep the noise at a certain level. They also probably didn’t see the sign of the limit to 6 people. Rookies!

Now I understand why Jim Law started his Case Club and only limits his deck to those who are members. I’ve heard the stories of large crowds on his deck back in the day. You will not see that again. Good for him.

As for the buses & limos. When I visited the 164 last year, I only encountered 3 limos and they were all filled with drunk chicks. The 12 girls from Georgetown who were letting off steam after finals. Another group of girls who were just getting their drink on & getting bat crap crazy. And of course, there was the bachelorette party of 12 in the Charlottesville area. They were drunker than 10 monkeys at 11a.m. Really?

Not all groups are going to act the fool but the majority do and I can see why some ban the large vehicles.

Go and have a good time, just don’t act like it’s a frat party. Your college party days are over and the cheap kegs are empty. You have come to a vineyard to refine your palate and add a little class to your repertoire.

Now, I know some of you would say to me:

“Hey, you wear ripped jeans, a cowboy hat and old concert shirts to vineyard!”

Yeah, I do! But…

I’m a good ole country boy and can pull that look off, you can’t!

Cheers Y’all! The snow is coming so be sure you have all the essentials. Food, Water, Beer, Wine and more Wine!

Next To Last Trip…

It was unseasonably warm for this time of year. Last week I was scrapping my windshield, this morning I was wiping sweat from my head. Mother Nature has a sick sense of humor.

I remember when I came down a few weeks ago to the Richmond area, I saw the sign for my first stop today. I just don’t remember which exit it was. Easy with the old jokes folks!

The ride down 95 wasn’t bad and I turned off and traveled through Ladysmith to Sassafras Shade Vineyard.

Tucked back in a wooded area with an inviting front porch, it was a shame I stopped here first.

Ten wines on the tasting list and these were my favorites:

Chardonnay, light golden in color. Supple melon flavors on the nose. Bold honeysuckle flavors on the palate with tart apricots on the finish. This wine and that porch, that’s all I need to say.

Caroline Red, a blend of Cabernet Franc & Chambourcin. Bouquet of rose buds filled my glass. A medium bodied wine with dark red fruit flavors. Soft tannins and a smoky finish.

A nice stop that I will visit again in the future.

Just a few miles away is my next stop, James River Cellars. Located off of Route 1 this vineyard has been making wine since 2001.

 

The tasting room is next to a driving range so park well enough away from stray balls flying over the net. Staff was extra friendly and here is what I enjoyed.

’14 Petit Manseng, notes of grassy and earthiness on the nose. Pear and honey flavors dominate the palate. A gorgeous finish of grapefruit make this a really nice deck/porch sipping wine.

’12 Meritage, a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Bold aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg. earthy flavors on the front of the mouth that transcends to a smokiness on the back of the palate. Black raspberry, cherry flavors round out this wine with bold, crunchy tannins. A true steak, burger or venison wine.

My last stop of the day takes me down into the Powhatan area. The wine guides said they were open as did their website. After turning on the secondary road I found the entrance but it looked suspect. I gave them a call to confirm and the older gentleman told me to come on down and taste. Okay!

Bodie Vineyards reminds me of Berryhill Vineyards. Tasting room in the garage and super nice folks. Mr. Bodie came out and I figured this wouldn’t take too long but I ended up sitting and talking with him for and hour or so.

He was pouring two wines.

Michaud Blanc, made with Cayuga grapes. Earthy on the nose. Tropical fruit flavors on the palate. Semi-dry wine had a finish of graphite. A wine that would go well with seafood especially oysters.

Rochelle Rouge, a blend of Buffalo and Cabernet Franc.  A very light bodied wine with plum aromas on the nose. Strawberry and cherries on the palate with a finish of sweet currants. This would be the perfect Thanksgiving wine.

Mr. Bodie told me tales of college and advised me to go see an acupuncturist if I ever have back issues. As we chatted, he would pour another sample of his red.

This was quite entertaining.

With the these 3 marked off, this brings my total to 163 in 2015.

With only one week to go, I want to make the last vineyard to be a memorable one. The reservations are for New Years Eve. This redneck is excited to visit this place yet, I’m sad that my vineyard tour is coming to an end.

But with a new year come new opportunities and hopefully a new job. Maybe I can visit the last few vineyard next year to reach all of the them in less than two year.

To all of my readers, Happy New Year and Cheers!

One Vineyard & The Diesel

I picked up one the valley’s free newspapers, this publication usually has the latest openings and closings in the area.

As I go down the list, nothing stands out as breaking news. And then there it was…a new vineyard had opened in county. That will take care of this weeks visit.

Friday would be a good time to visit but I have a conflict.

In D.C. at the Verizon Center, The Green Turtle was doing a beer release party for Escutcheon Brewery’s John Riggins 4th & 1 Pilsner. With the release of the beer Riggo was going to be present for the unveiling.

Shorty contacted me about meeting him at the Turtle. So now, I have to plan accordingly but it can be done.

I traveled south to Quicksburg, to the newest winery, DeMello Vineyard, Third Hill Winery.  The tasting room is rustic with amazing views. The owners were extremely nice and so were the wines.

’14 Traminette, a soft lemon colored wine. Rose petals and honeysuckle on the nose. Crisp, refreshing lavender flavors on the palate. A sweet finish makes this wine a perfect pairing with goat cheese or a warm brie.

’12 Cabernet France, a rich red color. Sweet cherries on the nose. Earthy notes on the palate with a low tannin smoky finish. Perfect burger wine.

Shenandoah County now has 9 vineyards, 2 breweries and a cidery. We might catch up to Loudoun County some day.

I stopped by the house before heading into the city. Sent Shorty a text telling him about what time I was going to arrive. He was planning on being there about the same time. So we decided, the last one to arrive, buys the first round.

The drive to Vienna wasn’t bad, I hopped on the train and I had to rely on public transportation to get me there before Shorty.

It was going to be close and it was. He was literally 100 feet in front of me laughing and pointing. That Sucks!

We got caught up and decided to sample the 4th &1. This is a wonderful Pilsner with nice balance a flavor. And since it is made 20 miles from my house, I would be filling my growlers up with that goodness.

Riggo arrived. Shorty and I got our pics taken with the Super Bowl MVP and then we hit a few more stops before calling it a night.

My travels will take me back toward Richmond to visit a few stragglers then I will end the year in our area.

With the lone visit to the valley I have now visited 160 vineyards this year.

I Get Around!

There was a chill to the morning that required me to scrap frost from my windshield. I stopped for a cup of joe and I turned on some Stone Temple Pilots on to honor the late Scott Weiland for my trip to taste wine.

The only time I saw S.T.P. was in ’10 with Alice in Chains at DC101’s chili cook off. Rumors had it that he walked off of the bus with a cup the size of a Big Gulp full of red wine. So it was only fitting to play a few tunes while the Big K was going to taste some vino.

I traveled down Rt. 17 to get to the most dreaded road in the state I-95. Most of my visits I spend my time on secondary roads to avoid the crazies on the major highways.

I was on a mission and little did I know, my travels would take me further east than I had planned. The earliest vineyard opened at 10:00 a.m. I rolled in at 10:30 to start my tasting at New Kent Winery. It had only been a few years since my first visit and I was looking forward to seeing how well the latest vintage of the Chardonnay tasted.
This vineyard is located in the roundabouts of roundabouts. I think I drove through three of them. Huge tasting facility and an amazing staff waiting to serve their customers.

’12 Chardonnay a golden colored fruit forward wine. Tropical citrus flavors on the nose. Sweet grilled apricots were lively on the palate. A finish of the old school fruit cocktail that I remember at elementary school. This would be any person warm day deck sitting wine. I could have curled up in bed with a bottle.

Meritage, a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon & Petit Verdot. Earthy notes on the nose. A medium bodied red with flavors of dark red fruits. Mild tannins with a subtle sweetness on the finish. This would be a good wine for steak or burgers.

Just down the road was my second stop of the day, Saude´ Creek Vineyards. This vineyard had only been open 4.5 years gorgeous tasting room. A nice crowd has gathered to enjoy some local music and Barbeque. You know what I’m there for!

Vidal Blanc, an off-dry white with floral aromas of grilled peaches. Crips flavors of grapefruit on the palate. with a zesty finish. They call this wine: “Champagne without the bubbles.” and I can see this being poured on New Years Eve at a party.

Merlot, soft, medium bodied red. Currants and leather aromas filled my glass. Roasted coffee flavors on the palate. Soft tannins and raspberries round out the finish.

A nice stop and now it was time to make turn and head to the east toward Irvington.

The drive took 40 minutes and I was pulling into what was White Fences Vineyard but is now The Dog and Oyster Vineyard.

As I drove up the entrance, I see this massive cork screw out in the field. That’s one way to get your attention.

I walked into the tasting room and two young boys were hanging out. I though, “get them trained young!” They rushed off and got someone to come and pour me a tasting or 8.

’14 Pearl, made with at 100% Vidal Blanc. Notes of Kiwi and Petrichor on the bouquet. Fresh peaches with a touch of citrus round out the palate. A subtle oaky finish. A refreshing wine that would pair well with Indian cuisine or spicy Asian dishes.

’13 Shelter Dog Red,made with 100% Chambourcin. Dark Cherry nose. Medium bodied wine with flavors of rose petals on the palate. A nice smoky finish. The young lady described this as: “Pinot Noir meets Malbec.”

The next stop was only 15 minutes away, Good Luck Cellars in Kilmarnock.

I walked into the tasting room and the smell of fresh baked cookies permeated the room.

They had two tasting options, Whites or Reds for $8 per flight. I choose the Reds and here is what I enjoyed.

’13 Oak Aged Chambourcin, the grapes spent 20 months in French oak. Fruity nose with dark fruits on the palate. Raspberry and spicy notes on the the finish.

’13 Cabernet Sauvignon, again aged for 20 months in French oak. Jammy fruit flavors on the nose. Black cherries and new leather flavors on the palate. A smooth finish with a touch of sweetness. A nice light bodied wine that would go well with baked pasta dishes.

I was informed one of the vineyards in the area had already closed for the winter.

There was only two left for me to visit today and I had just enough time to stop before heading west for home.

Athena Vineyards, owned by a group of retired nurses. Here is what I enjoyed:

Nightingale Chardonnay, a crisp citrus floral nose. Soft flavors of apricots with a refreshing finish.

Merlot, a medium-bodied wine with aromas of green pepper on the nose. Flavors of raspberries and pomegranates on the front of the palate with cherries on the back. A smooth low tannin finish would make this a nice every day wine.

My last stop of the day is one Big D. told me not to miss, Vault Field Vineyards.

I was met in the tasting room by the vineyard cat. Freddie welcomed me as I waited for my tasting to begin.

’10 Vidal Blanc, a fruity wine with an intense pineapple nose. Sweet pear flavors dominate the palate and a medium acid finish with grapefruit flavors. This would go well with a lump crab cake on an Old Bay, cheddar biscuit.

’09 Red, a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chambourcin. Fresh raspberry flavors on the nose. Sweet cherry flavors on the palate with a supple finish of you guessed it raspberries.

So this trip had me visiting 6 and it brings my total to 159. It’s getting tougher to visit without traveling long distances. But, I”m sure I can get a few more in before the end of the year.

The sun sets at Vault Fields on another day of tasting wine.

 

Amherst, Scottsville & Barboursville

I battled sinuses for a week.

My palate was comprised therefore I didn’t attempt to visit any vineyards. After a week of medicating I was feeling a bit better and enjoyed a short trip to Atlantic City with Shorty. I’ll put that down in words later.

Now that I am back to normal…easy folks, it is time to add to my vineyard tour.

I have a feeling that this may be my last trip to the Charlottesville area to visit wineries as I’ve almost visited them all.

The day was early and I headed south of Nelson county into the Amherst area to visit a few there.

My first stop of the day, Rebec Vineyards. This is the location for the Wine & Garlic Festival each year.

The small shack didn’t have much room but we did get to taste some wine.

Chardonnay, light gold colored wine. Orange blossoms on the nose. crisp flavors of apples with a toasty finish.

Cabernet Franc, a medium bodied red. Dark red fruits on the nose. Fruit forward with blackberries on the palate. Green peppers round out the finish. This is young and should age well.

About a mile away was the second stop of the day, Lazy Days Winery.

’13 Chardonnay, a fruity nose of pear and apples. Crisp, tart flavors with low acid. Oak flavors give this wine a creamy finish.

Sweet Lazy Days, a blend of Chambourcin and Petit Manseng. Candied cherries on the nose. A balance of plums, raspberries and raisins on the palate. A dry yet sweet finish gives this wine it’s alias: “Party in a Bottle”.

The next stop will have me traveling 25 miles to the east just outside of Scottsville.
Thistle Gate Vineyard, is located just along Rt. 6. The barn-like tasting is a bit rustic.

’13 Chardonnay, aged in French and American oak. A buttery nose with oak flavors on the palate. The dry, low acid finish makes this wine a perfect match for a plate of cheese and baguette.

’14 Temperance Bridge Red, a blend of Chambourcin and Cabernet Franc gives this wine its dark ruby color. Raspberry on the nose. Bold flavors of dark chocolate with moderate tannins. The slight sweetness on the finish would make this wine pair well with roasted lamb or plate of meatballs in gravy.

The next stop takes me north of Charlottesville close to the airport, Adventure Farm Vineyards.

One of the newest vineyards in the area, They have 4 of their wines and a few of Michael Schaps on the tasting list.

’14 Rose´, made with 100% Chambourcin. A captivating light ruby color. Soft aromas of rose buds, refreshing dry flavors of plums on the palate. A light taste of spice on the finish makes this a nice wine to enjoy with friends.

’12 Gigi Red Blend, Chambourcin and Cabernet Sauvignon make a medium bodied wine. Earthiness and petrichor on the nose. Black raspberry and cherry flavors on the palate with an off dry spice on the finish. A big plate of pasta would be a good pairing.

A nice stop that I will have to bring Tish to on one of our trips.

The last stop of the day will be one of the areas oldest, Burnley Vineyards.

It has been a few years since my last visit. Let’s see how the wines are:

Riesling, tropical fruits on the nose especially pineapple. Tart melon flavors on the palate with a dry yet sweet finish. A nice wine to pair with grilled salmon.

Chambourcin, earthy with a bit of blueberry on the nose. Bold dark red fruits coat the palate with a finish of sweet dark chocolate and a touch of smoke. This would make a great cigar wine to enjoy with the boys.

Let’s hope mother nature plays well as we head into the Thanksgiving holiday and early stages of winter. With these 5 added to the list, it brings my total to 151 for the year.

A Lot of Meat & Wine

Tish was leaving for the OBX area for 5 days.

I was going to be left alone to deal with the felines and fend for myself while she enjoys some sun and sand with her old friend Granny Smith.

I helped her load her car and we said our good-byes. She left me at 1:15 and at 1:20 I was heading south to the local butcher shop to score a few steaks. I had been planning my menu for some time.

The boys behind the counter sold me two of the most gorgeous Delmonico steaks I have ever seen. No sooner than I arrived home, I got out the spices and began rubbing my meat – oops that was bit dirty, I’m sorry.

Sun-dried Tomato Powder and Dried Basil macerated for 6 hours. I visited the grocery store and got the ingredients for my side along with America’s finest Pilsner, Pabst Blue Ribbon. I sat on my deck enjoying the 70º weather and got updates on Tish’s travels. After plenty of dead soldiers were lined up  on the table, I began preparing this evening meal.

I cleaned the potatoes, minced the garlic and onion. grated some pepper jack and then it was time to grate the potatoes and turn them into…Cheesy, Old Bay Hash Browns.

After sautéing the onion and garlic, I added the spuds, Old Bay and a little heavy cream. Once golden brown, I flipped and placed the pan in the oven to finish the plate there.

That heavy cast iron skillet was smoking from the oil when I placed that slab of red meat inside the vessel. Just enough sear for a light crust. After flipping, I removed the spuds and placed the steak in the oven just for about 4 minutes.

I plated the hash browns then the steak and allowed the meat
to rest for a few minutes to let the juices redistribute throughout. Wonderful red flesh color…you can’t get any better. I retired to my deck to enjoy the evenings great weather.

Tomorrow’s weather was going to be even better, which means I need to visit one of my favorite spots…Glen Manor Vineyards.

Coffee was made, shower was taken and it was time for some grub. But first, I had to prep this evenings steak. Espresso Powder, Ancho Chili Powder and fresh Cracked White Pepper. I coated the meat and allowed to air dry for almost 7 hrs. In the meantime time, I headed toThe Queen St. Diner, and I had to have their signature burger named after the establishment. BBQ sauce, sharp cheddar cheese and a big ole fat onion ring with a side of fresh cut fries. I’ll have the meat sweats after this day.

Temps in the mid 70s and it is a perfect day for the ’14 Morales Rosé.This wine gets better each time I open a bottle. After a few hours of healthy Vitamin D, I headed to the homestead and relax on the deck before dinner.

Once the last of the Rosé was poured, I thought I should a bottle I received as a gift a few weeks ago.

One of my redneck friends gave me a bottle of homemade wine he wanted me to try. Based on the swill I drank back in the day, I wasn’t scared to try his concoction. Rich is a crafty, resourceful redneck. If you are in search of something, he seems to know an outlet. If he can’t find it for you, he will do his best to create it.

Now, he didn’t use traditional wine grapes, they either came from a grocery store, or he was able to obtain some from a friend down the road. He makes a sweet and a dry red, the latter  has been opened and I’m allowing to breath while I finish my Rose.

The color was a nice cherry red, this reminds me of being a kid and seeing the pitcher of Kool-Aid on Mamma’s kitchen counter. It was very fruity with a touch of sweetness on the nose. Definitely a young wine with a medium body structure. A mild finish of pomegranates and a surprise of the day.

A good ole boy can make wine even in this own kitchen. I gave him my feedback and I’m looking forward to seeing what next years vintages will taste like.

Dinner was wonderful and I decided to lay low on Friday. A former coworker contacted me about joining him and his wife at the beer festival in Ashburn at Lost Rhino Brewery on Saturday.

I rolled out of bed pretty early on Saturday. Took care of my flea-bag felines then headed into Loudoun to taste at two vineyards before meeting Carl & Jackie.

It was such a gorgeous day, I decided to try and avoid Rt. 7 as much as I can. Rt. 50 across Paris Mt. and then I took the Mt. Weather road that runs along the top of the mountain. After dropping out onto the opposite side of the mountain, I took the side road through Round Hill to get me on the North end of Rt. 9 near Hillsbourough. Once on the narrow road, I drove to my first stop of the day, Cardamon Family Vineyards.

This is one of four in Loudoun Co. I haven’t visited. After today though, that number will be cut in half.

Four wines were on the tasting list and each paired with a salsa made by the winemaker.

MACHA, a pale lemon color. The nose of fresh grilled peaches. Bold flavors of honey dew with a
burst of effervescence on the palate. A touch of sweet melon and low acid on the finish. A perfect wine for a plate of cheese and a baguette.

Peter Pie, a blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Rich red color with a hickory smoke and leather essence on the nose. A fruit forward with a medium bodied structure. Dark red fruits and jammy flavors on the palate. Refreshing light sweet finish. Pasta, Salmon or Steak, take your pick.

I asked about my next stop, the group said in unison; “Oh Bob!”

With that comment, I knew this was going to be entertaining.

About 7 miles away was the last stop for wine today, Crushed Cellars.

A tiny tasting room, that was filled with 4 young ladies out tasting wine and heading for a day at the spa.

Bob was a trip!

He doesn’t play by the wine rules. Six wines were made available for tasting and the pours were quite generous.

Chardonnay, butter and vanilla aromas on the nose. Smooth flavors of light oak on the palate. Well balanced acids make this a superb wine.

Meritage, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Merlot. Aged in French oak, ruby color. Dark red fruit with a touch of smoke on the nose. Jammy flavors of currants, pomegranates, and hints of leather on the palate. Nice tannins, with a spicy white pepper finish.This is your steak wine!

It was on to meet Carl & Jackie at the brew fest. By the time we arrived some of the breweries had kicked their kegs and they were packing up and heading for home. They invited me to join them for dinner at Ford’s Seafood House. They enjoyed Oysters on the half shell and savored the fish and chips.

Tish comes home tomorrow!

I did a rough clean of the house and planned to make her some baked tofu with an apple bar b que sauce for her dinner.

I have time and decided to visit a few wineries near Warrenton area.

Magnolia Vineyards is one of the newer vineyards to the area.

Located outside of Amissville, it was time to see what they had to offer.

’13 Black Walnut White, a blend of Vidal Blanc, Tramminette, Petit Manning,Chardonnay, Viognier and Riesling. Meyer lemons on the nose. Crisp flavors of tropical fruit like pineapple dominate the palate. Refreshing flavors of orange give this wine a succulent finish. This wine would be a good choice for a warm evening on the deck.

’12 Cabernet Franc Reserve, a rich colored wine. Nose of currants and some cloves. Fruity raspberry flavors fill the palate. Earthy notes and a touch of spice on the finish. A true meat lovers wine but I wouldn’t rule out a plate of roasted mushrooms for our vegetarian friends.

It was on to the next stop and it was a surprise!

Granite Heights located in Opal has been a point of interest for me but we never had the time to stop. I’m glad I did.

’13 Petit Manseng, done in stainless this was a big flavored white. Sweet apricots on the nose. A touch of effervescent with flavors of lavender and honey on the palate. The finish was super sweet on the finish but is only 2% residual sugar.

’11 Humility, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Deep ruby color, with a smoky white pepper nose. Jammy flavors of cherry with some leather on the palate. Big bold, crunchy tannins give this a spice finish. One of my favorites this year.

Bealeton was my next stop, Morais Vineyard and Winery. Huge facility and impressive tasting room.

Rose´, a light orange in color. A subtle nose of cherries and smoke on the nose make this a unique Rose´. Soft flavors of strawberries with a finish of rose petals. Another deck sitting wine.

Cabernet Franc, a light bodied red. A bold fruity nose. Sweet currants and black cherries on the palate. The finish was surprising with leather and spice. As light as this wine was it had incredible flavors. A good pizza and pasta wine.

After this weeks visits, this takes my total to 142 for the year.

Next week will have me visiting the Warrenton are one last time with a few other mixed in.

In the meantime, Tish arrived home and brought presents.

It was a good week y’all!

Wine + Reunion Week = Debauchery!

Earlier in the week was busy. I was able to secure some complimentary tastings from a few vineyards for the Decade & a half reunion for this coming Saturday evening. My travels for the week were going to be limited.
I knew Saturday was going to be bat crap crazy so I decided to visit the few vineyards on the north end of Orange county.

I waited until 10a.m. to head down to my first stop of the day. My schedule was going to be tight as I had planned on going to the homecoming game and then drinks with classmates at the Old Mill Grill.

After relying on a cell phone voice giving me wrong directions, I finally arrived at Honah Lee Vineyard.

Just outside of Gordonsville, is this quaint boutique vineyard and tasting room. I was surprised to see a limo parked out front. Either a Birthday party or Bachelorette party, the latter. It wasn’t even noon before I started tasting and these girls were drunker than 10 monkeys.

The owner an ex-law man, kind of shook his head at the way those crazy kids were acting.

As for the wine…

’13 Chardonnay, golden in color. The nose was dominated by a big stick of butter! Then came a surprise, crisp, tart citrus flavors on the palate. Succulent honeysuckle notes on the finish, make this a very nice Chard.

’13 de la Merce, a red blend of Merlot and Chambourcin. Fruity notes of cherries on the nose. A softened flavor of leather and tobacco coat the mouth. This medium bodied wine finished with black raspberries and soft tannins. This would be a great everyday red. Pasta, pizza and red meat plates would help this wine shine.

So now, I have to travel about 15-20 miles to the next stop. I have my trusty map ready since I will be traveling into the hills to reach Kilaurwen Winery.

Nice winding roads to reach this locations and there were a few cars visiting from out of state.

The owner/winemaker explained the name of the winery. It was named after his three daughters. That’s kind of sweet.

Situated against the mountain, I was hoping to taste something good.

’12 Riesling, apricots and pineapple on the nose. Bold citrus flavors of lemon on the palate. A clean finish with essences of melon. Oysters on the half shell or shrimp scampi would go well with this wine.

’12 Cabernet Franc, a medium bodied wine with a gorgeous ruby color. Earthy aromas on the nose. Cherry, currants and smoky flavors on the palate with bold spicy tannins on the finish. A true steak wine.

So my travels took me to 2 and that would bring my total to 137 for the year.

Once I returned home, I got a few texts telling me they wanted to start the party early. I arrived at the Old Mill around 6. I had set up one of those “Events” on Facebook and invited all of my classmates who grace the social media giant.

Then of course, I have those friends that are in my contact list who I send messages too when an event like this is planned. Texts were sent and it was going to be a wait and see who shows up.

Deb was the first one there and I told Abe, the owner of the Mill, to stock up on Corona’s because I have seen her drink bars out of the Mexican Cerveza. Our last outing, she shared a quote with me that I have say is one of the funniest sayings I have ever heard:

“Beer is Great, Sex is Free, We’re the Class of ’83!”

I Love This Class!

We had a good turn out. About 10 showed up, some I haven’t even seen in 30+ years. A lot of alcohol was poured…including shots which we did not need and stories were told. We got the party started early and rolled out at midnight.

On Saturday, I went and purchased wine at Glen Manor Vineyards so Tish and I enjoy good Vino. I knew they were pouring Boone’s Farm but I wasn’t that interested in going down memory lane. Memories of bad hangovers on that stuff still linger after all these years.

We arrived early like the promoters suggested, we didn’t expect to be standing in line freezing our butts off. Everyone and their sister was there. I saw friends I hadn’t seen since I was 13 years old.

Margo visiting from Portland, Oregon.

Good Ole T.B.U. representing with Dave, The Fat Man & Clark. Old friends indeed!

I knew my boy Dave was suppose to be there, but I never saw him until late and by then the alcohol had my head spinning. I saw my prom dates and homecoming date. Of course, there were the hard cores, those Class of ’83 members who rarely make an appearance. Todd & Chewy. This night could get RIGHTEOUS and there was talk about visiting the “West Virginia Ballet”.

Chewy is a trip!

Todd never changes…Dammit!

The only details I can share are…good times were had by all and some were feeling quite ill the following day. We’re not teenagers anymore and we can not party like Charlie Sheen. Although I try my best!

As for my wine tour, Next week Tish leaves for the beach and I will consume a lot of meat along with beverages.

Visits to Loudoun and back to the Culpepper area to finally check off some of those wineries.

I’ve decided to see how many I can actually visit. This trip is coming to an end quick.

I leave you with one last pick from the reunion. This group was just looking for trouble.

Mel, Me, Roger & Rich. We included Mel to keep us out of jail, I’m too pretty for prison.