I live near DC and frequently go out to wineries, partially in support of helping to develop better wine. I agree that many of the reds are not as full bodied as one can find in the West (cab franc can be delightful, but I would appreciate advice from those who have found depth). The whites are making their way, especially viognier. Chester Gap's Reserve may be one of the best. I agree with James M. that Linden (Jim Law) does the best with winemaking, given the juice. The Avenius Sauv blanc is often crisp and grapefruity and my older reds are drinking quite nicely.

But Dinwiddie also hits the spot in terms of a nice weekend (short of Provence) when you can sit down overlooking great valley views (Linden, Oasis, Fox Meadows), nibbling on artisanal cheeses and summer sausage, and sip some interesting juice. Of course, you may have to ride through beautiful horse country, view historical mansions, or visit old taverns or caverns along the way.

I also disagree (together with, bit not at Lentini) that desert wines here aren't worth looking at. Pearmund is trying to make a Solera sherry and at least they don't freeze their grapes to make icewein. Some of the local bloggers [http://davewine.blogspot.com/] offer better support.

g-man: my Syrah is resting quietly in barrel, so not much to report on until it's racked in the coming weeks, when I'll taste it again...

How are all those Virginia wines tasting?

We did Barboursville today.. and J enjoyed the Sangiovese, said it did not taste like dirt.. .. Cab Franc was +/-... Enjoyed the "Octagon" (Bordeaux Blend) and the Nebbiolo too.. Don't tell LP ... Both well over 30.00 Inbetween the tourist stuff might do another tasting manana.. Beautiful coutryside.. Humidity is kicking our butts.

cheers

quote:

Originally posted by James Molesworth:
g-man: my Syrah is resting quietly in barrel, so not much to report on until it's racked in the coming weeks, when I'll taste it again...

James- I have just committed to a barrel for 2008 with a group of friends. Any tips, things to look for or avoid? Would you do it again? I find myself compulsively worrying about how the weird Cali weather is affecting the Russian River this year...

Happy CSW: To avoid thread drift, I responded to you here.