New Zealand: Sampling the New World Glass by Glass

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The first thing you notice is how it looks in the glass. New Zealand wine glows and exhibits a pure smell and taste, from the omnipresent Sauvignon Blanc to the up-and-coming Pinot Gris, unoaked Chardonnay and Reisling. This purity extends to reds too – Pinot Noir from New Zealand has taken off in the last… read more »

A Look at WINE Raise a Glass to a Good Cause

Wine

The wine industry is no stranger to cause marketing. Winemakers frequently donate their time and products to benefit charities.  However, even if you can’t afford tickets to a fancy philanthropic event this summer, you can still drink to support worthy causes from fighting cancer to supporting service dogs. Veteran vintner David Georges knew that his… read more »

Winemakers, Chefs and Growers Unite

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Winemakers, farmers and chefs will come together this month to showcase the best of what is raised, crushed, distilled and harvested in Virginia’s Loudoun County. More than 20 restaurants from Middleburg to Lovettsville will add unique menus from July 21-31 that showcase at least 70% of their ingredients from local sources as part of Farm-to-Fork… read more »

On The Vine: Hold the Ice

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Summer Wines Fit for Scorchers+ JUNE 2011 ISSUE – I have a problem with people who put junky wine over ice when it’s hot outside and argue that it somehow improves the flavor. My friends, plonk is plonk. Super chilling it is not going to make it any better. It’s just going to numb your… read more »

Music and Merlot: Summer at the Vineyards

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May 2011 ISSUE – Music and wine have proven to be a perfect combination in the summer months, and there are now opportunities every weekend to mix the two, ranging from festivals with multiple bands to more intimate tasting room events. Here are a few of our favorites, check the festival guide for even more:… read more »

Youth Revolution in the Virginia Vines

Emily Pelton amoung the vines at Veritas.  Photo by Zack Looney.

The rapid growth in Virginia’s wine region has caught the attention of a number of winemaking professionals in their 20s and 30s. New wineries are opening each year, and with them, many doors for new talent eager to learn from seasoned professionals and explore new techniques in a collaborative and supportive environment. Jason Burrus is… read more »

MyJoogTV Brings Local Drinks and Music Together in Perfect Harmony

Wine and song often share a room, especially after a glass or three. LAst year Virginia software developer Todd Godbout brought two of his loves — live music and local spirits — together online via MyJoogTV. The production company and website is a combination of Godbout’s earlier ventures, the wine directory and blog Wine-Compass and… read more »

Bring on the Bubbles: Beyond Champagne

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When Arlington’s EatBar hosted its annual sparkling wine tasting event in December, they attracted a record crowd. The afternoon showcased a global range of affordable sparklers, including Spanish Cavas, Italian Prosecco and bubbly sippers from Argentina to Oregon. The take away – think beyond champagne, the world of bubbly is bigger than ever. This month… read more »

The next Malbec, Sparkling from New Mexico and a Special Offer for Readers

Andrew Stover of OYA and SEI recommends trying Michigan wines.

Oenophiles are always seeking the best, new thing in a glass, and if it’s reasonably priced – even better.   If holiday revelry left you with an empty wine fridge and a thin wallet, here are some tips from the top wine professionals across the region for bottles under $20 and glasses under $10 to try… read more »

King of Domestics- Andrew Stover of Oya

Andrew Stover of Oya and SEI

Andrew Stover’s interest in boutique wines began a decade ago when he was working part-time in the tasting room at Purcellville’s Breaux Vineyards, pouring tastes and learning about the wine business. Soon after, a trip home to visit his family in Michigan or a jaunt to the mountains of Georgia became more than pleasure travel… read more »