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!

An Incredible View

I seem to be drawn to this area. As I continue my tour of Virginia wineries, I enjoy visiting this part of the state.
My plan included secondary roads to get me to the Crozet area. Once I dropped over Afton Mountain, I was only a few miles away from the first stop of the day, Grace Estate Vineyard.

The estate to the left has an amazing view.

A new tasting room down near the road was a surprise. We enjoyed our first visit in the estate on the hill a few years ago. I wanted to visit the estate and take a few photos, I was told no. This is reserved to events especially weddings. That’s most unfortunate.

After startling the young lady in the tasting room (I scared the hell out of her), she began pouring their wines.

’13 Estate Le Gras Cuve, a refreshing wine of Vidal Blanc and Petit Manseng. Heavy aromas of lemon and lime with crips tropical fruits on the palate. Intense acids with a honey finish help round out a very nice wine. I could see this wine being used to make a white Sangria using white peaches, a splash of simple syrup and even cucumbers and a sprig of mint. Is it time to head to the porch?

’13 Petit Verdot, a deep ruby red color. Earthy and tobacco aromas filled my nose. Jammy notes of currants on the mid-palate with a subtle cranberry finish with smooth tannins. LOVE THIS!

About a mile away was my next stop, Stinson Vineyards.

Here are my favorites:

’14 Sauvignon Blanc, an elegant wine done in stainless, oak and in the egg which is made of concrete. A floral nose of tropical fruits – especially lemon. Intense flavors of peaches and grapefruit. The surprising mineral finish is from the concrete egg. With this much acid and flavors, I can see this wine paired with heavy curry Indian dishes.

’13 Sugar Hollow Red, a rich red colored Merlot. A fruit forward wine with bold dark cherry flavors. The oak and toasty flavors on the palate. Low, soft tannins leads to mild finish.

A bonus pour from Stinson Vineyards. I enjoyed this one too!

Another nice visit and then it was on to number 3 of the day, White Hall Vineyards.

My last visit was in June of last year. I truly enjoyed their Petit Verdot.

I had to settle for these:

’14 Pinot Gris, French oak and stainless give this wine a golden hue. Soft citrus aromas in the glass, with in your face flavors of lemon on the palate. The low acid gives this wine a soft finish. A lobster roll or crab cake is what I would be my go to grub with this bottle.

NV Cabernet Sauvignon, with 75% Cab Sauv. and about 25% Touriga. A spicy nose of white pepper and rich dark berry flavors on the palate. The softer tannins were surprising as I was expecting bolder, crunchier tannins.

I always enjoy this vineyard!

The narrow, paved mountain road takes me about 4 miles to next vineyard, Mountfair VIneyards.

When you pull into the parking lot and see a cast iron bathtub in the yard, you know you are in the hills. Relax, there were no banjo’s playing but the day is still early.

The tasting consisted of their wines and a local cider from Potters.

As for the wines, here are both red they had to offer:

’13 WooLooMooLoo, a blend of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon & Tannat. A deep rich color with spectacular notes of dark fruits and licorice. A fruit forward with dark cherries on the palate. The finish is a cigar smokers dream, rich leathery and tobacco round out this wine.

’13 Bonfire, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Tannat. A surprise of jammy big fruits on the nose. Mega flavors of currants, cherries and blackberries coat the palate. The finish really softens with cherry and low tannins. This wine would pair well with Chicago-style deep dish pizza. The flavors from the rich sauce and the wine would be complete Utopia.

Some of my favorite reds in the state!

One of the downfalls of being in this area is Siri doesn’t want to play. I did my best trying to connect with her and she was just not wanting to let me in. So, I relied on the old way to maneuver an actual map, but that didn’t go too well.

Based on what the states map said, I was heading into the right direction, The road began as a paved road before it turned to gravel. It was like being in Kentucky all over again and seeing the sign that said “Stay out or get shot!” I was not comfortable to say the least.

After about 15 minutes I was seeing houses that weren’t occupied, or I thought they weren’t. And then I saw my savior, a UPS truck. I knew he could give me directions. After a brief chat, he had me on my way.

In 7-8 minutes, I reached one of the coolest wineries in the state, Glass House VIneyards. As you walk into their doors, one of the first things you see are banana trees. A gorgeous green house of exotic flowers and plants line the table for folks to enjoy a glass or a bottle.

As for the wines:

’14 Pinot Gris, a sumptuous wine. Fruity nose with crisp apricot flavors on the mouth. A nice mineral finish makes this the perfect wine for sushi.

’12 21st, a Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec. A heavenly smoky nose, Rich cherry, currants and blackberries fill the palate. The tannins are chewy which makes for a spicy black pepper finish.

So Cool!

Just a few miles away, is a vineyard that has one of the most incredible views I have ever seen…Moss Vineyard.

Such a great view!

As for the wines:

’14 Viognier, wild tropical fruits permeate the glass. Floral honeysuckle on the palate with just a touch of mineral to round out the low acid finish.

’13 Vino Rosso, a red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Earthy notes with structured flavors of bright red fruit. Sweet cherries and low tannins on the finish.

At this point, I looked at my time to see if it was possible to visit number 7 of the day. Just 3 miles away, is my next stop or so I thought.

I talked to the young man behind the tasting bar about the vineyard. Then, the 2 couples spoke up and told me I couldn’t leave this area without a visit to Stone Mountain Vineyards. I have heard about them and their narrow road leading to the vineyard.

So, I followed my new friends 1,700 ft. up the mountain to, what I’m convinced as…the best view in the state from a vineyard. Oh others boast their views but hands down, the most incredible view I have seen thus far.

Stone Mountain Vineyards, this could be the best view in the state!

I almost forgot, I’m here for the wine.

’14 Chardonnay Reserve, done in Stainless and Hungarian oak. Fruity nose and smoky melon flavors on the palate. The spiciness is from the oak that leaves just and hint of butter on the finish.

Merlot, this medium bodied wine is rich in color. Blackberries on the nose and dark cherry on the palate. Silky tannins make this a well balanced wine.

After that added bonus, that brought my days total to 7. And with this tour it brings my 2015 total to 115.

Next week, I’m thinking of either coming back to this area or going south to the Roanoke area to see what the wines are like down there.

This has been fun so far.

6!

92…I’m so close to 100 I can almost taste it.Charlottesville was just beckoning me to visit again.
Thursday seemed to be the best day to head south. The weather was absolutely gorgeous. Trying to drive that way via the interstate was a joke. I ended up dropping off of I-81 in New Market and made my way toward Nelson County on Rt 340.

The drive was so nice I was wishing I had someone chauffeuring me to my destination. This way I could have enjoyed an afternoon buzz on a country road. Stop at a local convenient store and get an ice cold bottle of Boones Farm to sip on my way down the road. However, I just trudged through the area to my first stop of the day.

I kept debating whether to stop here now or later. Screw It, now is the time!

Jefferson Vineyards was my first stop of the day.

When folks ask me to pick my top vineyards in Virginia. This one ALWAYS makes my list and here is why:

’14 Viognier, a refreshing wine that has a wonderful fruity nose. Peaches and melon permeate my glass. Light sweet apricots on the palate that surprisingly transitions to heavy citrus finish of lemon zest. I have not been a big fan of Virginia Viognier until now. Even my redneck friends from the Class of ’83 would drink this wine. Okay maybe not.

’13 Petit Verdot, deep, dark burgundy colored wine. This full bodied wine, as you know, is one of my favorite varietals. A bouquet of smoke, leather and a touch of earth. Jammy fruits on the palate that turn to some of the heaviest tannins I’ve experienced this year. I! Love! This! Wine!

Just to the south, are 3 so close to each other that it’s insane.

Blenheim Vineyards, in December of ’13, Tish and I stopped and tasted here. If you are a true music fan, you know that this vineyard is owned by Dave Matthews. Anytime I think of him, his song: Jimi Thing always pops into my head. A nearly empty tasting room has the fat man very happy. They only had one white wine on the tasting sheet and I would rather talk about the reds.

’13 Grenache, a nice medium bodied wine. It’s actually a blend of Grenache, Syrah & Mouvedre so technically it is a GSM. Dark red fruits on the nose, A smooth pepperiness on the palate. The finish was of pomegranate with just a touch of tannins. This is your pizza wine.

’13 Cab. Franc, a rich colored wine. Aromas of green pepper on the nose. Plums, currants and dark cherry on the palate. A finish of white pepper shows this wine could give some of the big boys in this state a run for their money.

Hell, I could have walked to the next vineyard on my list. But, it wouldn’t be safe & I’m too fat to do so.

Trump Vineyards, this used to be Kluge Estate Vineyards until the Donald bought it a few years ago.

We haven’t been here since ’13 and their tastings have changed. Before, they offered 3 options: Bubbly, Whites or Reds.

Now, it is a straight shot from Bub to Reds. A long list and I was able to find a few to enjoy.

’09 Sparkling Blanc de Blanc, a Champaign style made from Chardonnay. A bright color with nice fruits of apple and pear on the nose. Wonderful effervescence on the palate with a crisp citrus finish.

This may sound crazy but a friend told me to try this and it is amazing. Potato chips would pair nicely with this wine. Yes, I said potato chips.

’12 New World Reserve, a medium bodied blend of Merlot, Cab. Fanc, Cab Sauv. & Petit Verdot. Complex aromas of peppers will the glass. Dark red fruits were noticeable on the palate. Nice tannins that gave way to a soft spicy finish. A nice surprise!

My next stop has me a little nervous. When I heard Gabriele Rousse had finally opened his tasting room, I was very excited to meet one of Virginia’s original wine innovators.

It was, just a lone “Tasting Room” sign hung on a crane boom and I drove right past it.

Cool building situated in the woods. A nice crowd of 6 were there as well as the man himself.

As for the wines:

’13 Chardonnay Reserve, golden in color. Buttery aromas were heavy on the nose. Vanilla and oak were dominate on the palate. An apricot flavor on the end, this was one of my favorites of the day.

’12 Nebbiolo Reserve, a light bodied wine, a nose of leather with a touch of dry herbs. Jammy notes of dark red fruits on the palate. The finish, WOW, big bold, heavy, chewy tannins. I would like to see this paired with a wild mushroom lasagna with a rich savory gravy. The tomato sauce would help balance the tannins on the finish.

Here is a pic with the man I like to refer to as one of Virginia’s Godfathers of Wine:

And it was time to visit my last stop of the day. I headed toward Crozet, Va. to visit King Family Vineyards.

I always looked forward to their reds but, it was their Rose´ that shined.

’14 Crose´ a blend of Merlot and Cab Sauv. this Rose´ has aromas of cherry and strawberry on the nose. A citrus presence on the palate with fresh acidity. A crisp balanced finish, makes this wine another favorite of the day.

’14 Cab. Franc, a nice nose of red fruit, with subtle flavors of pepper on the palate. An oaky yet minerality finish. This wine will shine in a few years. This would be your pizza wine.

After marking 5 off the list, it brings me to 97 for year, but I’m not done yet!

With Tish having to work on Sunday, I decided to visit the newest vineyard in the Shenandoah Valley, James Charles Winery.

Close to Winchester, Va. this is another creation from the owners of Veramar Vineyards.

A nice crowd had gathered to taste on this hot humid day.

My picks from J. C. Winery:

Riesling, this is not your typical varietal. Honeysuckle and apricots on the nose. Tart, citrus with a slight effervescence on the palate. The dry grapefruit finish made me want a glass but I refrained for the moment.

Petit Verdot, now you see why I waited. Leathery and just a touch of cigar smoke. Jammy flavors of blackberry and currants filled my mouth. The finish was a bit toasty with firm tannins. Here is the meat wine! A nice prime rib with roasted veggies would really go well with this bottle.

I debated what glass to enjoy and I opted for the Petit Verdot.

So with the extra bonus, I’m now at 98 for the year.

Next Friday, I will hit the mark and maybe more!

In The Beginning…

After dealing with the Polar Vortex earlier in the week, I had a relatively warm day to start my re-visit tour. Temperatures were around 45º and I got on the road mid morning. Of course, lunch was on my mind and I thought about stopping at a local “choke & puke” (Smokey & The Bandit reference) but remembered I had a food option at the first vineyard.

I jumped on back roads to Loudoun County and found my way to Gilbert’s Corner (intersection of Route 50 & 15). About a half a mile North on 15 is Quattro Goombas Winery. The wines are made the Mediterranean style with the reds being the bright spot of my visit. After talking with the owner, I selected their “Tradizione” red blend. Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cab Franc & Cab Sauv made up this concoction. After the a short stay in stainless tanks, it is then transferred into Bourbon barrels.

A smooth tasting wine with the slightest touch of Tannins. There is a subtle peppery finish which doesn’t usually occur with this combination of grapes.  It even has a sweetness from the bourbon barrels. Now I did say I was going to eat. I remember the owners were working on a Sicilian-style pizza crust on my last visit. They now offer pizza by the slice and with a limited selection of toppings. Ground pepperoni sounded interesting and I tried that along with a slice of cheese. A light fluffy crust with the right blend of sauce made for an added treat.

I’m burning daylight and I jump into my ride and make the trek back toward the hills. The next stop on the tour was in Delaplane, Va. Three Fox Vineyards. I arrived early enough to not have to rush through a tasting like I did in ’12. I’m greeted at the door by the house dog and the young lady pouring my wine. With it being on Friday afternoon, my tasting would be from a limited list. On the weekends, the list is expanded to some reserve wines and we will have to make a trip one weekend to get the opportunity to taste them.

They make Italian style wines and the Pinot Grigio & Cab Franc were the ones I could have sat and enjoyed.

You should make the trip out to these places and see if they have a wine to put in your cellar.