When you think of American wine, Virginia may not be the first place that comes to mind, but the state’s wine industry is really starting to make its mark. Breaux Vineyards is one of the producers helping to lead the way forward. The Purcellville based operation has won numerous awards in state competitions and is starting to get more and more recognition nationally.

Here’s what our tasting panel thought about a few of their current releases:

 

Grape(s): Viognier

Region: Virginia

Year: 2010

Price: 30-35

Review:

Aromas of peach, apricot, lemon custard, and honeysuckle rise up from a glass. On the palate, floral suggestions combine with notes of apricot and citrus fruit along hints of sweet spice and honey. A wine with lush flavors that’s balanced out by a pleasant acidity, if you enjoy a round mouthfeel without all the oak of Chardonnay, this is a bottle to try.

Rating: 89

 

Grape(s): Cabernet Franc

Region: Virginia

Year: 2007

Price: 30-35

Review:

Aromatics of black cherries and boysenberries meld with notes of dark chocolate, earth, and subtle spices on the nose. A sip reveals flavors of dark cherry and bramble fruit accented by suggestions of chocolate, anise, and almonds. A wine with moderate tannins and rich fruit flavors, if you enjoy easy drinking, fairly light reds, this bottle is for you.

Rating: 90

 

Grape(s): Nebbiolo

Region: Virginia

Year: 2005

Price: 70-75

Review:

A bouquet of cherries, raspberries, and strawberries with accents of tobacco, cocoa, and floral notes rises up from a glass. Flavors of tart red berries combine with suggestions of earth, fennel seed, and spice emerge with a sip. A very dry, earthy red that pairs quite nicely with food, if you are over the fruit bombs out there and want something that’s out-of-the-ordinary, this bottle a try.

Rating: 89