Virgina wines are produced from grapes grown in the state of Virginia. Winemaking in Virginia has been around since the early days of European colonization. Some popular varieties include Riesling, Viognier, and Cabernet Franc. These wines are made with the highest quality grapes grown in Virginia. There are also some unique varieties, such as Petit Manseng.
Viognier
Virginia Viognier is an aromatic wine with tropical and stone fruit flavors. The fruit is complemented by floral and spicy notes from oak aging and the wine is often accompanied by a light bitter note. The fruity wine pairs well with seafood, salads and other light dishes. It is also versatile and can be served with a wide variety of foods.
The grape is known for its loose bunches and thick skin. The best examples have a refreshing and floral aroma. In Virginia, a variety of Viognier grapes are grown, and one of the most prominent is the Condrieu. The grape is planted on steep granite slopes near the Rhone River.
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc is one of the most popular red grapes grown in Virginia, and it is among the most widely planted. While Viognier and Petit Manseng have made waves in the wine industry recently, Cabernet Franc has long been a reliable performer for Virginia winemakers. In fact, it was Virginia wine pioneer Dennis Horton who first planted Cabernet Franc vines back in 1990.
Cabernet Franc is a cool-climate grape, and is particularly suited to Virginia’s inland climate. The grape was not even known to Thomas Jefferson, even though Robert Parker extolled it as one of the best wines in the world. It didn’t make it to Virginia until the late 1970s, when viticulture began to replace American hybrids. Until then, Norton grapes were the mainstay of Virginia’s wine industry.
Petit Manseng
If you’re looking for a wine with a distinctive flavor, you’ve probably heard of Petit Manseng. This grape is a white variation of the black Manseng grape, which has a rich, berry-like flavor. Its flavor is also sweet and reminiscent of candied fruit, and it pairs well with Asian dishes.
This grape is cultivated in high-humidity climates. Its small berries form loose clusters that resist rot and maintain a sweet, fruity flavor. It has a thick skin that makes it a good candidate for winemaking. It also has enough acidity to balance the sweetness.
Riesling
Virgina Riesling is a sweet, aromatic wine with citrus and lime aromas. Its palate is bright and clean, and the finish is clean and crisp. Virgina Riesling pairs well with seafood and many different types of cuisine. This versatile wine is available in a variety of styles and can be enjoyed with food from seafood to Chinese cuisine.
Virginia’s climate is ideal for growing a wide variety of grapes. In addition to German and French varietals, the region also grows grapes from Italy and Spain. Riesling, however, is less common in Virginia, which makes it difficult to find. In addition to Virginia, the Riesling grape is also grown in Oregon, California’s Central Coast, and Australia.
Horton Norton
Horton Norton Virginia wines are made using grapes native to the region. These grapes are known for their full flavored characteristics and low tannin. They have big fruit flavors when they’re young, but also have the capacity to age and develop complex flavors. They often feature concentrated flavors of black berries and cherries, with earthy notes and accents of vanilla and chocolate. When they’re older, they show less fruit character, but do have hints of spice and oak.
The Norton grape was first developed in the 1820s and soon became one of the mainstays of American wine. However, after Prohibition, the grape suffered and languished. In the 1960s, Horton brought back vine cuttings from Stone Hill Winery and resurrected the vineyards. Since then, Norton has become an icon for Virginia wine.