My "Fieldtrip" to Local Vineyards

The past few weeks I have fortunately been able to experience what it is like on the other side of the bar. A few years ago I had frequented the local wineries A LOT (but I won't say how much, that can stay my secret) Because of work, kids, life, etc. I had let my hobby go by the wayside...but not anymore. I was able to go to some wineries in Loudoun, Fauquier & even Prince William. What a eye opening experience to be able to see what other wineries are doing. Virginia is really upping its game for experience, variety, knowledge & scenery. I was very pleased with the service I got at most places but I will say that some could rethink their customer service. I was disappointed in one "unnamed" place as I had set my itinerary of daily wineries around this one in particular which I felt did not deliver. All in all, though, who can complain all that much when going to wineries. The nice thing about Virginia wineries is that you get a laid back yet informed ambiance. I feel very lucky to have all of this low key culture around me to satisfy my hobby.

Sommelier Class 9/28

Well, I had my first Sommelier class 6 days ago and I am still amazed by the enlightenment. It's amazing what 8 wine loving people in one room will do in a wine learning/tasting experience. The 6.5 hour evening (5 PM - 11:30 PM) covered a lot of information starting from the history of wine to viticulture (the growing of grapes) to viniculture (the making of wine) to the nuances of Sauvignon Blanc & Chardonnay. Yes, A LOT of information to process but fortunately was presented by an EXCELLENT instuctor of the International Sommelier Guild. I'll have to get use to the "swishing & spitting" so that I can be a responsible NOVA driver. Maybe I will look into asking the company of Girls Night Out to take me to and from my class each week :)

Harvest

What a week this has been. The Chardonnay and Viognier have been picked and processed.
The chardonnay came from Jack and Cindy Lowther vineyard in Purcellville, the fruit was excellent and we are looking forward to creating a wonderful wine from it. If you are interested in learning more about their vineyard, please visit our website and click on Vineyards.

Our chiller broke during the chardonnay fermentation, but Sunset Hills Vineyard http://www.sunsethillsvineyard.com/ had an extra one on hand we could borrow and that saved our Chardonnay. If you have not been by Sunset Hills, I highly recommend it. Mike and Diane have done a beautiful job in restoring the old barn and the wines are fantastic.