Narmada Wines
I had the pleasure of attending the Old Town Food & Wine Festival, held in Alexandria Virginia last week. For a couple of days I was able to sample wine at several stations throughout the city and at two large tasting locations. I was also able to attend some wine seminars and dinners which was also nice. It was very well put together. People can grab a glass of wine and stroll through the streets as long as they were in a neighboring establishment.
My purpose for attending Sunday was to sample wines from the newer wineries such as Narmada Winery, Ducard Vineyards, and Democracy Vineyards. Narmada first planed vines on their property back in 2004, and have increased their acreage ever since. Eventually they made plans to build their own winery. The vines they produce consist of grapes grown on the property and those from elsewhere – including some from Benevino Vineyards. As their vineyard matures they will be more self sufficient. What I liked most about these wines is that they are traditional Virginian wines. They don’t try to mask characteristics by putting in too much oak or try to make a grape into something it’s not suitable for. For example, their dry Chambourcin is exactly what is expected from the grape.
I went to the other grand tasting room so I could sample wines from Democracy Vineyards. This winery is located in a beautiful country setting. Both of their wines are blends of the red Velvet Revolution Reserve and the white Declaration Reserve. It consisted of Chambourcin, Tannat, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. The reserve also contains equal amounts of Tarminette, Seyval Blanc, and Chardonnay which makes a nice table wine. I couldn’t quite get a feel for this wine because the cold temperature overpowered the aroma and flavors, but overall it was a nice blend.
Narmada Tasting Room
I had to cut my trip to The Old Town Food & Wine Festival for other matters, but it was certainly a great event and I look forward to next year’s.