As an expert in the wine industry, I have had the opportunity to witness the growth and success of central Virginia's wine production firsthand. While California may be the first state that comes to mind when thinking about wine in the United States, central Virginia has emerged as a hidden gem in the heart of the country. With its ideal terroir, supportive government policies, and a growing interest in locally produced wines, it is no surprise that this region has become a hub for wine production.
The Rise of Wine Companies in Central Virginia
Over the past few decades, central Virginia's wine industry has experienced significant growth. In the 1970s, there were only a handful of wineries in the region.Today, there are over 300 wineries in the state, with a significant concentration in central Virginia. This growth can be attributed to several factors, including the region's ideal terroir, supportive government policies, and a growing interest in locally produced wines. One of the main reasons for central Virginia's success in wine production is its terroir. The region's climate is similar to that of Bordeaux, France, with warm summers and mild winters. The soil is also rich in minerals and nutrients, making it perfect for growing grapes.
This combination of climate and soil creates an ideal environment for producing high-quality wines. In addition to its natural advantages, central Virginia has also received support from the state government. In 2012, Virginia passed legislation that allowed wineries to sell their products directly to consumers without going through a distributor. This change has made it easier for small wineries to enter the market and has encouraged more investment in the industry.
The Most Popular Varietal of Wine in Central Virginia
With over 300 wineries in central Virginia, there is a wide variety of wines being produced in the region. However, one varietal stands out as the most popular among both consumers and wine companies - Viognier.Viognier is a white wine grape that originated in the Rhône Valley in France.It is known for its floral aromas and full-bodied, fruity flavors. The grape was first introduced to Virginia in the 1980s and has since become the state's signature grape. One of the reasons for Viognier's popularity in central Virginia is its ability to thrive in the region's climate and soil. The grape does well in warm climates and can handle the humidity and rainfall of central Virginia. It also benefits from the region's rocky, well-drained soil, which helps to produce concentrated flavors in the grapes. Another factor contributing to Viognier's popularity is its versatility.
It can be made into a variety of styles, from dry to sweet, and can be aged in oak barrels or stainless steel tanks. This versatility allows winemakers to experiment and create unique wines that appeal to a wide range of palates.
The Best Viognier Wines from Central Virginia
With so many wineries producing Viognier in central Virginia, it can be challenging to determine which ones are the best. However, there are a few standouts that have received critical acclaim and are highly sought after by wine enthusiasts.Barboursville Vineyards
, located in Barboursville, Virginia, is one of the oldest wineries in central Virginia and is known for its award-winning Viognier. Their 2017 Reserve Viognier was named the best white wine at the 2020 Governor's Cup Wine Competition, solidifying their reputation as one of the top producers of Viognier in the region.King Family Vineyards
, located in Crozet, Virginia, is another top producer of Viognier.Their 2019 Viognier was awarded a gold medal at the 2020 Virginia Governor's Cup and was also named the best white wine at the 2020 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Veritas Vineyard & Winery
, located in Afton, Virginia, is known for its Viognier Reserve, which has consistently received high ratings from wine critics. Their 2017 vintage was awarded a gold medal at the 2020 Virginia Governor's Cup and was also named the best white wine at the 2020 Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition.The Future of Wine Companies in Central Virginia
The success of Viognier in central Virginia has put the region on the map as a top wine-producing area in the United States. As more wineries continue to invest in the region and experiment with different varietals, it is likely that we will see even more high-quality wines coming out of central Virginia in the future. However, with this growth comes challenges. As more wineries enter the market, competition for resources such as land and labor will increase.Additionally, climate change may also have an impact on wine production in central Virginia, as extreme weather events become more frequent. Despite these challenges, central Virginia's wine industry shows no signs of slowing down. With its ideal terroir, supportive government policies, and a growing interest in locally produced wines, it is clear that this region will continue to produce some of the best wines in the country.
