Washington, D.C. Travel Guide

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Virginia on the Vine

Yes, the wine is that good. Now more than ever, a trip to this state’s wine country includes fun for everyone.

Charles Walton IV, By Scott Jones, Warner McGowin

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A Quick Tasting Guide

We think two grapes in particular stand out here: Viognier (a full-bodied white traditionally grown in the France’s Rhône Valley) and Cabernet Franc (a medium-bodied red traditionally used as a blending grape in France’s Bordeaux region). You’ll also find terrific examples of everything from Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio to Cabernet Sauvignon and Nebbiolo (and all sorts of delicious, food-friendly blends in between).

Blend It Like Bordeaux: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot--classic grapes from the Bordeaux region of France--are probably the most recognizable red wine-producing grapes in the state. In fact, if you see the word “Meritage” (which is a legal designation rhyming with “heritage”) on the label, you’ll find a combo of these grapes inside. Definitely Drink: 2006 King Family Meritage, 2006 Jefferson Meritage, 2006 La Grange Meritage, or 2006 Rappahannock Cellars 2nd Bottling Meritage.

Hometown Hero: Virginia’s own Norton grape produces a hearty, Zinfandel-esque red that shouldn’t be missed. Definitely Drink: 2004 Horton Cellars Norton or 2006 Chrysalis Vineyard Barrel Select Norton.