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Virginia is known to make several varietals very well: Viognier and Cabernet Franc usually dominate Virginian wineries' tasting lists; but one local varietal, which is gaining acclaim nationally and internationally is Norton. It's known as the Virginia grape, and it's becoming popular because of its soft tannins, sweeter hints of cinnamon and other herbs and the fact that it goes well with the lighter side of meats and poultry. It also goes very well with a mild cigar. It's a good sipping wine by itself, which I recommend it be served at a cool 50, but no warmer than 60 degrees. Of all the wines I've tasted in Virginia, this varietal stands out because it's so different from the typical noble grapes that make up Virginian meritages, or the stand-alone favorites of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. Castle Gruen is pretty new in Virginia, but they've mastered Norton. Quick note: I couldn't add the Norton varietal for this wine because it's not a choice for "varietal," but no worries. $18 1 Note
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"Hidden" in the upper reaches of Virginia near the West Virginia border, this small lot winery produces, in my mind, one of the best Chambourcins I've tasted in the state... and I've tasted a lot of them. What they do differently, which I believe helps this Virginia staple varietal, is the blending of Petit Verdot (20%). It gives it body, structure, and nice, silky tannins. This Chambourcin exhibits an inky, garnet color with notes of plum and cinnamon on the nose and flavored with cinnamon, earth, and black pepper. It is well worth the $22 and can seriously hold its own against its varietal competitors in Virginia and beyond.
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A quaffable Chardonnay, which has a pleasant green apple aroma and a nice golden hue. Initially, the green apples hit you, but it moves on to butterscotch quickly, and then some buttery notes on the finish. It is crisp, but I think a little too acidic and somewhat sweeter than it should be. Chardonnay normally does well in Virginia, but then it's up to the wine maker. I've had some very good to excellent Chard in Virginia (both oaked and unoaked), but this doesn't fit the bill. $15
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Classic Viognier aromas and flavors exhibit peach, apricot and honey. The first taste brought forth a rich and smooth feel to this medium-bodied white, with nice, bright acidity. It’s a classic example of Virginia-made Viognier, and it was a great wine to have on Delaplane Cellars’ deck overlooking the surrounding Piedmont. There’s just enough sweetness to this varietal to pair with some spicy foods, but I think it would go well with a nice, light salad. Well-recommended; $22.
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Three Fox Vineyards Pinot Grigio - 2007
