Hey there, fellow art enthusiasts! Today, we’re taking a break from our usual creative endeavors to explore a different kind of artistry – the artistry of winemaking. And trust me, it’s more hands-on than you might think!
Ever wondered what makes a wine truly special? It’s not just about the grapes, but also about the place where those grapes are grown. We’re talking about terroir – the unique combination of soil, climate, and topography that gives each wine its distinct character. It’s the magic ingredient that elevates a simple sip into an unforgettable experience.
Recently, I had the pleasure of embarking on a virtual wine tasting adventure through the picturesque vineyards of Loudoun County, Virginia. Join me as we retrace my steps, discovering the hidden gems and passionate winemakers that make this region a must-visit for any art and wine lover!
From Farmer’s Market to Vineyard: A Day Trip Through Loudoun County
My journey began at the bustling Leesburg Farmer’s Market, where I met the wonderful Bob & Loree Rupy of October One Vineyard (O1V). These folks are all about letting the land speak for itself, crafting single-vineyard, single-varietal wines that truly capture the essence of the vintage. Their 2017 Cabernet Franc, a collaboration with Nate Walsh of Walsh Family Wines, was a revelation – bursting with pepper and spice. A true testament to the power of terroir!
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October One Vineyard
Next, I ventured to Lost Creek Winery, nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Potomac. Owners Todd and Aimee Henkle are masters of their craft, crafting their Echelon series to showcase the very best of each vintage. Their 2017 Echelon, a 100% naturally fermented Merlot from O1V, promises to be something truly special when it’s released in late 2020. Keep an eye out for this one!
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The rolling hills of Loudoun County
My final stop was Walsh Family Wines in Purcellville, where I had the chance to learn about their unique approach to winemaking. Nate and Sarah Walsh, third-generation farmers, believe that great wine starts with great farming. Their sold-out 2017 Russ Mountain Merlot is a testament to this philosophy. Though it’s no longer available, you can still experience the magic of their 2017 vintage with their En Passant blend, a delightful combination of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Tannat grapes from some of Loudoun’s finest vineyards.
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Walsh Family Wines
The Summit of Terroir: A Taste of Bluemont Vineyard
No wine tour of Loudoun County would be complete without a visit to Bluemont Vineyard. While not all of the wines featured in the tasting are currently available, they will soon be releasing the highly anticipated 2017 Summit. This limited-edition Merlot blend is the brainchild of winemaker Scott Spelbring, who believes in a hands-off approach, allowing the terroir to shine through. The result is a wine that is both complex and elegant, a true reflection of the unique terroir of Loudoun County.
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Bluemont Vineyard
Letting Terroir Take the Lead
Both Scott Spelbring and Nate Walsh are advocates for natural fermentation, a process that allows the grapes to ferment at their own pace, guided by the natural yeasts present in the vineyard. This hands-off approach results in wines with greater complexity and depth of flavor, showcasing the unique characteristics of each vineyard.
“Natural fermentation is like letting the grapes tell their own story,” says Scott Spelbring. “It’s a riskier approach, but the rewards are well worth it. You end up with wines that are truly expressive of their place of origin.”
Experience the Art of Terroir at Robert Kline Art
Just like a handmade piece of art, each bottle of wine from Loudoun County is a unique expression of the artist’s vision and the materials they use. The next time you’re looking for a gift for the art lover in your life (or for yourself!), consider gifting them a bottle of wine from one of these incredible Loudoun County wineries. It’s a gift that engages the senses and tells a story, just like a work of art.
What are your favorite ways to experience terroir? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below! And be sure to check out the amazing selection of handmade gifts and artwork available on Robert Kline Art, perfect for adding a touch of artistry to your everyday life.