by Richard Leahy | Apr 13, 2022 | Tastings/Evaluations, Virginia Wine
The 2010 vintage was very good overall, especially for late-ripening varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon. A rare varietal label in the Monticello AVA, Keswick Vineyards has consistently made some of the best varietal Cab. Sauvs in Virginia. When you have an estate...
by Richard Leahy | Mar 29, 2022 | Competitions, News/Announcements, Virginia Wine
March 24, Richmond, VA (from the official press release by the Virginia Wine Marketing Office) – During the annual celebration held at Main Street Station, Governor Glenn Youngkin awarded the 2022 Virginia Governor’s Cup® to Cana Vineyards & Winery of Middleburg...
by Richard Leahy | Feb 23, 2022 | Tastings/Evaluations, Virginia Wine, Wine of the Week
The small Bozzo Family Vineyards on Rt. 9 in northern Loudoun County made an impressive debut on the Virginia wine scene when their 2016 “Second Act” (Meritage-style blend) won a gold medal with their first release. Since then, I’ve kept my eye on...
by Richard Leahy | Feb 13, 2022 | Virginia Wine
If you’re looking for a “wine for a winter’s night” (and these days, who isn’t?), when you’re grilling filet mignon or other steak to go with it, I have to recommend Afton Mountain’s “Tradition” 2017, a...
by Richard Leahy | Feb 6, 2022 | Tastings/Evaluations, Virginia Wine, Winery Review
Twice in 2021 I wrote with enthusiasm about the new Virginia red wines of what has emerged to be a great 2019 vintage, for me the best since 2001. Recently I had the opportunity to view the 2019 vintage through the lens of the dry red wines of DuCard Vineyards,...
by Richard Leahy | Jan 21, 2022 | Tastings/Evaluations, Virginia Wine
This is probably the most elegant, Meritage-style varietal Tannat from anywhere that I’ve had. It won a gold medal in the 2018 Governor’s Cup and a silver in the 2017 event. Post-fermentation, the wine underwent extended maceration (on the skins) for 17...
