This past weekend we enjoyed two favorites from Virginia: Linden’s 2006 Shari Avenious Sauvignon Blanc and the 2004 Chester Gap Merlot.

The Linden 2006 Shari Avenious Sauvignon Blanc is a true gem. We’ve heard it even has a cult following, and we’re already fans ourselves. The aroma is seductive enough—lots of lemon with grassy notes made us think of spring. Lemon and grapefruit flavors prevail with an undercurrent of mineral, and it finishes with a bright tartness. We enjoyed this Sauvignon Blanc with herbed chicken, but any shellfish dish would also be likely partners.

Paul was eager to savor the 2004 Chester Gap Merlot. He noted its deep garnet color and dried fruit aromas. I added spice to the list, and we both put dark cherry at the top of the flavors list. A hint of anise toward the end led to a longer than expected finish. We sipped this one with rib-eye steaks and roasted veggies. Anything that moos would have been fine with the 2004 Chester Gap Merlot!

Of course, we have started off a new year, and we look forward to tasting more great wines from Virginia this year. We’ll be focusing on newer wineries in Virginia, and look for our next article in Edible Chesapeake that will appear in the Spring issue. The topic? We’ll keep it a secret for now. In the meantime, if you visit Linden Vineyards or Chester Gap Cellars, mention that Virginia Wine Time sent you.