The Shenandoah Valley is quickly developing in to an attractive, respected area to grow grapes. This location has shown to be prosperous with European wine grape varietals. The rolling hills create great drainage, and cool air, which help with producing sweet grapes, while protecting the vineyards from frost. Not to mention some of the prettiest countryside in Virginia that creates the perfect destination for wine tasting and touring. Bluestone Vineyard is in the center of a beautiful valley, named after the "bluestone" (a type of limestone) that is a main component of the local soil.

Spotlight on Some Monster Reds From The West Coast That Are Out Of This World.
The first act is located at Sineann, pronounced shuh-NAY-uhn, a small producer of grapes from some of the finest vineyards in the Columbia Valley region. Most of the wines come from single vineyard designated, with low crop levels, which ensure the best characteristics of the varietal and terroir shine through. Their belief is minimal processing, aging in French oak.

Mountain Run made the biggest splash in its short existence at the 2023 Virginia Governor’s Cup state-wide wine tasting competition, garnering three gold medals – one of very few wineries to pull off the feat. Gold medals were awarded to the Mountain Run 2021 vintage Petit Manseng, Petit Verdot, and Viognier. The Petit Verdot was named by the judging panel as part of the “Governor’s Case,” which includes the top 12 wines in the state for the year, making this winery one of the top wineries to go visit in Virginia.

While the most popular drink this weekend will be Irish Beer or whiskey, some of us will have other drinks in hand. Most of you reading this blog are lovers of wine and although you may slide away from your wine to enjoy a St Patrick’s Day Guinness or Jameson, you may like some ideas on what wines to pair with the food you are enjoying this weekend