While on our recent Loudoun County winery tour, we decided to visit Sunset Hills Vineyard. Though owners Diane and Mike Canney established their first Chardonnay vineyard in 1997, the winery is very new and opened for business two months ago; in fact, the facility is a restored 130-year old Amish farm. Of course, we were eager to taste current offerings, and in the process we got a sneak barrel tasting from Mike Canney.

Three white wines were available for tasting, and all three were very good. My own favorite was the Viognier with its pineapple and honey characteristics. I noted a longer finish, too. This Viognier is finished in neutral French oak and therefore has more body and structure without an overwhelming oak feel. Paul preferred the stainless steel Chardonnay and appreciated its flavors of apples and pears. Not to be missed is the Reserve Chardonnay. Aged in French oak barrels, the Reserve Chardonnay exhibits hazelnuts on the nose and roasted pineapple in the mouth; a nice buttery finish is the product of partial malolactic fermentation.

Of the red wines, we both placed a star next to the 2006 Cabernet Franc with its notes and flavors of rich red berries, dried herbs and spice. Aged 18 months in oak, this one is built for longevity. A pairing with any favorite beef or game dish would do just fine. Of its 20 acres of planted vines, the largest planting is Cabernet Franc. The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon was likewise quite good and another age-worthy pour. This one offered darker fruit characteristics with smooth tannins. Seventeen months in French oak will allow this Cabernet to age very well.

We did get to meet owner Mike Canney who offered us a barrel tasting of developing Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. We saw great potential with these evolving wines, and we noted Mike’s passion for making quality wines. His dedication was reflected in the immaculate barrel room located beneath the tasting facility. Mike was also mindful of soils and environment when he selected his property for use as a vineyard. The results are the quality wines that are available in the tasting room. We also discovered that Mike is a race car driver, so perhaps he also knows how to keep a competitive edge!

At the end of our tasting and tour, we shared a glass of the Viognier and watched a spectacular sunset as we sipped and savored. Before we left Sunset Hill Vineyard, I was sure to purchase a bottle of the Viognier with a shellfish dinner in mind. We do intend to return to Sunset Hills, but we do recommend a visit to readers; of course, be sure to mention that Virginia Wine Time sent you.