2024 Barboursville Vineyards - Vermentino Reserve (750ml)

Barboursville Vineyards is Virginia's pioneer wine estate, established in 1976 by Gianni Zonin, a seventh-generation winegrower from Gambellara, Italy. The property spans 900 acres in the Blue Ridge foothills, with just 176 acres planted on red clay soils of volcanic origin, and winemaker Luca Paschina, an Italy-trained oenologist, has led the estate since 1990.

Vermentino is native to the maritime growing regions of Liguria, Corsica, and Sardinia, but it has adapted beautifully to Virginia's warm Piedmont climate. The grapes are fermented in stainless steel without malolactic fermentation, then aged in stainless steel with at least seven to eight months of lees contact, which builds texture and body while preserving freshness.

The result is pale yellow with hints of silvery green, medium-light in body and poised stylistically between Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, with the lively mid-palate of Sancerre and a finish reminiscent of Chablis. Expect a crisp, fresh glass full of citrus, pear, and green apple, with notes of stone fruit and a hint of almond. Lemon blossom and lychee round out the profile, carrying through a dry, structured, mineral-driven finish.

This Vermentino is a natural match for shellfish and fish in any preparation, making it a versatile, food-friendly white for warm-weather entertaining.