Congratulations to Barboursville for winning the Governors Cup in the most recent competition for its Octagon 2009. Octagon is a Meritage-style blend with 70% merlot in this vintage 15% Cabernet Franc, 10% Petit Verdot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Gold Medal winners are:

Cooper Vineyards – 2010 Petit Verdot Reserve
King Family Vineyards – 2010 Meritage
Lovingston Winery – 2009 Josie’s Knoll Estate Reserve (Meritage)
Philip Carter Winery – 2010 Cleve (Petite Verdot, Tannat)
Pollak Vineyards – 2009 Cabernet Franc Reserve
Potomac Point Vineyard and Winery – 2010 Richland Reserve Heritage (Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat, Petit Verdot)
Rappahannock Cellars – 2010 Meritage
RdV Vineyards – 2010 Rendevous (Meritage)
RdV Vineyards – 2010 Lost Mountain (Meritage)
Sunset Hills Vineyard – 2010 Mosaic (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot)
Trump Winery – 2008 Sparkling Rose (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir)

I'm a bit annoyed, however, that not a single Viognier managed to snag a Gold medal. Allegedly the grape that is going to propel Virginia in to widespread acceptance, it is hard for me to believe that the esteemed panel of judges didn't find a single one that rated. In fact, the only white on this list is a sparkling from Trump Winery, formerly Kluge. I am not impressed. A few years back the Association awarded reds and whites separately, presumably for this exact problem. I hope Virginia Viogniers will get the attention that I believe they deserve.

Barboursville is an anchor winery in the Central Virginia region. Owned by the Zonin family, who own and operate wineries in Italy, the visitor experience and wines at Barboursville are consistently strong. They range from easily approachabled to very serious dry wines, predominantly. An added bonus, check out the ruins of Gov. James Barbour's home on site, enjoy a fantastic meal at Palladio, and stay overnight at the 1804 Inn!

My Favorite White: Pinot Grigio
My Favorite Red: Octagon

http://www.barboursvillewine.net

17655 Winery Rd, Barboursville, VA
(540) 832-3824

One of the very first wineries I ever visited was Horton. Located on Route 33 in Gordonsville, this is a great winery for both newcomers and seasoned drinkers. They offer over 30 wines on their list, sweet and fun, to dry and serious. The tasting room is huge and the pourers are very knowledgable, so let them help guide you. Particularly if you are traveling in a group that has many people with a diverse range of experiences and pallets, this is the perfect winery to include on your itinerary. As usual, make sure to call ahead if you are traveling with more than 6 people in your group.

My Favorite White: Viognier
My Favorite Red: Cabernet Franc

www.hortonwine.com

6399 Spotswood Trail, Gordonsville, VA
(540) 832-7440