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Vol. III, Issue No. 12
December 2008
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Dear Friend of Virginia Wine:
I can hardly believe that another year is almost gone and that this will be our final newsletter of 2008! It has been a good year for Virginia's wineries and a good year for Virginia Wine Lover magazine which we launched in May. And speaking of the magazine, what a great holiday gift for family and friends. It's reasonably priced and so easy to subscribe.
In this issue, we're pleased to introduce Virginia's newest winery, Sunset Hills in Loudoun County, as well as the beautiful Mark Addy Inn near Wintergreen. Don't miss the recipe for Boeuf Bourguignon that Genevieve DelFosse was good enough to share with us. The calendar is choc full of holiday gatherings at the wineries that include open houses, wine and food pairings, winemaker dinners and shopping opportunities. The Winter Solstice Celebration at North Mountain and grand New Year's Eve masked ball at Veritas sound wonderful.
Thank you for your continuing interest and encouragement, and your suggestions and comments about our newsletter and Virginia Wine Lover magazine are most welcome. We wish you the happiest of holidays and all the best in the New Year!
 Cheers!
Frank C. Britt
Publisher
P.S. Check out all the recipes featured in VIRGINIA WINE LOVER magazine. Click on the recipe link here: RECIPES
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| FROM PARIS TO FABER
By Claude DelFosse, Owner, DelFosse Vineyards & Winery
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Somewhere approximately half way between Paris and San Francisco, one finds Faber Virginia, home of DelFosse Vineyards and Winery. Tucked alongside the Eastern slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains, some 20 miles South of Charlottesville, the environment is beautiful, scenic and very rural, a far cry from the Champs Elysees!
Owners Claude and Genevieve DelFosse, both originally from France established the winery in 2005 with the goal of producing premium high end varietal wines as well as blends. With approximately 20 acres under vines, the winery produces Estate Bottled wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Petit Mansend and Cabernet Sauvignon, in addition to the more traditional Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Viognier, and Merlot. Three blends are named after each of the 3 children, a Reserve d'Oriane, Cuvee Laurent and Grand Cru  Olivier. Many of these wines have won Best of Category and Gold Medals at various national and international competitions. The winery has a sustainability program in place and focuses on installing green practices where feasible. The winery also hosts frequent public events such as concerts, wine dinners, wine and food pairings, and barrel tastings and is available for private events such as weddings and corporate affairs. Come visit, we are "So close, yet so far".
DelFosse Vineyards
500 DelFosse Winery Lane
Faber, VA 22938
(434) 263-6100
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FEATURED RECIPE: BOEUF BOURGUIGNON
Courtesy of DelFosse Winery
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| VIRGINIA'S NEWEST WINERY: SUNSET HILLS VINEYARDS SPECTACULAR SUNSETS AND SIPS
By Dezel Quillen, Wine Writer, Virginia Vine Spot
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With clear and sunny skies I left the hustle and bustle of the city and headed for Loudoun Wine Country. I was eager to visit one of the wine trails newest additions, Sunset Hills Vineyard. Owned by Diane and Mike Canney, Sunset Hills Vineyard is located in western Loudoun County and situated amidst tranquil and picturesque surroundings.
The newly built tasting room is gorgeous, housed in a meticulously restored multi-level 1870's circa, stone and oak barn - truly a fine mix of charm and rustic elegance. The tasting room is large and comfortable with a wrap-around mahogany tasting bar and offers a satisfying, informative, and welcoming atmosphere. On warmer days, enjoy a bottle of wine and a cheese platter on the multi-level outdoor deck and bask in the glorious views of Hillsborough Gap, back-dropped by the Blue Ridge Mountains. For the cooler months, savor a glass of wine in the attractive and spacious tasting room. Tall 35-foot ceilings, restored hardwood floors, up-stairs and down-stairs seating, wig-if, winery tours, and picture windows overlooking the vineyard, are just some of the niceties offered. Inaugural offerings consist of a Viognier 2007, Chardonnay 2006, Reserve Chardonnay 2006, Petit Verdot 2006, and last but not least, a rich Cabernet Sauvignon 2006. If good wine and beautiful views are your thing, be sure to catch a sunset and a sip at Sunset Hills Vineyards!
Sunset Hills Vineyards
38295 Fremont Overlook Lane
Purcellville, VA 20132
(540) 882-4560
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BED & BREAKFAST OF THE MONTH
THE MARK ADDY INN
By Jack North, President, B&B Association of Virginia
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Whether you're a wine lover who loves adventure, or an adventurer with a taste for wine, you'll want to make your way to the heart of Central Virginia's wine country in beautiful Nelson County and the Mark Addy Inn. Located at the base of Wintergreen Mountain, and just a few miles from Wintergreen Ski Resort, the Mark Addy boasts a very unique wine package that offers the perfect way to get a flavor for the area's award-winning wines while experiencing the breathtaking natural scenery of Nelson County, dotted with family orchards, vineyards, wineries and unique antique shops.
 Guests who participate in the Wine Lovers Scavenger Hunt Package follow clues that guide them to their next winery destination. At each winery they are given another clue for an item to bring back. Guests who are lucky enough to bring back all of the items receive a special prize! Past guests have raved about the friendliness of the wineries' staff members and how excited they get when they see a guest from the Mark Addy with their Scavenger Hunt paper in-hand.
This special package includes: · Two-night stay at the luxurious inn · Daily three-course gourmet breakfast for two · Tour of four (or more) local wineries · Gourmet chocolates in room · 2 bottles of Virginia Wine · A special prize for finding all of the clues (valued at OVER $200!)  The Mark Addy Inn is beautifully restored and lovingly appointed, and beckons with the romance and richness of a bygone era. Charming and luxurious rooms offer elegant comfort, serene privacy and incredible views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the surrounding countryside. After a day of exploring and wine tasting, return to your romantic escape to relax on one of our five porches, reminisce, read a book by the fireplace, or watch the sunset. Then stay and enjoy an elegant gourmet candle-lit dinner at The Fountain Room, complimented by their excellent selection of local wines.
Mark Addy Inn 56 Rodes Farm Drive Nellysford, VA 22958 434-361-1101 Email: info@mark-addy.com www.mark-addy.com
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| MOSBY RANGERS WINE TRAIL FORMED
By Jim Bogaty, Veramar Vineyards
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"The Yellow Brick Road may lead to Oz but the road along the newly formed Mosby Wine Rangers Trail leads to great wine, great food, romance and the excitement of history come alive.", according to Jim Bogaty, president of the new wine trail. Six vineyard wineries located in and immediately around the Mosby Heritage Area have come together to provide a new twist on wine trails. They are Veramar Vineyard, Three Fox Vineyards, Swedenburg Vineyards, Gadino Cellars, Sunset Hills Vineyards, and the Winery at La Grange. Each is in a different Northern Virginia County.
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WINE AND TODAY'S "HUNTING CAMP"
By Alan Pyles, Owner, The Lafayette Inn
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Nearly every year of my life I have participated in "hunting camp". Some of the camps being fairly primitive (certainly no cable!) and others being an undercover spa. What I find interesting is, each provides both a pleasant experience and a common ground to make new (perhaps/often) temporary friends.
One particular hunting camp evokes strong memorable experiences. That being in South Dakota during pheasant season. After a long day of hunting, people from all over the nation, varied walks of life returned to the local (semi-dive) hotel. The strangest thing followed, as we walked down the hall, 90% of the room doors are open. Hunters are walking from room to room, meeting people for the same time, sharing their experiences, and who knows, perhaps embellishing just a tad in the process. Boundaries dropped, and everyone seemed to get a long just fine. A pleasant reminder of how our society can blend when the superficial items are striped. In this case, everyone was decked out in their best Cabala's gear for the "fashion conscious" and the Wal-Mart for the more fiscal aware.
Click Here To Read More...
Alan Pyles is the owner of The Lafayette Inn located at 146 E. Main Street in Stanardsville, VA. Visit their website at www.thelafayette.com.
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| AMRHEIN'S BAUBLES, BRIDES AND WINES
By Chad AmRhein
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Before there was AmRhein Wine Cellars, there was AmRhein's Fine Jewelry, and then there was AmRhein's Brides and Formals. Opened in 1921 by Fredrick AmRhein in downtown Roanoke, the jewelry store is now in its fourth generation with a second location in Salem. They specialize in diamonds from Antwerp, Belgium, sterling silver, gold and platinum and estate jewelry. AmRhein's Brides and Formals was started by Russell and Paula AmRhein in 1993. They offer a wide range of wedding and formal attire.
This entrepreneurial family founded AmRhein Wine Cellars in 1996 with the planting of a few acres of grapes during a rain storm. Today there are some 50,000 grapevines in three vineyards on 45 acres. Each is at a different elevation along the Blue Ridge Mountains, giving the grapes from each vineyard their own distinct characteristics. The first AmRhein wine was produced in 1999, and in 2001 and 2002 AmRhein received the Virginia Governors Cup.
And wouldn't you just know that the winery is a popular place for weddings and other special events. Next up is "Holly Days" Open House on December 13-14, with free wine tastings, holiday treats and special prices on select wines.
AmRhein's Fine Jewelry
2740 Ogden Road | Roanoke, VA 24018 | (540) 989-7100
1101 West Main Street, | Salem, VA 24153 | (540) 387-3816
AmRhein's Brides and Formals
2740 Ogden Road | Roanoke, VA 24018 | (540) 989-7100
AmRhein Wine Cellars
9243 Patterson Road | Bent Mountain, VA 24059 | (540) 929-4632
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DECEMBER VIRGINIA WINE EVENTS
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Many wineries host Holiday Open Houses during December. For a complete list and additional information, visit www.virginiawines.org. The information listed here comes from many sources, so we strongly suggest that you check websites or call wineries direct for details about costs and reservations.
December 6-7: Shenandoah Wine Trail Deck the Halls
Visit the wineries of the Shenandoah Valley and sample award winning wines and breathtaking scenery. Purchase a grapevine wreath at your starting venue and collect a Christmas ornament at each winery. www.svwga.org
December 6: Holiday Gift ExtravaganzaChateau O'Brien at Northpoint, Markham Avoid the mall traffic...shop with us for the perfect gifts. Original art, jewelry, custom gift baskets, delectable treats and more. (540) 364-6441 www.chateauobrien.com
December 6-7: Holiday Open House
Fabbioli Cellars, Leesburg A chance to visit, sample the wines and have a bite to eat. 703-771-1197 www.fabbioli.com
December 6-7: Heart of Virginia Jingle Bell Wine TrailTour Cooper, Grayhaven, James River and Lake Anna Wineries. Tour ticket includes souvenir glass, tastings and special gift at the end of the trail. (540) 894-5253 www.coopervineyards.com
December 6-7: Oakencroft Holiday Open HouseOakencroft Winery, Charlottesville Special discounts on wines for holiday giving. 434-296-4188 www.oakencroft.com
December 6-7, 13-14: Holiday Open House
Chateau Morrisette, Floyd Visit the mountain top for tastings, complimentary hors d'oeuvres and holiday shopping. 540-593-2865 www.thedogs.com
December 6-7: Annual Holiday Open House
Gray Ghost Vineyards, Amissville See world's largest Christmas cork display (50,000 corks). Holiday foods and wines. 540-937-4869 www.grayghostvineyards.com
December 7: Holiday Wine & Food Pairing
Delfosse Vineyards & Winery, Faber
A fun and tasty pairing of Chef Genevieve's gourmet, seasonal selections.
December 11: Reserve Tasting & Winemakers Dinner
Williamsburg Winery, Williamsburg Tastings in the barrel cellar followed by 4-course dinner at Gabriel Archer Tavern. 757-229-0999 www.williamsburgwinery.com
December 13: Champagne & Hors d'oeuvres Holiday Mixer
Willowcroft Farm Vineyards, Leesburg Champagne tasting with food fare to compliment the merry sparklers. 703-777-8161 www.willowcroftwine.com
December 13: Christmas Around the World Wine Dinner
Pearmund Cellars, Broad Run Dressy affair to celebrate the coming of Christmas and share holiday cheer with friends and family. 540-345-3475 www.pearmundcellars.com
December 13-14: "Holly Days" Open House
AmRhein Wine Cellars, Bent Mountain
Free wine tastings, holiday treats and special prices on select wines.
(540) 929-4632
December 13-14: Cooper Holiday Open House Cooper Vineyards, Louisa Stock up for the holidays with wine and gifts. Light fare. Free tastings. (540) 894-5253 www.coopervineyards.com
December 14: Winter Holiday Brunch
Delfosse Vineyards & Winery, Faber Join Chef Genevieve for a delicious holiday brunch. (434) 263-6100 www.delfossewine.com
December 19-20: James River Holiday Open House
James River Cellars, Glen Allen Tastings, special craft vendors and unique holiday gifts. 804-550-7516 www.jamesrivercellars.com
December 20: Holiday Gala
Cross Keys Vineyards & Estate, Mt. Crawford First annual with live music, dancing, holiday food and release of the decadent ice wine, Goldance. 540-234-0505 www.crosskeysvineyards.com
December 20: Winter Solstice Celebration
Celebrate the longest night of the year with lighting of the great bonfire. Sample German Gluehwein with traditional German cookies. North Mountain Vineyards, Maurertown 540-436-9463 www.northmountainvineyard.com
December 27-29: Winter Open HouseJames River Cellars, Glen Allen Warm and cozy winter season wine tasting. 804-550-7516 www.jamesrivercellars.com
December 31: 3rd Annual New Year's Eve Masked BallVeritas Vineyards & Winery, Afton Black Tie Optional. Wine and hors d'oeuvers followed by 5-course dinner, dancing til midnight when the masks come off and the champagne flows! Breakfast follows at 12:30 a.m. (540) 456-8000 www.veritaswines.com
If you have an event to list, please email it to us at info@vawinelover.com. If we have missed listing an event in this newsletter, we can still add it to our newsletter posted on the www.vawinelover.com website. |
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BEDFORD WINE FESTIVAL
November 22, 2008
Centertown, Bedford, VA
Despite the bitter cold, the Bedford Wine Festival on November 22 was warmly received. Organized by Sergei Troubetzkoy (left, second from top), director of the Tourism and Welcome Center, the event attracted visitors to Centertown Bedford for wine tastings, lively music and holiday shopping. Be sure to attend next year's festival held at Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest.
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| ADVERTISE IN THE MAGAZINE! |
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Travel and Leisure Magazine names Virginia one of the top five new travel wine destinations in the world - July 2007.
 If you are interested in advertising in Virginia Wine Lover magazine, contact us at info@vawinelover.com.
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If you would like to contribute an article to our WINE LOVER E-Newsletter, please send information to news@vawinelover.com.
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