8 VA Wines You Should Try

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1. Meritage ’10, Jefferson Vineyards

jefferson

1353 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy., Charlottesville, Virginia 229
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Merlot and Cabernet Franc dominate the 2010 Meritage, leading with aromas of black cherry, anise, and vanilla, while plum, spice, and orange peel cover the palate. Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon provide rich color and hearty tannins, softened by the liberal use of new French oak barrels and a two and a half year maturation process.

2. Reflection, Beliveau Estate

beliveau

5415 Gallion Ridge Rd, Blacksburg, Virginia 24060
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2012 dry Traminette with overtones of lime and tropical flowers. This wine is 100% Traminette. Unlike their 2011 vintage, this wine did not go through a sur lies ferment so they have a dry yet fruity wine that is more similar to an eastern European Gewurtz. Reflection pairs very well with Thai and other Asian cuisine as well as fall baking spices. Great with pumpkin pie!

3. Cynthia Dessert Wine, Hague Winery

Cynthia

8268 Cople Hwy, Hague, VA 22469
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This sweet Muscat dessert wine is very aromatic with hints of peach, orange blossoms, and tropical fruit. The abundant nose and clean finish are an ideal match with fruit and cheese; a perfect aperitif or after dinner treat.

4. Topiary ’11, Boxwood Winery

boxwood

2042 Burrland Road, Middleburg, Virginia 20117
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An elegant red wine reminiscent of the right bank of Bordeaux. A blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes. An elegant, silky, soft, garnet hued wine. Floral notes on the nose with a hint of red fruit. Stawberry, cherry and raspberry notes are followed by violet and sweet tannins. This light to medium bodied wine has savory and delicate herbs with a touch of thyme lingering on the palette.

5. North Garden Red ’11, Wisdom Oak Winery

wisdom

3613 Walnut Branch Lane, North Garden, Virginia 22959
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Big fruit on the nose, along with whispers of white pepper and dulce de leche. Silken on the palette and notably fruity, the first impression is of cherries and currants, relaxing to a finish that is pleasantly herbaceous. A unique Virginian blend that is decidedly Pinotesque in character. 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Petit Verdot, 10% Cabernet Franc. Best served chilled.

6. Chardonnay Reserve, Virginia Mountain Vineyards

vamtn

4204 Old Fincastle Rd, Fincastle, Virginia 24090-3559
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A complex full-bodied chardonnay aged in French oak to achieve a smooth finish. An excellent complement to seafood, pork, and heavy cream-based dishes. Best served chilled.

7. Merlot 2011, Rosemont of Virginia Vineyards & Winery

rosemont

1050 Blackridge Road, La Crosse, Virginia 23950
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Features aromas of black fruit, exotic spice and sweet pipe tobacco. A soft start leads to a bold finish with well structured tannins.

8. Petit Manseng

pippin

5022 Plank Road, Charlottesville, Virginia 22959
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The Petit Manseng is a French white varietal grape that is harvested late in the cycle to allow the residual sugars to reach higher levels. The 2010 harvest year was memorable, with long, sunny days and limited rain. Perfect for the late harvest. This is a classic dessert style wine, with balanced acidity and a range of tropical fruit and honey flavors. Fermented in stainless and new oak barrels, it has a complex and soft balanced taste. To be served chilled. This Petit Manseng pairs well with everything from dessert cakes, to fruit; it can also be drunk alone, as an apéritif.

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