Spring Wine Tasting: James River Cellars

En route to the beaches in North Carolina for a little spring R&R I decided to make a few wine stops on the way, how could I not when they are right off the highway? It was a random Tuesday and the first stop was James River Cellars. They have 20 acres of vines in Montpelier, those onsite in front of the tasting room are just for decoration, they are able to grow the majority of their varietals there, with the exception of Moscat and Chambourcin. Our server was Alison and she did a great job talking about the wines and offered several recipes throughout the tasting. 

The tasting included 14 wines for $5 in a bright and airy tasting room, unfortunately I think the wine distracted me from taking photos on this stop.  I really enjoyed the 2010 Vidal Blanc that had a peach nose, but the grapefruit really came through when drinking the wine. The 2010 Rad Red which is a blend of the Merlot and Cab Franc was a deep, dry red and a portion of the proceeds go to the Massey Cancer Center in Richmond, I couldn't help but pick up a bottle for both the taste and the donation. I also enjoyed the 2008 Merlot and the 2008 Montelier Blush which has 3.2% rs, but would be quite enjoyable on a hot summer day; judging by the current DC weather, I'm guessing we are on our way to a long hot one, so I stocked up to be prepared! The other tasters had asked some questions about wine festivals and the staff advised that should you attend a two day festival go on the second day as that is usually Sunday, Saturdays tend to draw the rowdier crowds, I'll definitely be heeding this advice.

This stop was quick-for 14 wines!-quaint and easy to get to from the highway. There really wasn't much I didn't enjoy and the prices were pretty good too!