Virginia Wine at Julep’s

Julep’s in Shockoe Bottom (Photo from website)

(Photo Courtesy of Website)

Any time I can help the local economy, I’m in. Especially when drinking wine is involved.   Not so long ago, restaurants, local wine shops and grocery stores promoted Virginia Wines.  It was called  “Love By the Glass,”  and was organized by www.virginiawine.org.  By the way, if you need to know everything and anything about Virginia Wineries and events, this is the website to go to.  Julep’s, located in Shockoe Bottom, kicked off the Week’s promotion.  Virginia’s First Lady,  Maureen McDonnell was there to show her and the Governor’s support.

I was by myself so I went straight to the bar to taste some wine (hey, I needed to look busy!).  As I was tasting my Stone Mountain 2006 Petit Verdot, a young lady was standing next to me.  She was wearing some killer shoes so I had to compliment her on them. Come to find out, she worked for Barboursville Vineyards, the first vineyard I ever visited.  Her name was Jerilyn Monts and she was absolutely lovely!  Barboursville hired a great person to represent their vineyard!

As I was tasting the Kluge 2007 Albemarle Viognier, I munched on the fine cuisine that Julep’s had to offer: Roast Beef on Baquettes, Bacon wrapped scallops on cornbread, and fried pineapple.

I then met Sarah Huggins, who is the Executive Director of the Governor’s Mansion.  We had a great conversation about her job working for the Governor.  I was happy to hear that the Governor and his wife totally support local products, and as soon as the Governor took office he made sure that many of the products used in the mansion were produced in Virginia, including everything from wine to flowers to peanuts.  Thanks for sharing that with me Sarah!

In conclusion, it was a great event- Kudos to Julep’s and VirginiaWine.org for making this happen!

Tasting notes:

Stone Mountain 2006 Petit Verdot:  To the nose: Tobacco, Plum, and Raspberries.  To the palette: Real Licorice, Pepper Steak with Sauteed Onions, Black Currants.  Fermented in Stainless Steel and French Oak.

Kluge 2007 Albemarle Viognier: To the nose: Lemon, Pink Grapefruit, and Apples.  To the palette: Sweet Tarts, Lemon Zest with a honeysuckle and almond finish.

Since Barboursville was the first vineyard I ever visited I decided to post this painting:

“Bursting with Flavor”   Barboursville Vineyards

16 1/2 x 13 1/2 Oil on Canvas Board, Oak Frame Cherry Finish.  $214

Cheers! *clink*

-Erika