by Keith M » Sat Jan 19, 2008 6:40 pm
Ron,
I visited a number of Virginia wineries when I lived in the region from 2004 to 2006 -- so I can share my impressions with you, though I have do not have a long track record in following Virginia wines, but here goes . . .
My top three to visit in the Charlottesville area would be pretty easy to pick. Barboursville Vineyards has invested a lot of time and a lot of money to bring out the potential in Virginia's wines. I think they have done a great job. Lots of Italian grapes here (for example, Pinot Grigio and Barbera) along with a large selection of other varieties and blends (including one of the best cabernet francs in Virginia). The tasting room experience is not all that intimate, but people are very friendly and educational and the grounds offer the opportunity to visit the remains of the ruined Barbour mansion. Blenheim Vineyards offers a narrower range of choices but some of the best wines available in Virginia in my opinion. The winemaker, Brad McCarthy is a hoot and clearly demonstrates and shares his passion about every stage and aspect of the winemaking process--from growing the fruit to the incremental decisions made in the winemaking process. Even when his stylistic choices do not reflect my own preferences, I still have enormous respect for what he is able to achieve. Third, though I know some on this forum don't share my enthusiasm, I recommend a visit to Horton Cellars--the place is kitschy (a faux Tudor palace or something like that) but the wines are crazier, more experimental, and more reasonably priced than has become the Virginia norm. Not to mention (which, of course, I will mention) that Dennis Horton and his wines are institutions that shaped Virginian wine development and the learning curve of many Virginia winemakers. I have always had lots of fun on visits there.
In the honorable mention category, where I had good experiences and was sufficiently impressed that I would like to return and see if they have lived up to the potential that I thought I saw, I would include King Family, Veritas, Whitehall, and Keswick. I have had really good wines from all of these producers, but haven't had enough experience over time to make a real call on their quality as producers.
And, an aside on a place that has one of the best views at a Virginia winery: Stone Mountain. I can't say I was wowed by their wines, but if you are in the area, it is worth the curvy drive up to the top to enjoy a glass with the view.
