Virginia Wine meets The Green Fairy

It was early December when I visited District Winery in Washington D.C. and posted an image from their tasting room. A comment had me a bit perplexed about a possible visit. Then I realized it was that time of year and Greg was coming home for the holidays.

He expressed interest in visiting the D.C. winery but I had other plans. To my “Rookie” mistake I had forgotten about the winter hours at most Virginia vineyards and had to make a late adjustment.

Linden Vineyards wasn’t open that Friday so I opted to take Greg to another vineyard not to far away, Arterra Wines.

Sandy and Jason are the owners and we were lucky enough to have Jason pour our wines. Here was the list and my notes along with Greg’s humorous feedback.

’16 Dry Riesling

Me: Herbaceous, light and bright with low acids. A touch of sweetness on the palette with a subtle dry finish.

Greg: D.U.I made easy (drink with great care).

’15 Chardonnay

Me: Soft golden colors, a touch of minerality on the front of the mouth with buttery textures to round out the finish.

Greg: Not Cali – But still has the fornication.

’15 Cabernet Franc

Me: Dark red fruit on the nose, black currants and stone fruits on the back of the palette with a touch of white pepper on the finish.

Greg: Relax campfire wine to talk to a bunch of woulda been coulda been.

’15 Petit Verdot

Me: My favorite varietal! Bright concentrated fruit with a hint of leather on the nose. Bold rich fruit flavors with a cigar smoke on the finish. This is the perfect deck/porch sitting wine.

Greg: Official seal of Virginia! Seriously run with this one! Thomas Dolby reading Edgar Allen Poe!

’14 Reserve

Me: A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. An intense nose with dark fruit flavors. Gorgeous tannins with a bright finish. Another true deck/porch sipping wine.

Greg: The Harold Baines, Coco Crisp and Johnnie Damon All-Star Team wine.

’15 Tannat (bonus pour)

Me: Robust dark fruit essence on the nose. A well rounded mouth flavors of stone fruits – great balance. Bright acid with nice tannins on the finish. Beautiful wine!

Greg: Mystery Wine – Ask Coop! Joan Jett, Rage Against The Machine and Beatles Mash-up.

Blueberry Apple Wine

Me: This wine reminds me of the old field party days drinking fruit wines of my childhood. Bright berry and fruity flavors with a soft acidic finish. Refreshing flavors.

Greg: Not cobbler, Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!!!

Apple Wine

Me: Refreshing fruit flavors from start to finish.

Greg: What really hit Sir Issac Newton on the head and made him giggle. Strong gravitational pull!

Overall wonderful wines and Greg truly enjoyed them.

Lunch at the Hunters Head Tavern followed. French Dip Sandwiches and craft beer were paired with the meals (Greg, Legends Brown Ale Me, Devils Backbone Black Lager). Then I mentioned that Absinthe was being made a few miles down the road and Greg was on board to visit with the Green Fairy.

Off to Mt. Defiance Cidery & Distillery we went.

To his surprise Virginia is making top notch Absinthe as well, or as he put it:

From the moment I entered this fine establishment I knew… I just knew… on the bar it was there. The fountain of the Green Fairy herself. My inner child of La Belle Époque knew I had a chance for a moment of real Steampunk Van Gogh in the Shenandoah Valley.

The slow drop of this magical fountain set the stage for the suspense and anticipation to build. Indeed… could this magic potion bring me somewhere near Aix-en-Provence?

With the first sip it was indeed the kiss of the Green Fairy… adding a new bit of surrealism to my expanding Absinthe Adventures.

Absinthe began as an all-purpose patent remedy created by Dr. Pierre Ordinaire, a French doctor living in Couvet, Switzerland… to this day I’m not sure what it really cures, but I can say this glass I found under this magic fountain made me quite happy to have the appropriate disease.

Thus far he has not been disappointed with any of the Virginia watering holes I have introduced to him.

His next visit I’ll try to get Greg to the Godfather of Virginia wine, Jim Law at
Linden Vineyards.

Until next time my friend…Cheers! Prost! Slainte! Cin Cin! And my favorite…Bottoms Up!

 

A New Gig…With A Twist!

Some of you are aware of my newest venture and others will shake their heads at this news; but know this is a no brainer. Back in early August, I started working in a tasting room for a Northern Virginia vineyard to give me a little extra cash.

The owners are absolutely awesome and pouring wine comes with nice perks. I have also started doing some of their graphic design too. Gotta keep the skills sharp for a full time gig.

Standing behind the tasting table, is a different environment for me. This is just like tending bar without all the mixers and bitters. I have specific verbiage that I’m required to say and push the specials of the day.

Not really hard work but it can be hectic. Summer time when our outdoor patio is open, it can be chaos. I got a rude introduction to the patio on Labor Day Weekend. I don’t remember going thorough my pitch of the wines much that day, as there were two deep in line to sample wine. Most folks just want a glass with wine without the pitch. It goes against what I expect at a vineyard, this is like being at a wine festival and I’m no longer a fan of that environment.

They usually send me to clean dirty wine glasses as the day comes to an end. This is because I opened my big mouth and said: “it was very therapeutic process for me.”

Oh well, Suck It Up Fat Man!

As for the folks who work beside me, they are very unique in their own way. We have the mother figure, the hippies, the ladies man, the hard core party animal and then there is me.

With all that being said, I discovered I could visit my remaining vineyards for free or at a reduced tasting fee. This makes me happy. But along the way, I found that some of the staff at area vineyards are…how do I say this…douche-bags.

Keep in mind, these are folks who work in a tasting room at one of the larger vineyards just off of a major roadway. These kids are barely old enough to even drink legally but they are peddling wine. We are told when someone comments about an area vineyard, especially if it is a negative comment, to just let it roll. We support our local vineyards and encourage our customers to visit them.

This vineyard, when I inquired about a newer vineyard that had opened recently, they bad mouthed their neighbor and when I pressed about one that is listed in a spirits trail guide, but not listed on the states website, I got this response:

“We’ll how do you know about that!” In the most hateful way.

Top of the line customer service at its best!

This guide that I was using is helpful and is user friendly but to those who are in charge of such organizations, here is some advice:

Most of these services run by the state or counties and are not well organized. They don’t have anyone who is knowledgeable enough to lead or guide tourists to our beverage venues. They rely on what information is online or what was provided without thoroughly investigating.

Do a better job or let me do it for you…oh what, I am! 

The vineyard I questioned isn’t even open to the public at this time. This tidbit of information is crucial especially for those traveling long distances to check this off their list.

After finishing the tasting at the uppity vineyard, a couple from Minnesota began talking with me about Virginia wine. Our conversation was about the number and what is available within this area as well as Central and Northern Virginia. I provided them with some information but the young man behind the bar wasn’t amused by my recommendations.

He began to trash a few I mentioned simply because they didn’t allow groups larger than 6 or buses or limos. I refrained from pulling him across the bar and pounding him into the concrete. Regardless how unruly/hateful a person is, if you’re going to work with the public in this manor don’t show your true colors to the customer.

This was the same place in 2015 that was pouring a Chardonnay they had bottled the previous week. When I asked them about bottle shock, her response was:

“You don’t know much about wine.”  

Considering I have helped harvest, bottle, sort and de-stem grapes on occasion and most recently participate in blending trials of one of the states premier Meritage blends. NO! SWEETHEART I KNOW NOTHING ABOUT VINO!

If anything, this helps me improve as a wine educator at our vineyard as to what not to do. I want everyone to enjoy themselves at our vineyard and to be safe. The last thing anyone wants is an A-hole pouring wine. Maybe they were having a bad day or were hungover from the previous nights outing. There’s still no excuse for that kind of poor customer service.

I’m grateful that this vineyard isn’t one that I frequent. Okay, maybe 5 years down the road I will revisit, only if someone invites or they are paying. Otherwise, I would rather set my money on fire than give it to this place of business.

There are 258 vineyards open the public in Virginia and you can find wine to enjoy without rude people pouring. Don’t drink bad wine or tolerate douche-bags! That’s my motto!

Cheers!

And to give you an update, I now work at another vineyard. Or as I like to say: 

“The best in the state of Virginia!”

Not bad for a Wino-Redneck!

A Visit From Greg!

Last December, a familiar face appeared on Facebook. He hadn’t changed much since we last saw each other 30+ years ago. The only significant change was the town he was residing in…Vienna, Austria.

When he made the announcement he was coming state side, I made a point to meet with him. He was interested in reconnecting and told me to make the proper arrangements. I choose Glen Manor Vineyards for our meet and he truly enjoyed his first visit to a Virginia Winery.

A few weeks ago, he gave me the heads up that he would be visiting his mother over the Thanksgiving holiday. He told me to pick the venue and we could talk about the good ole days once again.

Greg was open to either beer or wine and I decided to show him the Vineyards of Frederick County.

We met in town and I proceeded to the Shenandoah valley’s northern most wineries. Our first stop was James Charles Winery. One of Virginia’s newer Vineyards, it is part of the Bogaty Family Wine Group which includes 2 other wineries Veramar Vineyard in Berryville & Bogati Winery in Round Hill.

Since opening last August, James Charles is making some noise with their red wines.

Greg and I did a tastings and decided to get a bottle of Petit Verdot. Rich Garnet in color, dark cherry and smoke on the nose. Complex red berry flavors with a dry spicy, chewy finish. This is your steak, burger wine even fish and chips would go well with this wine.

I believe Greg said: “This wine has the legs of a super model!” We will go with that!

The day was gorgeous and we decided to take advantage of the warm November weather and enjoy their patio. Our next stop will keep us indoors as the sun began to set but this vineyard has evening hours which is a great perk, Valerie Hill Vineyard & Winery.

It was almost 4 years ago that I stumbled upon this vineyard as I was taking back roads home due to heavy traffic on I-81. Tish and I visit often, knowing Greg is partial to Merlot, he will not be disappointed in their Merlot Reserve.

Subtle earthy notes with a touch of leather on the bouquet. Soft, warm flavors of currants and black cherries. Nice concentration and fruit forward that transcends to supple dry/low spice flavors on the finish. This is a true pasta wine that could be enjoyed by itself or with an after dinner cigar.

Greg is very impressed with how enjoyable the wines are in Virginia. I told him that when he comes back for another visit, we will take in some other vineyards in the surrounding area. With more than 30 within a 25 mile radius, we have plenty to choose from. And so do you!

Get out and visit the areas wineries and show your support for Virginia’s wine industry.

Cheers!

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!

The Vineyard List

The year in wine is now behind me.

Here is a list of all the wineries by month I visited. Some months were slow and others were quite busy.

But…oh what fun it was!

January

1. Rappahannock Cellars
2. Linden Vineyards
3. Fox Meadow Winery
4. Dry Mill Vineyards Winery
5. The Barns at Hamilton Station Vineyards
6. 8 Chains North Winery
7. Creeks Edge Winery
8. Glen Manor Vineyards
9. Greenhill Winery & Vineyards

 
February
10. The Winery at La Grange
11. Valerie Hill Vineyard & Winery
12. Molon Lave Vineyards
13. Grey Horse Vineyards
14. Quattro Goombas Winery
15. Carroll Vineyards
16. The Winery at Bull Run

 

 

 
March
17. Shenandoah Vineyards
18. North Mountain Vineyard & Winery
19. Arterra Wines
20. Naked Mountain Winery & Vineyards
21. Chateau O’brien at Northpoint
22. Winery at Kindred Pointe
23. Stone Tower Winery

 

April
24. Cana Vineyards & Winery of Middleburg
25. Chrysalis Vineyards
26. Barrel Oak Winery
27. Hillsborough Vineyards
28. Breaux Vineyards
29. 868 Estate Vineyards
30. North Gate Vineyard
31. Pearmund Cellars
32. Miracle Valley Vineyard
33. Aspen Dale Winery at The Barn
34. Blue Valley Vineyard & Winery
35. Three Fox Vineyards
36. Delaplane Cellars
37. Sunset Hills Vineyard
38. Doukenie Winery
39. Twin Oak Tavern Winery

May
40. Cobbler Mountain Cellars
41. Philip Carter Winery
42. Winding Road Cellars
43. Desert Rose Ranch & Winery
44. Fabbioli Cellars
45. Hidden Brook Winery
46. The Vineyard & Winery at Lost Creek
47. Tarara Winery
48. Hiddencroft Vineyards
49. Otium Cellars
50. Bluemont Vineyard
51. Veramar Vineyard
52. Wicked Oak Farms & Vineyard
53. Willowcroft Farm Vineyards
54. Materella Winery
55. Mediterranean Cellars

June
56. Prince Michel Vineyard
57. Old House Vineyards
58. Gray Ghost Vineyards
59. Cave Ridge Vineyard
60. Wolf Gap Vineyard & Winery
61. Cedar Creek Winery
62. Veritas Winery
63. Pollack Vineyards
64. Maggie Malick Wine Caves
65. Two Twisted Posts Winery
66. Notaviva Vineyards
67. Little Washington Winery
68. Gadino Cellars
69. Narmada Winery
70. Chester Gap Cellars
71. Corcoran Vineyards & Cider
72. Paradise Springs Winery

July
73. Afton Mountain Vineyards
74. Hill Top Berry Farm & Winery
75. Democracy Vineyards
76. Mountain Cove Vineyards
77. Lovingston Winery
78. Keswick Vineyards
79. Horton Vineyards
80. Barboursville Vineyards
81. Early Mountain Vineyards
82. Barren Ridge Vineyards
83. CrossKeys Vineyards
84. Bluestone Vineyard
85. Vint Hill Craft Winery
86. Boxwood Estate Winery
87. Ducard Vineyards

August

88. Sharp Rock Vineyards
89. Winery 32
90. Casanel Vineyards & Winery
91. Bogati Bodega
92. 612 Vineyard
93. Jefferson Vineyards
94. Blenheim Vineyards
95. Trump Winery
96. Gabriele Rousse Winery
97. King Family Vineyards
98. James Charles Winery
99. Potomac Point Winery
100. Ingleside Vineyards
101. Oak Crest Vineyard & Winery
102. Wisteria Farm & Vineyard

September
103. Michael Schaps Wineworks
104. First Colony Winery
105. Pungo Ridge Winery
106. Chatham Vineyards on Church Creek
107. Mermaid Winery
108. Gauthier Vineyard
109. Grace Estate Winery
110. Stinson Vineyards
111. White Hall Vineyards
112. Mountfair Vineyards
113. Glass House Winery
114. Moss Vineyards
115. Stone Mountain Vineyards
116. Rockbridge Vineyard
117. Fincastle Vineyard & Winery
118. Virginia Mountain Vineyards
119. Blue Ridge Vineyard
120. Ox Eye Vineyards
121. 50 West Vineyards
122. Zephaniah Farm Vineyard
123. Hunters Run Winery
124. Terra Nubelo Vineyards

October
125. Mattaponi Winery
126. Lake Anna Winery
127. Weston Farm Vineyard & Winery
128. Cooper Vineyards
129. Grayhaven Winery
130. Cardinal Point Vineyard & Winery
131. Flying Fox Vineyard
132. Delfosse Vineyard & Winery
133. Loving Cup Vineyard & Winery
134. Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards
135. Reynard Florence Vineyard
136. Honah Lee Vineyard
137. Kilaurwen Winery, LLC
138. Cardamon Family Vineyards
139. Crushed Cellars
140. Magnolia Vineyard & Winery
141. Granite Height Winery
142. Morais Vineyards and Winery
143. Rogers Ford Farm Winery
144. Hartwood Winery
145. Wilderness Run Vineyards
146. Chateau MerrillAnne

November
147. Rebec Vineyards
148. Lazy Days Winery
149. Thistle Gate Vineyard
150. Adventure Farm
151. Burnley Vineyards
152. Loudoun Valley Vineyards
153. Village Winery

 

December
154. New Kent Winery
155. Saúde Creek Vineyards
156. The Dog & Oyster Vineyard
157. Good Luck Cellars
158. Athena Vineyards & Winery
159. Vault Fields Vineyards
160. DeMello Vineyard Third Hill Winery
161. Sassafras Shade Vineyard
162. James River Cellars
163. Bodie Vineyards
164. RdV Vineyards

Now that the sun has set and 2015 is behind us, 2016 looks to be a good year. Most of the wine makers say that 2015 was a good year for fruit. Too bad it will have to be 2 years before we can taste these wines…I can wait, how about you?

 

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!

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.

Down Route 17 and Beyond

I wish Virginia vineyards would coordinate with each other and have the same hours. But I understand that most do have day jobs and are not full-time vintners.

In saying that, I hopped in my car and headed back toward the Warrenton/Fredericksburg are to visit the last few on my list.

The first stop of the day was going to be Rogers Ford Farm Winery. Traveling to this area has always been very painful with the traffic on Rt. 17. However, my most recent visits the trip has a been rather pleasant. I pulled into the parking lot at 11:00 and I was the first one in the tasting room to encounter the “Crazy Wine Chick”. I’m only going by what she called herself, by the time the tasting was over I can vouch for that statement.

The old house was really cool and the wines weren’t bad either.

’13 Jacob Christopher Chardonnay, golden in color. Light oak aromas on the nose. Bold peach and apricot flavors with a touch of effervescence on the palate. A subtle sweetness on the finish makes this a good wine for spicy Indian cuisine.

’12 Petit Verdot, a light jammy nose with some earthy under-tones. Dark cherry and chocolate flavors in the mouth. Surprising soft tannins with a white pepper finish. A true meat lovers wine.

Snake Castle, a port-style made from Petit Verdot. Carmel flavors on the nose. This wine is fortified with Brandy distilled from their own grapes. Black cherry and dark chocolate flavors on the palate. This is an absolute sinful wine! One of the best port-styles this year.

Just down the road was my next stop, Hartwood Winery.

They are celebrating 26 years of business and the wines weren’t bad.

Rappahannock Rose´, a dry Rose´made with Chambourcin. Soft cherries on the nose. Lush tropical fruit on the palate with a crisp dry finish.

Cabernet Franc, this wine had big earthy, barn yard aromas. Smoky tobacco flavors dominated the palate. Tart cranberries rounded out this wine.

An interesting stop.

I would have to travel a few miles to get to my next stop, Wilderness Run Vineyards.

This stop would be quite interesting. Primarily a Virginia tasting room, I only got to sample one wine from their site. They had wines from 7 different vineyards, 1 cidery and a few beers on tap for purchases only. It kind of sounds like a bar huh?

’12 Wilderness Toolshed Red, raspberry flavors on the nose. Jammy and smoky flavors on the palate with a touch of green pepper on the finish. A true pizza wine.

I had some time and thought I could visit one more. About 15 miles away was Chateau MerrillAnne Vineyards. What the hell!
I quaint little tasting room and the wines were worth the travel.

’14 Palace White, a white blend of Vidal and Cayuga. Minerality is the best way to describe the nose. Citrus, tart with a bit of effervescent on the palate. A crisp dry finish make this the perfect wine for shellfish, warm brie or even a plate of spicy enchiladas.

’12 Founded 1734, a blend of vinifera grapes; Malbec, Merlot, Tannat and Cabernet Sauvignon. A leather and smoky aroma fill the glass. Dark chocolate and currants on the palate. Silky jammy note with spice on the finish.

It will be 3 weeks before I make it to another Virginia vineyard.

A sickness and a trip to Atlantic City with Shorty keep me from my goal.

With four on this trip, it brings my total to 146.

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.