Just a short drive from Breaux Vineyards is a perennial favorite of mine, Doukénie Winery. I’ve previously written about Doukénie in the past (see my earlier post and review) and always pencil them in when visiting Northern Virginia, especially when on the Loudoun Wine Trail. Winemaker and Vineyard Manager, Sebastien Marquette, produces some of the best wines in Virginia. Located in historic Hillsboro, VA, Doukénie is a 500-acre farm, with 12-acres under vine producing everything from Cabernet Franc to the newly bottled Pinot Grigio.
We visited on a Wednesday prior to the 4th of July weekend. Surprisingly, the tasting room was quiet. We were warmly greeted by Lucy the Lab and owner Nicki Bazaco. We sampled 15 wines, including 3 for Heritage Club members only.
My highlights for the whites included the new ’08 Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay. The Pinot Grigio is a crisp white wine with aromas of melon, citrus, and honey. I could see this pairing well with seafood (think Maryland crab cakes). For a nice balance between oak and creaminess, the Chardonnay is a winner. The Pinot Grigio is only available to club members for $20 while the Chard is available for $21.
I’ve always been a big fan of Doukénie’s reds, which is one of the primary reasons I joined the Heritage Club during my visit. The ’07 growing year was stellar in Virginia resulting in beautiful reds. My many favorites on the list included the ’07 Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Sangiovese (available only to club members). The ’06 Vintner’s Reserve, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and a splash of Petit Verdot is outstanding. My wine of the day, besides my all time favorite Hope’s Legacy Raspberry (see my earlier review), was the ’07 Cabernet Sauvignon. Produced from 25-year old vines, the wine explodes with cherry, black pepper, and spice. A nice balance of tannin and oak, I believe this wine will provide drinking pleasure for several years.
After our tasting, we enjoyed the unseasonably cool summer weather with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon and Hope’s Legacy Raspberry. Overlooking the vines, horses, and a picturesque pond, Doukénie Winery provided the perfect setting. Next time you’re on the Loudoun Wine Trail, be sure to visit Doukénie and tell them The Other 46 sent you!
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