Tasting Virginia Wines

An Exploration of Virginia Vineyards and Wineries

This year's wine tasting was held July 17, 5:30-7:30 pm in the Art Speaks Gallery and was an introduction and for some a re-introduction to wines from four distinct regions within the state of Virginia. The wineries who participated in the tasting were:

The tasting began with a brief history of the Virginia wine industry throughout the Commonwealth and was presented by John Salatino.  Topics explored included:

• Environmental advantages of each area (climate, soil, growing season, etc.)
• Types of grapes in each region (native and imported) and the wine varietals
• Current status of the vineyards (numbers, ages, historical growth, projections, venues, etc.)

Raffle winners were:

Hampton Roads/Chesapeake Region Collection - Marsha Morgan

• Two-night stay at the Vineyard View apartment at General's Ridge Vineyard  
• Bottle of 2023 Cabernet Franc from General's Ridge Vineyard 
• Gift Card for Saudé Creek Vineyard

Northern Virginia Collection - Jameliah Penfield

• Gift certificate from 8 Chains North for a Vineyard Picnic for two in Waterford, VA 
• Bottle of 2024 Fly Leatherneck Sparkling Rose from General's Ridge 
• Gift card from Magnolia at the Mill restaurant in Purcellville, VA
• Gift card for Monk's BBQ (whiskey and tequila bar)

Middleburg/Central Virginia Collection - Janet Dehoux

• Gift card for King Street Oyster Bar and Restaurant in Middleburg
• Gift card for Doukénie Winery
• Bottle of Boxwood Winery Red Fox Blend red wine from Red Fox Inn and Tavern 
• Bottle of 2016 General's Reserve Gold Medal at Governor's Cup from GRV 
• Two hand-made pottery goblets build and donated by Katy Ridnouer
• Virginia Wine Board Marketing Office Tote Bag

The Cheese Shop Gift Basket - Susan Murdoch

• Gift basket from The Cheese Shop in Williamsburg
• Bottle of 2016 Petit Verdot from General's Ridge
• Bottle of Good Luck Cellars Rip Rap Rose
• Gift card for Saudé Creek Vineyard

Check out the pictures!