The Other 46

Don’t be fooled by the unassuming entrance to Chester Gap Cellars.  In fact, if you don’t pay close attention, you may miss some of the best views and wines the state has to offer.  Located just off route 522 (literally), Chester Gap sits at over 1000 feet elevation at the northern tip of Rappahannock County, Virginia. [...]

Over the holidays, I tasted a number of wines from the other 46 states, with a Bordeaux-style blend leaving a lasting impression.  The wine, the Yonah Mountain Vineyards 2006 Genesis, is produced by Yonah Mountain Vineyards.  I’ve written about their wines a number of times (read more here), and each time I come away more impressed. [...]

Partners Maynard James Keenan and Eric Glomski produce a number of wines from 100% Arizona fruit under their Arizona Stronghold Vineyard label.  Well-priced and widely distributed for local wines, the ASV portfolio of wines are a great introduction to the Grand Canyon State. A Rhone blend, the Arizona Stronghold Vineyards 2009 Nachise is made up [...]

Staying true to my home state and my drink local motto, I recently pulled the cork on a local wine not far from my home base in Orlando.  Located in Plant City, Florida, Keel & Curley Winery was started in the spring of 2003 by founder and owner, Joe Keel.  A blueberry farmer, Keel decided to try [...]

After the classic vintage of 2007, Virginia turned in a typical, if not uneventful vintage in 2008.  In a state where quality can vary greatly, I usually turn to winemakers who consistently produce excellent wines no matter the vintage.  This is never more evident with Jeff White, Owner and Winemaker of Glen Manor Vineyards. The [...]

Blind tastings don’t lie.  It’s an opportunity for the underdog to shine, especially in the case of local wine. Usually not given a fighting chance, especially by the mainstream media, a blind tasting removes the regional and label prejudices.  So when I read Yonah Mountain Vineyards eked out a victory against the mighty Kistler in a controlled [...]

I’m often forced to make difficult decisions when it comes to planning my Virginia itinerary.  With 200 plus wineries throughout the state, and that number growing each month, it’s a painful selection process. That said I always include the “classics” and make an effort to visit a new and upcoming winery. Since their opening in [...]