Planning Your Trip!

As most of my 10 readers know (and those numbers have been ballooned). I’ve been driving for Seven Bends Spirits Tour for just under 2 years.

My knowledge of wine, liquor, beer, food and of course, cigars benefits my groups as we travel the roads here in Virginia.

Depending on what location you are staying in, I provide many options for my day drinkers to enjoy for their outing.

We pick folks up in all regions of the Shenandoah Valley and even in the No. Va. region to visit that areas locations. But there’s one thing that I’d like to provide. A quick list to improve your travels.

1. Stay Close – This is important as visiting specific wineries can eat up a lot of your time. By looking at a map, a vineyard is 6 miles as the crow flies from your Air Bnb. In reality it’s actually 30 minutes or more away. Always choose a location that’s has vineyards within 10 miles of your overnight stay.

2. Select Wisely – Not everyone in your group likes wine, bold reds or even sweet varietals. Some may prefer to have beer or even cider. Investigate whether these stops have other options to make everyone’s visit a memorable one.

3. Dining – Even if you wish to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you will need to be close to food options as well as a coffee shop if you’re not that verse in brewing a cup of Joe. Having multiple food choices is important because at the end of a day of drinking, the last thing you need to be doing is trying to drive to get a meal, you’ll need someone to deliver.

4. Accommodation Location – This is an important one. This should factor in with which stops you wish to visit (See no. 1.) if that cabin or house in the woods looks cute, remember, you still have to drive to the site. Be sure to ask if 4X4 is required (we have almost gotten stuck on a road several times because 4X4 was required). Make sure there isn’t any seedy houses of roads that look suspicious in your area. If you happen to venture onto a wrong road, local residents may not be very happy about your mistake.

5. Travel Time – Certain regions have multiple vineyards within a few miles. Others can be 20-30 miles apart from each other. If in a busy area travel times can double. Try to keep your time between stops to 15 minutes at tops. This will allow you longer times to enjoy your tasting. Also, don’t hesitate to bring snacks and beverages with you if the distance between stops are longer. Just don’t get too hammered between these stops. If the staff thinks you’ve had to much to drink, they will not serve you and they’ll ask us to leave.

6. Your Stops – Be sure to review the places you wish to visit. Recent groups have encountered horrible customer service and failure to get served. If you wish to pack some eats for your tasting, confirm outside food can be brought on site.

The bottom line is, we want you to have a great time without delays, mishaps or unwanted surprises. We can’t control the weather but we will make sure your tour with us will be top notch, that way you will return for another visit.

So if you’re looking for a great weekend to visit some watering holes, give us a call. Who knows, I may even be your driver.

Cheers Y’all!

https://www.sevenbendstours.com

The Best of 2022

2022 was a challenging year but we made it through the fire. A short lived job and a return to the cigar industry. And of course, a lot of Dec Therapy.

Cigars played a huge part of my Deck Therapy as well as Bourbon, Scotch, Wine and Brewskies!

Here’s my Best of List:

2022 Cigars

Espinoza Las 6 Provincias LV Robusto

Montecristo Signature Espada

Rocky Patel White Label

Espinoza Street Taco

CAO Pilón Añejo

EP Carrillo Short Run Extended Play

Diesel Disciple Lancero

Diesel Stubborn Fool

H Upmann Heritage Corona

Gurkha by Aganorsa Leaf

Kentucky Fire Cured Flying Pig

Crowned Head Le Patissier

LFD Reserva Especial

Davidoff Royal Release

CAO BX3

Gurkha Heritage

Room 101 13th Anniversary

Rocky Patel DBS

Rocky Patel 1865 Project

Padron 1926 80th Anniversary

Rocky Patel Disciple

Davidoff Gold Band Awards

Davidoff 2022 Limited Edition

La Gloria Cubana 8th Street

The Illusione of Excalibur

Rocky Patel 20 Anniversary Edge

Aganorsa Leaf Anniversario Maduro

Beverages

Jack Daniel’s Bottled-in-Bond

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked

Starlight Carl T. Huber’s Cigar Batch

A Smith Bowman Cask Strength

Old Forester Statesman

Balvenie Caribbean Cask Finish

Laugavulin 11yr. Offerman

EH Taylor Straight Rye

Center of The Universe Octoberfest

Trophy Brewing Trophy Wife IPA

Glen Manor Morales Rosé

More goodies coming the fat man’s way this year. Let’s get out and enjoy the day!

Cheers Y’all!!

Rosé at RdV

There are significant perks working for a well known restaurant. When the Front Desk’s   elder statesman came out to tell me about a company outing to RdV Vineyards, I wanted to know where I was to sign up!

Getting the opportunity to taste one of Virginia’s premiere vineyards on your employers dime is sweet and makes some members of the family “Jelly” as Shortie says all the time…he thinks he is so damn cool!

When Tish and I visited on New Years Eve 2015, our guide Jarad talked about a Rose in the tanks and would be made available exclusively to visitors of the tasting room. I really wanted to taste this wine but had no idea when I would get the chance…I did, yesterday.

I was one of the first to arrive at the vineyard and no soon than I walked through the door, they handed me a glass of the forbidden nectar.

Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon and done in stainless steel. Ripe peaches and a touch of hay on the nose. Tart strawberry and apricot on the palette with a slight feel of effervescence on the back palette. The finish had a subtle hint of leather with just a touch of tannins.

Other than Glen Manor and King Family Vineyards Rose this may be my new favorite wine. It is such a shame it isn’t available to everyone. Josh did an amazing job with this wine and I can only hope down the road it becomes a member of the the RdV wine family.

Come on Rutger, lets bottle this jewel and sell it to all. It would make this fat man happy.

Cheers my fellow winos!

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!

Atlantic City, Redux!

Once again, Shorty insisted I join him for a repeat of our trip in ’14…Oh God No!
I will not go down that road again.

SHORTY: Don’t worry, folks. The first draft of this was mostly lies. I’ve edited it for clarity and accuracy.

I went over my finances (remember, I’m still out of work) and decided I need a break from applying for work and being denied. Little did I know, a sinus issue would push me to my limits.

I medicated myself heavily. Plenty of Vitamin C and good eats. After I found the right combination of drugs, I was on my way to being 100%. However, I knew that I would have to pace myself and Shorty wasn’t going to allow me to go at grandpa speed. He was going to push this old, old, old man to his limits.

Reservations were made at The Iron Room.

Once I arrived at Shorty’s crib, he was hell bent on leaving. His eyes were dilated a slight wrinkle to his brow and a bit of a smirk. His face read anxiety, and this wasn’t normal. So we got on the road and little Mario Andretti sped around the Capital Beltway. He discussed his current work situation and it appeared he was going to be in the same ranks as I was. This would explain his demeanor (I have been binge watching Lie To Me on The Netflix; that explains my details of his big ole head.)

SHORTY: I always obey the rules of the road. Perhaps I sped a little, but only because Coop was coughing, sniffing, and gagging the entire trip.



He bitched at me about the sinus issue and kept saying; “only old people get sinus problems.” Two and half hours of old bashing, I would rather be old than short like he is.

What do you want to be when you grown little boy?

SHORTY: A cranky, old man like you?

I brought some nice Ashton 898 stogies with me. He invited me so he should enjoy the good stuff rather than the dime store variety he’s been burning. Maybe savor them after he wins the Junkies Poker Tournament.

Oh who am I kidding, he doesn’t have the patience to sit for 12 hours at poker table.

We made a pit stop once we got inside the New Jersey line. As we were getting closer to Atlantic City, he began to mellow a little. A calm had fallen across his face…give me 10 minutes I’ll have his bowels in an uproar in no time.

Then he said something that completely caught me off guard:

“You want to stop at this vineyard close to the interstate?”

Maybe there is hope for this Miller Lite swilling city boy after all.

SHORTY: I’m drinking a Miller Lite tallboy as I edit this manifest of lies.



 

Sharrott Winery was right outside of A.C. and they opened at 11, so we rolled in and it was time to broaden Shorty’s palate.

We were the first ones to taste…shocker! Their tasting options were simple, choose 6 for $8.00.

For myself, I chose Pinot Grigio, Vidal Blanc, Dry Rose´, Cabernet Franc, and their two red blends, Trio & Coeur d’Est.

 Shorty went the sweet route and I advised him to taste the Wicked, which is a Port-style. Of course, once he saw the Rose´ I was tasting, he had to sample that.

He did enjoy the Rose´…mind blowing.

Their Cabernet Franc was wonderful. Red fruit on the nose. Currant and cherry flavors on the palate with soft tannins and a hint of spice on the finish. If you’re not a red wine drinker, this would be a good wine to start evolving your palate.

As we got down to our last wines on the tasting, she let me sample the Port-style too. I explained to Shorty how this wine would go really well with a cigar. Deep rich color almost black as night. Fortified with brandy and intense flavors of black cherries. The hot alcohol finish is typical with Port-styles.

I didn’t turn him into a wino, but he’s open to tasting more down the road.

Just like last year, his agenda was to start drinking early. The Pic-a-Lilly Pub was first on the list and I knew this was going to be most entertaining. There were maybe 4 people enjoying the warm November temperatures and I’m convinced the guy sitting on the other side of the bar was at that same seat last year.

PBR Tallboys were ordered as well as the buffalo chicken egg rolls. I was still not feeling like drinking beer but Shorty had other plans. Another round was ordered and I pulled up my granny panties and knocked it back like a pro.

SHORTY: I remember a lot of complaining out of you, too. Despite the FREE FREE FREE room at Harrah’s I provided.



Now it was time to go and checked in. Some conference was in town and the check-in line was almost out the door. 30 minutes passed before we final were issued a room. This one wasn’t as nice as the suite from last year, but it will do.

After getting our bags delivered, we changed clothes and made our way to the Borgata for the evening’s festivities. We decided to grab dinner at one of the main restaurants and sandwiches and beverages were consumed and then it was time to head to the Gypsy Bar for the Junkies kick off party for their tournament.

SHORTY: I ordered a turkey reuben sandwich ($7) and was somehow charged $67 for it later. Apparently, they thought I left a $60 tip. This issue has since been resolved.

In the meantime, Shorty looked over the menu at the Iron Room. He wasn’t impressed so those reservations were canceled. I had a Plan B & C for tomorrow night!

Shorty had a plan, $3 Miller Lites were calling his name. I had another plan. I wasn’t going to have a repeat of last year and declined to enjoy the nectar from Kentucky. Instead, I chose screwdrivers. That was one way to get some Vitamin C. Then, Shorty changed his mind and ordered a Red Bull & Vodka. And proceeded to order 8 more.

I limited myself to 2 drinks as I sat back listened to the band and watched the crowd. Shorty was being the ultimate social butterfly.
SHORTY: I’m a man of the people.

And then I saw it…the mid-’80s suddenly came back to me and an old advertisement jingle began to play in my head.

“Weebles Wobble but they don’t fall down!”

Shorty looked like a pinball bouncing around the room. Tabs were paid and we made our way back to Harrah’s.

Since this was his rodeo, I allowed him to lead me out of the casino. I don’t remember getting on an elevator, but he is the pro when it comes to Atlantic City so I followed his lead. Literally I followed him to the 3rd floor of the Borgata looking for a cab.

After laughing for about 10 minutes, I pointed him in the right direction.

One good thing here, at least he didn’t insult the cab driver like he did after the Charm City Devils show in April. “Where the F@&$ is he going? We should have called a F@&$ing Uber!” Tsk, Tsk!

It was 1 a.m., and his original plan was to be up at 5 to go and observe the live broadcast of the Junkies at the B-bar. This is do-able, but in his current state maybe not.

SHORTY: Never underestimate me, son.



I had to escort him back to the room. Just like our Baltimore trip, I guided him to his bed and pushed him onto it and he was out!

An annoying alarm began to go off! He wasn’t kidding about wanting to be up at 5.

He stirred around for about 2 or 3 minutes and reset the alarm for 5:30. Bam! He was up, bitching about his head hurting and telling me to get my old ass out of bed and dressed.

I was interested in one thing…coffee and croissants. We made it to the Borgata and the B-bar and I found overpriced swill for coffee but the croissants were nice.

Then I saw it. Shorty had a drink in his hand. A shot…really for breakfast?

SHORTY: Yes, really. This ain’t Disney World, old man!



His plan was to buy the Junkies shots and drink with them. Only 2 joined in and before I knew it, the time had come to start playing poker.

I found a quiet, non-smoking area in the Borgata and began working on my blog posts for that week and I got a chapter written for my book. I met a few folks who were a part of the medical conference going on. These fine folks hooked me up with good coffee, water, and snacks. I did find a high-end wine bar, where I enjoyed an ’09 Grenache.

After having lunch at Tony Luke’s Cheese Steaks, I made my way back to our room for a short nap…don’t judge!

SHORTY: So, to recap: he didn’t get drunk the night before and yet he had to take a nap in the middle of the day in Atlantic City. Not a good look.



Texts were coming in and Shorty busted out of the Junkies Poker Open around 3 ,p.m. so he lasted 5 hours. Not bad but next year you’ll be there for the duration and win this bitch! The tournament ended at 2 a.m., so Shorty needs to work on his game.

Hungover and needing to rest, he rolled into the room got his swimming trunks on and headed to the Harrah’s pool area and the hot tubs. I found a decent glass of wine and waited for him to return. During this time, I did my research and made our plans for the evening. Va. Tech was playing football that night and there was talk about going to Hooters to watch.

SHORTY: Actually, he sat at a table next to the hot tub and refused to enjoy the 104-degree water. Why? I have no idea. I guess he doesn’t like good things.

He waddled back in the room, put on his big boy pants and off we went to dinner at Angelo’s Fairmount Tavern. This establishment has been open for 80 years, and it looked like it. The décor looked straight out of the Godfather era.

For some reason, Shorty wasn’t having a drink with dinner. Sissy!

I opted for a Chilean Malbec to go with my meal, Steak Maryland (New York Sirloin with Jumbo Lump Crab and Bleu Cheese and Gorgonzola).

Just rich goodness!

This was one of the best streaks I’ve ever had. Shorty also got a steak with a salad. He wasn’t feeling up to par so when I suggested Hooters, he wanted to go back to the room.

And he gives me crap about being old!

The next morning, we loaded up and headed over to Gilchrist Restaurant and Marina. I got a short stack and sausage while Shorty got his usual crab and spinach omelet.

SHORTY: If you go to Atlantic City and don’t eat breakfast here, you are an alien.



He was rather quiet on the trip home, but I was able to coax him into enjoying a beer for lunch at The Tilted Kilt. It seems like this trip will always end at the Tilted Kilt. It’s not a bad thing y’all!

SHORTY: Also of note, we had the same bartender as we had last year on our return home. She was not unattractive.



We got back to Shorty’s, I loaded my car up with my bags, and got directions to Whole Foods in Fair Lakes, where I picked up a couple of the pizzas for the weekend.

Tish and I did get to visit a new brewery in the area, Escutcheon Brewery in Winchester. Great beer, and we have since been back several times.

My trip to A.C. was subdued, but Shorty showed his true colors and got drunker than 10 monkeys once again. With the new year, I still need to find work, but I know that Shorty has some plans down the road and until he reveals these trips, I’m going to be leery of his plans. He has good intentions until the the first drink is consumed and then its a free for all.

Hey Shorty…wanna Red Bull and Vodka?

SHORTY: Hell yes!

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?

 

And, 164 is…

End of The Trail…for 2015.

Throughout this year, I tried to finagle a way to visit this vineyard. I considered making it number 100, 150 but, it never worked out.

Tish and I decided to keep Christmas low-key and only do one big gift together. In the back of my mind, I had an idea and it didn’t take a lot to get her on board.

In early December, I made reservations for New Years Eve to taste wine. Yes, I said reservations to taste wine.

I was surprised they had openings for the time I wanted. When the confirmation email arrived, I was already getting excited about the visit to…RdV Vineyards.

I have toured this winery on two other occasions and it was during the summer months. A tour of the vines in a golf cart, then the facility and wine caves before sitting down to taste Rutger’s two Bordeaux red blends. I said then, that the wines were some of the best in the state. I can only hope for the same outcome on this visit.

We arrived at the vineyard and I was surprised by the crowded parking lot. This tasting wouldn’t be as intimate as my previous two visits. As we walk through the door, we are greeted with complimentary Champagne. I can’t think of a better way to get a tasting started!

As we waited for two more to arrive in our group, we walked around outside enjoying the warm December temperatures. The vines are in a dormant state this time of year. They look almost naked without their leaves or grapes.

After finishing our Champagne, it was time to tour the winery.

Jarad, would be our guide today. He is a Master Sommelier and had previously worked at CityZen in D.C.

There were about 10 in our group and we began the tour in the tank room.

Samples are sent to France over night to analyzed and RdV waits for instructions for the next stage.

And we are moving to the next area…

Tubes of rock are on display to show what kind of terrior the vines are planted on. Most of Virginia have limestone on the property. There are only a few that have Granite and RdV is one of them. The rocky soil is perfect from French varietals and all grapes grown in Virginia I believe.

The barrel room or cave. A narrow walkway lined with barrels of wine on both sides. These wines won’t be made available to the public for a few more years.

Keep on cruising…

Full bottles without labels are stored in the next room. As they the wines, they will label just enough to supply their need.

Adjacent to this room is a state of the art bottling system. Not many vineyards in the state have this device simply because of the price tag. A cool million I’m sure.

Our last stop is in the lab where they do their blending of the grapes to create the two wines.

Okay, I’m ready for a tasting!

We go back up into the main room and a table is set up with 3 oz. pours of the two wines that are available with a small plate of cheeses and meats.

’12 Lost Mountain, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. A magnificent bouquet of currants, rosemary, lavender and graphite on the nose. Soft, medium bodied wine with concentrated flavors of pomegranate, raspberry with a subtle touch of leather on the palate. Perfect tannins with a cherry notes on the finish. This wine will age well over the next few years. The perfect wine to pair with the big robust pasta dishes.

’12 Rendezvous, a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Robust dark red fruits with a smoky bacon essence on the nose. Supple flavors of cranberries with some cherry notes and a touch of smoke on the palate. Just the right tannins with a hint of spiciness on the finish make this one of the best wines of the year for me.

I will say this again, this vineyard is still one of the states best.

My final total from 2015 is…164!

Now, I have set the goal for you to match or beat. Don’t be scared, it is doable.

Now, it is time to recap and do a year in review or the best of. This will take a while so give me a little time to go through my notes and compile my final results.

This has been a fun year even though I am still looking for work. But who knows, the next vineyard is right around the corner as well as my next employer. Just remember…

Every Day IS A GOOD DAY!

Cheers Y’all!

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!