It has been a while since Virginia Wine Time has taken its show on the proverbial road—Loudoun Trail to be more exact. We therefore decided to dedicate a weekend to updating ourselves on the latest offerings on the Loudoun Trail. On Day 1, we visited Breaux Vineyards, Doukenie Winery (formerly known as Windham), and Village Winery. And the Gold Stars went to—–. Well, read on to find out!
Our first stop was at Breaux Vineyards now celebrating its tenth year of wine making. The tasting room was quite busy on a beautiful late spring afternoon, and ten wines were offered for sampling. As we’ve mentioned in previous posts, summer quaffers are on our agenda now that the hot weather has descended upon us, and Breaux Vineyards had several options in that department. Easy sippers would include the stainless steel fermented 2005 Madeleine’s Chardonnay, the 2006 Syrah Rose, and the sweeter 2004 Chere Marie made from the Vidal Blanc. Shellfish lovers will enjoy the 2002 Jolie Blanc, a Seyval Blanc that is a dead ringer for Sauvignon Blanc. Now for the gold star designation—we both agreed that the 2005 Viognier was the winner. Loaded with lush tropical fruit and fermented in stainless steel, the 2005 Viognier could either be enjoyed on its own or with a favorite seafood dish. For those looking for a lighter-bodied red for the summer, try the 2002 Lafayette. A blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, the 2002 Lafayette can be enjoyed with summer sausage and cheese.
As we finished our tasting at Breaux, we were mindful of our appetites and our plan to visit three wineries on that day. For that purpose, food is always in the car. (Do remember that when visiting wineries, do not feel obligated to taste everything or to finish all that is poured in your glass. Dump freely, bring food and snack often!) With our selections made at Breaux, we decided to travel on to the winery formerly known as Windham now doing business as Doukenie. The original owner of the Windham farm was Greek, and Doukenie is Greek for Duchess hence the name change. Other things have stayed the same—Doug Fabbioli is still the wine maker, and Windham/Doukenie still offers quality wines. Paul was charged with selecting the lunch wine, and he took his task very seriously. Of course, we began with a tasting of wine currently being sampled, and Paul realized the daunting nature of his assignment as he enjoyed all of the wines poured. Warren’s personal gold star went to the 2006 Riesling with its citrus aromas and flavors. Nice mineral characteristics here with a crisp finish—lovely for summer, fall, winter, or spring! The slightly sweet Mandolin blended from Traminette, Vidal Blanc, and Chardonnay would be another picnic favorite but can be reserved for Thanksgiving fare.
Now what about Paul’s selection for lunch? Well, he saw Merlot on the tasting sheet and decided to wait until he sampled all wines to decide. (I think he already had his mind made up when he saw that sheet!). Anyway, his favorite was the 2005 Merlot. An easy sipper, the 2005 Merlot packed lots of cherry flavors with a lingering finish. Paul described the tannins as velvety, and he awarded this one his gold star. Guess which wine we had with lunch? Warren did not object; with deli meats, red cherries, and Emmental cheese in the picnic basket, the 2005 Merlot was a true match. However, be sure to try the 2004 Vintner’s Reserve—much bolder, this blend was created based on the input from Case Club members.
As we enjoyed lunch on the back deck, we noticed the many varieties of birds on the property. In fact, the word Merlot is French for young black bird, and we certainly observed lots of those. Bird watchers would have quite a time documenting the many varieties that flutter about the Doukenie grounds; of course, no visit to Doukenie would be complete without a visit from the sweetest winery dog around, Lucie! She would love to join in for lunch, but she kindly accepts hugs as an alternative.
We certainly lingered over our Merlot and lunch at Doukenie, but we were aware of our commitment to the Loudoun Trail. Next up was Village Winery, and that is where we will pick up with our next installment. In the meantime, visit BreauxVineyards and Doukenie Winery and mention that Virginia Wine Time sent you.