So back on the Loudon County Trail, Tarara Winery offers much to please the palate. We recently found ourselves back on the Loudon County Trail, and Tarara was on our list of wineries to visit. Of course, we were in pursuit of summer wines, and we concluded that Tarara had several releases to fit the bill.

On a very warm summer afternoon, we visited Tarara Winery with lunch relaxing in the cooler. We opted for the full tasting which included the reserve wines (Remember, it’s okay to dump in the bucket when being aggressive at the tasting bar!) Double gold stars went to the 2006 Viognier, a star varietal in Virginia and one that does quite well at Tarara. Aged in stainless steel, the 2006 Viognier presented a floral nose with pear, citrus, and melon flavors in the mouth. Exotic and seductive might describe the 2006 Viognier at Tarara. For those who prefer a zestier wine, the 2006 Pinot Gris would be an option. We tend to remember certain friends on our winery visits, and readers may recall our guest reviewer, Michael Tyler. Warren marked “MT” next to the 2006 Charval, a slightly sweeter offering that is also aged in stainless steel. Michael often trends toward the semi-sweet wines, and the Charval has his name all over it! The ultimate patio sipper, the Charval is a blend of Chardonnay, Seyval Blanc, and Vidal Blanc.

Did we ignore the reds? Of course not! Paul’s favorite was the 2004 Merlot, and for the price, it was the bargain of the day. Nice cherry flavors and satiny tanning drive this easy-to-drink wine. Close behind was the 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon; slightly bolder, this Cab can be enjoyed with a grilled steak and roasted veggies. However, don’t be afraid to sip a glass of this one while dinner is one the grill. Double stars, however, went to the 2003 Meritage. Dark fruit and tobacco were the notes that we scribbled on the tasting sheet. Very dry with a lengthy finish, drink the 2003 Meritage now but think about the aging potential first.

So what was for lunch? Herbed turkey filets with a honey-mustard sauce, jasmine rice, and a fruit salad. What wine did we select? The 2006 Viognier was our choice, and enjoyed our lunch and wine on Tarara’s deck that overlooks it wooded landscape. We found the shadiest table on the deck to enjoy food, wine and scenery.

So you all know the routine—tasting, then food/wine, then purchases and farewells until next time. We know that we will attend at least one of Tarara’s summer concerts. However, we know that readers will want to visit Tarara soon; so, tell them that Virginia Wine Time sent you!