Virginia Wine: The Basics

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Virginia may not be your first thought when thinking of US wine but it’s certainly worthy of your consideration. Virginia boasts a wine history dating back to at least 1608. Early European settlers noted that Virginia was an ideal wine producing zone making comparisons to famous Old World vineyard sites. In fact a 3,000 sq mile rural zone noted for its rolling hills and mountain streams was named Piedmont taking its name from the great wine region in Northwest Italy. Today, Virginia ranks 5th in the growth of Vinifera grapes (Grapes of European origin considered to be best for wine production. Examples include: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and many others.) Virginia had fewer than ten wineries in 1980 but now boasts more than 100 and growing.

Presently, Virginia wines are typically available only in their home state. However, this is sure to change as the wines of Virginia gain notoriety with awards in international competitions. If you live outside of the US Mid-Atlantic region it is unlikely that you have had the opportunity to experience Virginia wines. Don’t wait for these wines to become popular throughout the US, get ahead of the crowd.