Known for vibrant Viognier, Jefferson Vineyards puts together a stunning rendition of this northern Rhone grape. The 2009 Jefferson Vineyards Viognier brings serious florality to the nose with wisps of honeysuckle and stone fruit, on the palate juicy apricot is grounded by an abiding minerality and secured with mouth-watering acidity. 

This is one of the best American Viognier's I've tasted in the past two years.  It would be downright delicious paired with Indian, Asian or Thai food. 

Disclosure: A sample was provided for review. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.

Bordered by Virginia's version of the Blue Ridge Mountains on the west and revolving like spiraling spokes from the hub of Charlottesville, the Monticello Wine Trail is an enigmatic wine gem of engaging proportions. It's not every wine country route that can play a tune to entice both history buffs and oenophiles alike to its playground, but the Monticello Wine Trail is not like most wine country routes.

Dotted with more than its fair share of significant historical sites, and brimming with an onslaught of new wineries trying their hands at Virginia's varied terroir, the region is a haven of history and taste. Where else can you tour the presidential homes of three U.S. presidents (Jefferson, Madison and Monroe) and enjoy first rate wine tastings mere minutes from each? 

The Commonwealth of Virginia has over 150 wineries with the Monticello AVA being the largest of Virginia's six AVAs, and host to 24 wineries and counting. Some of the most popular wineries include Barboursville Vineyards, Jefferson Vineyards, Kluge Estate, Keswick Vineyards, King Family Vineyards, Del Fosse, Mountfair Vineyards, Veritas Vineyards and Blenheim Vineyards.  Read more on touring and tasting on the Monticello Wine Trail here.

The 2008 Concannon Conservancy Chardonnay is a savory symphony of all things Chardonnay - rich engaging stone fruit on the nose; lemongrass, ripe apple and D' Anjou pear round out the palate flavors.  A cream-based mouth feel and bold lines of retaining structure add to the overall elegance of this fuller-bodied wine.  

Give this white wine a go with pork, poultry and pasta with a cream or butter based sauce.

Disclosure: A sample was provided for review. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.

The non-vintage J Vineyards Brut Rose starts the adventure with subtle salmon-like color tones in the glass and ripe strawberry, a touch of stone fruit and the sweet perfumed scent of rose on the nose. The palate profile brings the fresh fruit to the spotlight - an elegant assortment of cherry, peach, pineapple and vivid citrus components.

Made from 56% Pinot Noir and 44% Chardonnay grapes, the Pinot softens the edges and the Chardonnay insists on well-employed structure, making for a well-balanced, sparkling wine. An infinitely versatile food pairing partner, the J Vineyard's Brut Rose will show well with the likes of Thai, or give it a turn with fresh seafood especially salmon, shrimp or lobster.

Interested in buying the J Vineyards Brut Rose direct? Check it out here.