“Cool Local Whites for a Hot Summer” tasting, with author and Richard Leahy signing and selling copies of his book Beyond Jefferson’s Vines: the Evolution of Quality Wine in Virginia (3rd ed. 2020) takes place at the Wine Guild in Charlottesville, 600 Concord Ave., Charlottesville VA 22902.
Now that a hot, humid summer is here, be sure to stop by and stock up on some choice white wines from the Monticello (and nearby) American Viticultural Area, curated by Guild member and Virginia wine author Rich Leahy. The eclectic mix includes three whites, a rose and, for balance, an outstanding red Meritage-style blend.
- Daring Wine Co. Chardonnay: Have you been searching for a “Goldilocks” Chardonnay that’s not too lean, not too rich, but “just right?” Well, this is it! Fresh, elegant, with a hint of fleshiness but not heavy.
- Barboursville Vermentino: Stylish, with aromas and hints of Meyer lemon pith, a fine food wine with Mediterranean cuisine. If this grape were a sports car, it would be a Lamborghini!
- Lovingston Seyval Blanc: Racy, flinty, with pink grapefruit aromas and flavors, bursting with fresh citrus acidity and a long clean finish.
- Veritas Vineyards & Winery Rose: “rose petal” is the color, from Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes both gently processed for a light pink color, fresh, vibrant aromas and flavors of bright red fruits, dry with a clean finish.
- Hark Spark 2019: The outstanding 2019 vintage was fruit-forward and juicy, and it was hard to find a bad red that year. Imagine how good the wines are that placed in the Governor’s Case are (the top twelve gold medals in the Virginia Governor’s Cup Competition); well, this is one! The blend is 46% Cabernet Franc, 30% Merlot, 24% Petit Verdot. This is a good time to taste and buy; it will be gone when the weather turns cool again!
This is also an opportunity to meet Richard, learn more about Virginia wine and purchase autographed copies of his book. Beyond Jefferson’s Vines covers over 400 years of history but focuses on the last 24 years, and explains how Virginia has become a world-class wine region. Foreword by Steven Spurrier of the movie Bottle Shock fame. Rich will be signing and selling copies of the book, just in time for Father’s Day ($19.99).