Rewriting the Playbook Virginia Wineries Turn Grapes into Gold Grapes like Viognier and Cabernet Franc — relative obscurities or bit players in Old World wine traditions — are taking center stage in Virginia. Like the story of Virginia itself, these varietals tell a tale of characters from the Old World who learned to thrive in a new environment. Together with the Virginia native Norton grape, Viognier and Cabernet Franc have taken root in the soil, formed their own expressions of the terroir, and contributed to the growth of the Virginia wine industry. These three grapes have played a significant role in Virginia’s emergence as a notable player in the world of fine wine. Analogous to the Virginians who built our nation, such as George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, Viognier, Cabernet Franc, and Norton vines laid the groundwork for varieties that would follow, thriving in Virginia’s distinct soils and producing wines that are earning critical acclaim throughout the world. Bluemont Vineyard Cabernet Franc: An Elegant Leading Lady Once considered a blending grape rather than a standalone varietal — “...the bridesmaid, rarely the bride,” as Wine Enthusiast once quipped — Cabernet Franc has cemented itself as an A-lister in Virginia. It is the most widely planted grape in the Commonwealth, with more than 700 acres spread across Virginia’s 300-plus vineyards. Known for its balanced structure, spicy notes, and medium body, Cabernet Franc exudes aromas of violet, plum, and SAM DE AN tobacco. Unlike its offspring, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc performs well in Virginia’s clay soils and humid conditions. 2025 Virginia Governor’s Cup winner Luca Paschina, the winemaker at Barboursville Vineyards in Barboursville, recognized the grape’s potential early on. While he famously utilized the grape in The Octagon, a Bordeaux-style blend created at the vineyard in the early 1990s, Luca also realized that Cab Franc grown in Virginia soil could result in spectacular standalone vintages. His commitment to sourcing top Bordeaux vine cuttings and adapting them to Virginia terroir paid off. Today, Virginia’s Cabernet Francs are considered among the best in the United States, showcasing the terroir-driven differences of the grape. Where to try: King Family Vineyards in Crozet, Michael Shaps Winery in Charlottesville, and Pollak Vineyards in Greenwood all produce Cabernet Francs that are consistent in quality from year to year. For an excellent Bordeaux-style wine that exemplifies how Cabernet Franc can shine in a blend, head to Barboursville Vineyards and sample the current Octagon vintages. Virginia Travel Guide 51
Virginia Travel Guide Virginia Travel Guide 2026: Page 51
