Virginia Day Two--------Beyond Jefferson's Vines and Further!
Beyond Jefferson's Vines
There is absolutely no challenge to the fact that the very main reason why the State of Virginia is what it is concerning wine centers around the passion of one man-----Thomas Jefferson. Without his enthusiasm, dedication, travels and writings I would dare say that much less would have been accomplished. Jefferson, in his portrayal of the French wine industry during his lifetime, induced to the common man a legacy of "what could be" and in his attempts to produce wine in Virginia "what was to be!"
Richare Leahy is a well known historian, wine writer, sommelier and author of "Beyond Jefferson's Vines" a book describing the advent and production of wine in Virginia. Richard's knowledge on and about wine goes much further than just Virginia.
His experience as Mid Atlantic and South Editor for the Oxford Companion of Wines in North America and his editorial experience with Vineyard & Winery Management (East Coast) in addition to his participation in the organizing of wine events in the United States have made him invaluable as an addition to any group involved in the field of wine.
Richard quickly became a trusted and very caring friend in whom I have great respect for. The man was and is awesome when it comes to listening a knowledgeable person speak so fluently about one's favourite subject. His words flowed so easily and his knowledge is so very wide.
My friend, you have my very well earned respect. Incidentally, Richard's "Beyond Jefferson's Vines" is now updated and in its second printing. Congratulations my friend.
Loudoun County
Loudoun County is 521 square miles of American History. Echoes of the past intermingle with the sounds and sights of the present almost everywhere one goes. Always quite rich in agriculture, it was known as "The Breadbasket of the Revolution" for having sustained George Washington's army with its grain during the American Revolution.Loudoun County is also known for its battles during the American Civil War.
While Loudoun remains a notable agricultural community with strong ties to the equine, food and wine industries, it also has a very powerful service economy. Due to its proximity to Washington and also Dulles International Airport many major companies have their operations in it.
Morining At The Salamander
My room at the luxurious Salamander Hotel was well situated to display the serene beauty of the scene outside my room's window balcony. When I awoke the morning after I arrived, the sun was just starting to push its way through the mist that had befallen the gorgeous grounds of this 350 plus Equestrian Themed Resort and was reflecting itself off the left sides of several buildings. It could have been a page out of any number of romantic novels and I actually had to pinch myself as to how breathtakingly gorgeous the scene of sunlight fighting its way onto the green, slightly frosted lawns. Pencils of light were illuminated and reflected from the minute crystals that formed with the frost covered greenery. I could have looked at this sight for much longer period of time had my growling stomach advised me to search in an other direction.
Breakfast was the quick version of a muffin and a copious amount of coffee, it was time to head out for our first winery of the day. Our first stop was to be Northgate Winery.
Northgate Winery
16031 Hillsboro Road
Purcellville, VA 20132
info@northgatevineyard.com
540.668.6248
Situated on approximately 26 acres in the northwest part of Loudoun County, Virginia at the east base of the Short Hill Foothill Mountains, North Gate Vineyard produces high quality wine grapes for its wines. North Gate's Tasting Room is LEED Gold Certified, and is 100% solar powered. It features indoor and outdoor fireplaces, a covered patio, and amazingly scenic mountain and vineyard views .
We were met by husband and wife wine making team of Mark and Vicki Fedor who have been growing grapes since 2002 and making wine since 2003.
"We take pride in growing the best grapes possible and making them into the best wine possible!" said Mark. "You can make a good wine from a recipe but to make a great wine one must strive to exceed that formula by understanding his vines, the soil they grow in and everything that goes into making it. Indeed both he and Vicki have done just that.
While grapes are grown on their estate, not all the wines are made from estate grown grapes. However, both winemakers know as much about the estates where their grapes come from as their own.
The Wine
Viognier 2013 (Loudoun County)
This is a 100% single variety with tropical flavours, some citrus/floral notes on both nose and palate.. Immediately appealing to the senses with an accent on vanilla spice. The wine is made up partially
of wines grown locally and from vines grown elsewhere in Loudoun County.
I do prefer the above as both an aperitif and meal wine.
Chardonnay 2013 (Loudoun Couty)
A 100% Chardonnay with apple/pear/peach on the nose and ripe apple, citrus mix and tropical/vanilla on palate. Citrus taste carries through to finish. Vines are not estate grown but all from Loudoun County appellation.
Cabernet Franc 2012 (Virginia)
While a single variety on "paper", the wine contains 2.5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Nice raspberry/cherry on nose with currant nuances. Touch of mint in the background and pepper on the nose. Red fruit with medium body on the palate. Pleasant finish with a recurrence of the mint. Vines are not estate grown.
Merlot (Loudoun County) 2012
Another "single" variety with a touch of other wine available. 95% Merlot versus 5% Cabernet Sauvingon. The vines are not estate grown but are Loudoun appellation. On the nose there is black fruit of some ripeness, tobacco smoke plus cassis with a touch of pepper. On the palate the wine is medium to full in body, similar fruit as nose. Smoke permeates the lower "back of throat" nasal after swallowing and there is a lingering oak on the finish.
Meritage (Loudoun County) 2012
This wine is definitely a blend similar to that of the Bordeaux style. 50% Cabernet Sauvingnon, 30% Merlot, 15% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc. This Meritage had a nose full of berries and currants but also it exhibited mint, coffee and chocolate nuances which were repeated on the palate. The wine was medium to full bodied with a lingering finish. Once more the appellation here was Loudoun although none of the wine was produced by the estate.
Petit Verdot (Loudoun County) 2012
This wine was produced entirely from grapes cultivated at the winery by the winemakers and staff.
The wine had cedar/tobacco smoke and floral on the nose. Medium bodied with blackberry/raspberry notes plus tobacco/smoke and plum on the palate. The wine was definitely on the verge and attracted a small following prior to our visit ending.
Apple Wine 2012
Fresh, clean and luscious juice was my first thought when I tasted the apple wine. A nice pleasant drink that, when appropriately cold, would be perfect for a warm, steamy summer night.
North Gate was a very inspiring winery to visit and basically started our journey in a most excellent manner. The group of wine writers from the USA, Britain and Canada were now anticipating what was around the next corner! Our next stop, Breaux!
Breaux Vineyards
36888 Vineyards Lane
Purceville, Virginia 20132
540-668-6299
info@breauxvineyards.com
If great wine was synonymous with fine scenery, then the wines of Breaux would be classed as the best anywhere. The scenery one encountered as the bus dusted its way down the winery driveway towards a dining area was one of the best that I had seen anywhere with a plethora of multicolored flower bushes surrounding the landscaped perimeters of the winery.
We were met by Jennifer Breaux Blosser, daughter to Breaux's President and CEO, E. Paul Breaux Junior. She had set up a luncheon for the group-----matching Breaux's fine wine to the meal. First she described a bit about the winery's history and philosophy.
Apparently Breaux started its life as a log cabin circa 1750. What was a hobby turned into a serious winery which eventually reached a capacity of some 50,000 gallons with a current 10,000 case capacity. Presently the winery is undergoing expansion.
Jennifer took over the day to day operations from her father several years ago and is now the Director of Sales and Hospitality.
Jennifer also introduced us to winemaker Heather Munden, U of Davis graduate who acquired a great reputation as a wine consultant for wineries in Italy, Australia, Chile,New Zealand and California. Heather explained the philosophy behind the Breaux wine making.
The Wine
Sauvignon Blanc (2013)
On the nose the wine had herbal spice, green apple and citrus lime. On the palate it was medium bodied, green apple, peach and vegetal flavour. Nice acidity led to a crisp, dry finish.
Cabernet Sauvignon (2010)
On the nose this wine expressed red fruit, anise, clove spice. On the palate it was full bodied with some red/black fruit flavours especially cherry along with a touch of black pepper. Oak was slightly present and the finish lengthy.
Meritage (2007)
Nose expressed chocolate, coffee, dark fruit with some mint.The wine palate was full bodied with ripe dark fruit, oak, pepper. Long in finish.
Cabernet Franc Reserve (2007)
Highly concentrated with concentrated dark fruit, liquorice/anise, tobacco smoke, walnuts on both nose and palate. Palate was also full in body. Very powerful and lengthy finish.
Soleil (2006)
Nose has full of lychee, honey, melon pear, ripe fig and citrus flavours with a palate of jam, lychee, honey, apricot, peach and fig flavours.
The Meal
The group was also treated with a lovely lunch provided by Bluewater Kitchen, a first class catering company, matched with three other Breaux wines.
First Course
Roasted Chilly Hollow Farm Squash & Spice with Spring Farm Bacon
Accompanying Wine: Viognier (2013)
Nose: floral, melon, tropical fruit and tropical spice. Palate was medium, concentrated, some toastiness with smoke, white fruit, citrus and pebbles on the finish.
Second Course
Coq Au Vin with Braised spring farm chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, fall vegetables, oyster mushrooms.
Accompanying wine: Nebbiolo (2006)
Nose: cherry, fig, licorice, smoke with a palate of red fruit, chocolate/coffee. Forward tannins and very pleasant mouth feel.
Dessert
Challah and Brioche Bread Pudding with raisins, honey crisp apples, bourbon creme Anglaise.
Accompanying Wine: Lineage
Nose: Port like made using the Solera system! Coffee, ground nuts, chocolate, plum, dark plums and a soft, delicate finish.
The wine and meal went very well and every wine was an excellent example of a wine/food match. Our next destination was to Fabbioli Cellars in Leesburg.
Fabbioli Cellars
Owner University of California Davis educagted Doug Fabbioli acquired his skill as a wine maker through his employ at such vineyards as Buena Vista in California, Tarara, Windham and a number of other wineries in Virginia. His experience in working with such renowned wine makers as Andre Tchelicheff and Anne Moller-Racke (who is now President and Winegrower of Donum Estate in California) enabled him to move forward with his plans for making first class wine in Virginia.
In 2000 along with his wife, Colleen, he purchased 25 acres of land near Leesburg, Virginia planting Merlot and Petit Verdot in 2001.
On our first meeting, he reminded me of the former wrestler Jessie Ventura in his enthusiastic speech and passion for wine. He immediately stuck me as being an innovator and leader----definitely not a follower. His commanding voice and "western-edge" in his demeanor communicated his style and determination. No wonder this guy was/is a success.
His philosophy of wine circulates around education and the environment with the end result being a saving that is passed on to the consumer but eventually allowing the winery to make a profit. Organic or sustainable agriculture is the key which allows a balance between the growing of the vines and producing excellent crops/wine and allowing nature to rule rather than using artificial methods to secure a successful product. Nothing is left for chance. Vines are carefully monitored. The soil is naturally replenished. Geothermal units are used for hot water production and climate control. Natural pesticides and fungicides are used. Education and updating for staff is a priority.
The result is a superior product of Bordeaux style wine that any winery would be proud of.
The Tasting
Wine: Something White
A blend of Viognier, Vidal, Chardonnay was paired with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Spread on Crackers.
Wine: Chambourcin
Light and spicy red with with an earthy/dark fruit flavour matched with stuffing.
Wine: Cabernet Franc Reserve
Medium to full bodied wine with red and dark fruit, pepper and oak flavours matched with Peppered Turkey.
Wine: Tre Soreille
A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc in descending order of percentage. Red fruit and floral on nose and red fruit on the palate. Matched with Wensieydale Cranberry Cheese.
Wine: Zinfandel
Rich and jammy red fruit on nose with dark fruit, figs, anise spice on palate matched with Dried Pomegranate/Brie on Crackers.
Wine: Raspberry Merlot
Medium sweet Raspberry/Merlot blend. Fruit, cinnamon spice and wood matched with Raspberry/Merlot Truffles.
Wine:Pear Port
A sweet Port style wine matched with Pumpkin Fudge.
The wines at Fabbioli showed what talent and passion could do if applied well. However we still had one more winery to view on our second day in Virginia and that was Tarara!
Tarara Winery
The historic and beautiful surroundings of the Potomac River is the site of 475 acres devoted to Tarara Winery's vines. Here owners Whitie and Margaret Hubert set up shop in 1985 with the intent of developing first class vines and wines. Starting with Chardonnay, they moved on to Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot,
We were welcomed to the winery by the winemaker/general manager, Jordan Harris. Jordan is Canadian and was educated at Niagara College in St. Catherine's Ontario. He was a top sommelier taster placing first in a National Sommelier Competition and also place third in the World in a similar contest.
Jordan was very gregarious and friendly as he discussed his wines and philosophy of wine making. He believes that "less is more" which basically means that the less you tamper with a wine and make wine that you like to drink, you will get a far better product. He prefers his white wines to show "delicacy, complexity and density" with good "mouth feel". As for his reds, The reds are vinified to produce greatest extraction of ripe fruit. The cap is gently managed via a system of gentle bubbles versus heavy punch downs. Punch down in certain lots is done by hand.
The reds are aimed to be complex and balanced with little or no fining/filtration. This allows for greater development and longevity.
White Wine
Charval:
Blend of Chardonnay, Rkatsiteli (Georgian ancient white grape), Sauvignon Blanc, Petit Manseng.
Has good acidity, citrus lemon, pineapple, herbal/grass.
Navaeh:
A Chardonnay/Viognier blend with floral notes on both nose and palate. Tropical fruit and citrus with great concentration.
Chardonnay:
Citrus orange/apple pie/tropical fruit on nose with pleasant acid freshness on the mouth palate. Nice wine that shows promise for future development.
Red Wine
Tranquility:
Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon/Tannat with black fruit, cedar wood, blackberry and cassis on nose and palate with a rich concentration of tannin with subtle smoke and currant. Great ager!
Navaeh (Red):
A Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon blend with red and black fruit namely blackberry/plum on nose. Palate is similar with a great deal of ripe fruit flavours and smoke on the finish.
Meritage:
Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon blend. Dark and red fruits with plum concentration and cedar wood. Palate is similar with ripe forward tannins and blackberry flavours. Chocolate underscores the fruit flavours with a nice smokey/vanilla finish.
Once again the wines proved to be inspiring to say the least. The thing to keep in mind here is that the all with wines from all the wineries tasted so far revealed a penchant for food pairing.
This was the last winery of the day but the fun was not over yet since a grand dinner awaited us at the great Salamander Resort where we were staying.
It was a nice way to end a long day. A five course dinner with matching wine at the Salamander Resort. We watched the group of chefs prepare a sumptuous meal that culminated in one of the nicest feasts that ever existed. The wine and food matches were amazing and the fabulous fillet mignon was one of the best I ever tasted. The dessert---a Creme Brulee---was sumptuous and though I am not usually a dessert person, I finished it to the very last spoon. One of my colleagues actually commented that it was the first dessert that she saw me eat totally. The end to a perfect and very busy day.
End of Day Two.
There is absolutely no challenge to the fact that the very main reason why the State of Virginia is what it is concerning wine centers around the passion of one man-----Thomas Jefferson. Without his enthusiasm, dedication, travels and writings I would dare say that much less would have been accomplished. Jefferson, in his portrayal of the French wine industry during his lifetime, induced to the common man a legacy of "what could be" and in his attempts to produce wine in Virginia "what was to be!"
Richare Leahy is a well known historian, wine writer, sommelier and author of "Beyond Jefferson's Vines" a book describing the advent and production of wine in Virginia. Richard's knowledge on and about wine goes much further than just Virginia.
His experience as Mid Atlantic and South Editor for the Oxford Companion of Wines in North America and his editorial experience with Vineyard & Winery Management (East Coast) in addition to his participation in the organizing of wine events in the United States have made him invaluable as an addition to any group involved in the field of wine.
Richard quickly became a trusted and very caring friend in whom I have great respect for. The man was and is awesome when it comes to listening a knowledgeable person speak so fluently about one's favourite subject. His words flowed so easily and his knowledge is so very wide.
My friend, you have my very well earned respect. Incidentally, Richard's "Beyond Jefferson's Vines" is now updated and in its second printing. Congratulations my friend.
Loudoun County
Loudoun County is 521 square miles of American History. Echoes of the past intermingle with the sounds and sights of the present almost everywhere one goes. Always quite rich in agriculture, it was known as "The Breadbasket of the Revolution" for having sustained George Washington's army with its grain during the American Revolution.Loudoun County is also known for its battles during the American Civil War.
While Loudoun remains a notable agricultural community with strong ties to the equine, food and wine industries, it also has a very powerful service economy. Due to its proximity to Washington and also Dulles International Airport many major companies have their operations in it.
Morining At The Salamander
My room at the luxurious Salamander Hotel was well situated to display the serene beauty of the scene outside my room's window balcony. When I awoke the morning after I arrived, the sun was just starting to push its way through the mist that had befallen the gorgeous grounds of this 350 plus Equestrian Themed Resort and was reflecting itself off the left sides of several buildings. It could have been a page out of any number of romantic novels and I actually had to pinch myself as to how breathtakingly gorgeous the scene of sunlight fighting its way onto the green, slightly frosted lawns. Pencils of light were illuminated and reflected from the minute crystals that formed with the frost covered greenery. I could have looked at this sight for much longer period of time had my growling stomach advised me to search in an other direction.
Breakfast was the quick version of a muffin and a copious amount of coffee, it was time to head out for our first winery of the day. Our first stop was to be Northgate Winery.
Northgate Winery
16031 Hillsboro Road
Purcellville, VA 20132
info@northgatevineyard.com
540.668.6248
Situated on approximately 26 acres in the northwest part of Loudoun County, Virginia at the east base of the Short Hill Foothill Mountains, North Gate Vineyard produces high quality wine grapes for its wines. North Gate's Tasting Room is LEED Gold Certified, and is 100% solar powered. It features indoor and outdoor fireplaces, a covered patio, and amazingly scenic mountain and vineyard views .
We were met by husband and wife wine making team of Mark and Vicki Fedor who have been growing grapes since 2002 and making wine since 2003.
"We take pride in growing the best grapes possible and making them into the best wine possible!" said Mark. "You can make a good wine from a recipe but to make a great wine one must strive to exceed that formula by understanding his vines, the soil they grow in and everything that goes into making it. Indeed both he and Vicki have done just that.
While grapes are grown on their estate, not all the wines are made from estate grown grapes. However, both winemakers know as much about the estates where their grapes come from as their own.
The Wine
Viognier 2013 (Loudoun County)
This is a 100% single variety with tropical flavours, some citrus/floral notes on both nose and palate.. Immediately appealing to the senses with an accent on vanilla spice. The wine is made up partially
of wines grown locally and from vines grown elsewhere in Loudoun County.
I do prefer the above as both an aperitif and meal wine.
Chardonnay 2013 (Loudoun Couty)
A 100% Chardonnay with apple/pear/peach on the nose and ripe apple, citrus mix and tropical/vanilla on palate. Citrus taste carries through to finish. Vines are not estate grown but all from Loudoun County appellation.
Cabernet Franc 2012 (Virginia)
While a single variety on "paper", the wine contains 2.5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Nice raspberry/cherry on nose with currant nuances. Touch of mint in the background and pepper on the nose. Red fruit with medium body on the palate. Pleasant finish with a recurrence of the mint. Vines are not estate grown.
Merlot (Loudoun County) 2012
Another "single" variety with a touch of other wine available. 95% Merlot versus 5% Cabernet Sauvingon. The vines are not estate grown but are Loudoun appellation. On the nose there is black fruit of some ripeness, tobacco smoke plus cassis with a touch of pepper. On the palate the wine is medium to full in body, similar fruit as nose. Smoke permeates the lower "back of throat" nasal after swallowing and there is a lingering oak on the finish.
Meritage (Loudoun County) 2012
This wine is definitely a blend similar to that of the Bordeaux style. 50% Cabernet Sauvingnon, 30% Merlot, 15% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc. This Meritage had a nose full of berries and currants but also it exhibited mint, coffee and chocolate nuances which were repeated on the palate. The wine was medium to full bodied with a lingering finish. Once more the appellation here was Loudoun although none of the wine was produced by the estate.
Petit Verdot (Loudoun County) 2012
This wine was produced entirely from grapes cultivated at the winery by the winemakers and staff.
The wine had cedar/tobacco smoke and floral on the nose. Medium bodied with blackberry/raspberry notes plus tobacco/smoke and plum on the palate. The wine was definitely on the verge and attracted a small following prior to our visit ending.
Apple Wine 2012
Fresh, clean and luscious juice was my first thought when I tasted the apple wine. A nice pleasant drink that, when appropriately cold, would be perfect for a warm, steamy summer night.
North Gate was a very inspiring winery to visit and basically started our journey in a most excellent manner. The group of wine writers from the USA, Britain and Canada were now anticipating what was around the next corner! Our next stop, Breaux!
Breaux Vineyards
36888 Vineyards Lane
Purceville, Virginia 20132
540-668-6299
info@breauxvineyards.com
If great wine was synonymous with fine scenery, then the wines of Breaux would be classed as the best anywhere. The scenery one encountered as the bus dusted its way down the winery driveway towards a dining area was one of the best that I had seen anywhere with a plethora of multicolored flower bushes surrounding the landscaped perimeters of the winery.
We were met by Jennifer Breaux Blosser, daughter to Breaux's President and CEO, E. Paul Breaux Junior. She had set up a luncheon for the group-----matching Breaux's fine wine to the meal. First she described a bit about the winery's history and philosophy.
Apparently Breaux started its life as a log cabin circa 1750. What was a hobby turned into a serious winery which eventually reached a capacity of some 50,000 gallons with a current 10,000 case capacity. Presently the winery is undergoing expansion.
Jennifer took over the day to day operations from her father several years ago and is now the Director of Sales and Hospitality.
Jennifer also introduced us to winemaker Heather Munden, U of Davis graduate who acquired a great reputation as a wine consultant for wineries in Italy, Australia, Chile,New Zealand and California. Heather explained the philosophy behind the Breaux wine making.
The Wine
Sauvignon Blanc (2013)
On the nose the wine had herbal spice, green apple and citrus lime. On the palate it was medium bodied, green apple, peach and vegetal flavour. Nice acidity led to a crisp, dry finish.
Cabernet Sauvignon (2010)
On the nose this wine expressed red fruit, anise, clove spice. On the palate it was full bodied with some red/black fruit flavours especially cherry along with a touch of black pepper. Oak was slightly present and the finish lengthy.
Meritage (2007)
Nose expressed chocolate, coffee, dark fruit with some mint.The wine palate was full bodied with ripe dark fruit, oak, pepper. Long in finish.
Cabernet Franc Reserve (2007)
Highly concentrated with concentrated dark fruit, liquorice/anise, tobacco smoke, walnuts on both nose and palate. Palate was also full in body. Very powerful and lengthy finish.
Soleil (2006)
Nose has full of lychee, honey, melon pear, ripe fig and citrus flavours with a palate of jam, lychee, honey, apricot, peach and fig flavours.
The Meal
The group was also treated with a lovely lunch provided by Bluewater Kitchen, a first class catering company, matched with three other Breaux wines.
First Course
Roasted Chilly Hollow Farm Squash & Spice with Spring Farm Bacon
Accompanying Wine: Viognier (2013)
Nose: floral, melon, tropical fruit and tropical spice. Palate was medium, concentrated, some toastiness with smoke, white fruit, citrus and pebbles on the finish.
Second Course
Coq Au Vin with Braised spring farm chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, fall vegetables, oyster mushrooms.
Accompanying wine: Nebbiolo (2006)
Nose: cherry, fig, licorice, smoke with a palate of red fruit, chocolate/coffee. Forward tannins and very pleasant mouth feel.
Dessert
Challah and Brioche Bread Pudding with raisins, honey crisp apples, bourbon creme Anglaise.
Accompanying Wine: Lineage
Nose: Port like made using the Solera system! Coffee, ground nuts, chocolate, plum, dark plums and a soft, delicate finish.
The wine and meal went very well and every wine was an excellent example of a wine/food match. Our next destination was to Fabbioli Cellars in Leesburg.
Fabbioli Cellars
Owner University of California Davis educagted Doug Fabbioli acquired his skill as a wine maker through his employ at such vineyards as Buena Vista in California, Tarara, Windham and a number of other wineries in Virginia. His experience in working with such renowned wine makers as Andre Tchelicheff and Anne Moller-Racke (who is now President and Winegrower of Donum Estate in California) enabled him to move forward with his plans for making first class wine in Virginia.
In 2000 along with his wife, Colleen, he purchased 25 acres of land near Leesburg, Virginia planting Merlot and Petit Verdot in 2001.
On our first meeting, he reminded me of the former wrestler Jessie Ventura in his enthusiastic speech and passion for wine. He immediately stuck me as being an innovator and leader----definitely not a follower. His commanding voice and "western-edge" in his demeanor communicated his style and determination. No wonder this guy was/is a success.
His philosophy of wine circulates around education and the environment with the end result being a saving that is passed on to the consumer but eventually allowing the winery to make a profit. Organic or sustainable agriculture is the key which allows a balance between the growing of the vines and producing excellent crops/wine and allowing nature to rule rather than using artificial methods to secure a successful product. Nothing is left for chance. Vines are carefully monitored. The soil is naturally replenished. Geothermal units are used for hot water production and climate control. Natural pesticides and fungicides are used. Education and updating for staff is a priority.
The result is a superior product of Bordeaux style wine that any winery would be proud of.
The Tasting
Wine: Something White
A blend of Viognier, Vidal, Chardonnay was paired with Cream Cheese and Pumpkin Spread on Crackers.
Wine: Chambourcin
Light and spicy red with with an earthy/dark fruit flavour matched with stuffing.
Wine: Cabernet Franc Reserve
Medium to full bodied wine with red and dark fruit, pepper and oak flavours matched with Peppered Turkey.
Wine: Tre Soreille
A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc in descending order of percentage. Red fruit and floral on nose and red fruit on the palate. Matched with Wensieydale Cranberry Cheese.
Wine: Zinfandel
Rich and jammy red fruit on nose with dark fruit, figs, anise spice on palate matched with Dried Pomegranate/Brie on Crackers.
Wine: Raspberry Merlot
Medium sweet Raspberry/Merlot blend. Fruit, cinnamon spice and wood matched with Raspberry/Merlot Truffles.
Wine:Pear Port
A sweet Port style wine matched with Pumpkin Fudge.
The wines at Fabbioli showed what talent and passion could do if applied well. However we still had one more winery to view on our second day in Virginia and that was Tarara!
Tarara Winery
The historic and beautiful surroundings of the Potomac River is the site of 475 acres devoted to Tarara Winery's vines. Here owners Whitie and Margaret Hubert set up shop in 1985 with the intent of developing first class vines and wines. Starting with Chardonnay, they moved on to Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot,
We were welcomed to the winery by the winemaker/general manager, Jordan Harris. Jordan is Canadian and was educated at Niagara College in St. Catherine's Ontario. He was a top sommelier taster placing first in a National Sommelier Competition and also place third in the World in a similar contest.
Jordan was very gregarious and friendly as he discussed his wines and philosophy of wine making. He believes that "less is more" which basically means that the less you tamper with a wine and make wine that you like to drink, you will get a far better product. He prefers his white wines to show "delicacy, complexity and density" with good "mouth feel". As for his reds, The reds are vinified to produce greatest extraction of ripe fruit. The cap is gently managed via a system of gentle bubbles versus heavy punch downs. Punch down in certain lots is done by hand.
The reds are aimed to be complex and balanced with little or no fining/filtration. This allows for greater development and longevity.
White Wine
Charval:
Blend of Chardonnay, Rkatsiteli (Georgian ancient white grape), Sauvignon Blanc, Petit Manseng.
Has good acidity, citrus lemon, pineapple, herbal/grass.
Navaeh:
A Chardonnay/Viognier blend with floral notes on both nose and palate. Tropical fruit and citrus with great concentration.
Chardonnay:
Citrus orange/apple pie/tropical fruit on nose with pleasant acid freshness on the mouth palate. Nice wine that shows promise for future development.
Red Wine
Tranquility:
Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon/Tannat with black fruit, cedar wood, blackberry and cassis on nose and palate with a rich concentration of tannin with subtle smoke and currant. Great ager!
Navaeh (Red):
A Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon blend with red and black fruit namely blackberry/plum on nose. Palate is similar with a great deal of ripe fruit flavours and smoke on the finish.
Meritage:
Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon blend. Dark and red fruits with plum concentration and cedar wood. Palate is similar with ripe forward tannins and blackberry flavours. Chocolate underscores the fruit flavours with a nice smokey/vanilla finish.
Once again the wines proved to be inspiring to say the least. The thing to keep in mind here is that the all with wines from all the wineries tasted so far revealed a penchant for food pairing.
This was the last winery of the day but the fun was not over yet since a grand dinner awaited us at the great Salamander Resort where we were staying.
It was a nice way to end a long day. A five course dinner with matching wine at the Salamander Resort. We watched the group of chefs prepare a sumptuous meal that culminated in one of the nicest feasts that ever existed. The wine and food matches were amazing and the fabulous fillet mignon was one of the best I ever tasted. The dessert---a Creme Brulee---was sumptuous and though I am not usually a dessert person, I finished it to the very last spoon. One of my colleagues actually commented that it was the first dessert that she saw me eat totally. The end to a perfect and very busy day.
End of Day Two.
posted by Chuck Byers - Wine Consultant | 7:09 PM
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