It has been a while since we have been on the wine trails; however, this past weekend we made certain to enjoy the transition from spring to summer with a visit to Slater Run Vineyards. Our summer plans include outdoor concerts, picnics, and gatherings with friends, and our quest was to stock up on summer pours that would be appropriate for warm nights, festive fireflies, and summer fun!
Our visit to Slater Run Vineyards coincided with the winery’s opening of its new spacious tasting room. The well-appointed tasting room highlights a trendy yet tasteful barn-like atmosphere with plenty of glass doors and windows to maximize exposure to green space and mountain views. We also appreciate the no pets, no children rule; yes, we like dogs and love toddlers, but wine tasting is an adult (and human) experience. (Sorry to offend anyone!)
Kathy skillfully guided us through our tasting experience. My palate was tuned in to summer wines, and the 2018 Pinot Gris with its citrus notes and refreshing palate was an instant hit for me. We both enjoyed the 2018 Rose, a blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Bright red berry aromas and red berry flavors screamed summer. (Readers may already know that 2018 was a very difficult growing season due to heavy rain, so get ready for lots of rose from Virginia wineries.) Lean meats on the grill should pair well with the light-bodied 2016 Cabernet Franc with its brambleberry notes and spicy finish. Grilled steaks and heartier meats would appreciate the 2016 Roots as a sidekick. Cabernet Sauvignon dominates this blend and is accompanied by Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Merlot. Dark fruit prevails on the palate and the mouthfeel is heavier; however, the tannins are pliable; this one is accessible now but feel free to store on the rack for fall.
We enjoyed a bottle of the 2018 Rose with sliced ham, fresh strawberries, and light cheeses while taking in the scenic view from the patio. A gentle breeze and the scent of blossoms filled with warm air. Of course, we left with a case of our favorite wines, and we encourage readers to do the same. Please visit the new (and expansive) tasting room at Slater Run Vineyards to enjoy their excellent wines. Be sure to mention that Virginia Wine Time sent you!
You are very welcome! Glad the information was helpful. We couldn’t agree more with you about children and wineries. We hope you get up this way soon too! Have fun and thanks for the comment!
I am delighted to see you all back on the wine trail and to hear that Slater Run is child-free. As the mother of two, there is nothing more irritating to me that trying to enjoy an activity that is, by definition, for adults, only to have children running around, taking seats and chairs from the adults, and generally causing havoc. I know there are well behaved children, but it doesn’t seem that too many of them visit wineries! Thanks, as always for the information on another one of Virginia’s great wineries. Looking forward to getting up to the northern area soon to visit them.