Overview: Virginia wine expert Tracy Waldron identifies three grape varieties that winemakers are using to craft excellent bottles in the Commonwealth. This selection highlights the region’s versatility during October, which marks Virginia Wine Month.
The Full Story
Winemakers are crafting excellent bottles with these three types of grapes according to Virginia wine expert Tracy Waldron. As you map out the vineyards you want to explore this month, consider three grape varieties that excel in producing quality wines in Virginia. October is Virginia Wine Month and an opportunity to showcase what the commonwealth’s winemakers do particularly well.
Production & Profile
Cabernet Franc offers a wide array of styles depending on the vineyard location. You’ll find elegant red fruit and floral notes with soft tannic structure in some, or dark berry fruit and black tea with a robust, velvety tannic backbone in others. Petit Manseng boasts an intensely exotic perfume with naturally high acidity levels. It is primarily crafted into dry wines with ripe peach and cinnamon aromas, and rich, full-bodied texture that allows it to stand up to robust dishes at the dinner table. Some wineries are experimenting with oak maturation to add even more complexity of dried fruit, vanilla, and spice.
Albariño retains bright, refreshing acidity that makes it an excellent pairing partner for cheeses and seafood. It is highly aromatic, with grapefruit, apricot, honeysuckle, and stony mineral notes that will stand out at aperitivo hour or when entertaining at home.
Brand & Industry History
Cabernet Franc is indigenous to the Spanish Basque region, rose to fame in France, and is now the most planted grape in Virginia. Petit Manseng is indigenous to the French Pyrenees, best known as part of the blend for the sweet white wines of Jurançon, with its early use in Virginia echoing that style. Albariño is native to the damp Atlantic coast of northwest Spain, creating a foothold in Virginia vineyards thanks in part to climate similarities.
What This Means
These varieties showcase what the commonwealth’s winemakers do particularly well during October. The region offers an opportunity to explore these grapes that excel in producing quality wines in Virginia.
Consumer Takeaway
Purchase from multiple wineries and host your own comparative tasting at home to see Cabernet Franc’s versatility. Recommended makers include Valley Road Vineyards Reserve and CrossKeys Vineyards for the red varietal. Early Mountain Vineyards and Williamsburg Winery Barrel Reserve offer Petit Manseng options. Good Spirit Farm and Fifty-Third Winery provide Albariño selections.
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