By Susannah Black
What is a dedicated drinker to do while moving from summer to fall? Jim Livingston of Hartwood Winery suggests that a a chilled Chambourcin Rosé is “naturally good for transitioning” from summer to fall because of its “dry, lighter…. and very refreshing” tasting notes. This rosé, a medium-bodied, fruit-forward, off dry, wine with mild earth tones and herbal notes, will satisfy summer’s dedication to drinkable, light wines while providing the richer, fuller notes of a colder-weather wine. Here are seven wineries in Northern Virginia that offer a noteworthy Chambourcin Rosé.
Dry Mill Winery 2013 Chambourcin Rosé
Winemaker Karen Reed describes this $20 rosé as “reminiscent of summer’s first strawberries,” finishing with noticeable acidity and mild sweetness. / 18195 Dry Mill Road, Leesburg.
Hartwood Winery 2013 Rappahannock Rosé
This $19 French-style rosé won the bronze metal at Finger Lakes International Wine Competition. General Manager Beverly Livingston suggests the “soft cherry-like flavors” and “hints of citrus” are well-suited to “light foods.” / 345 Hartwood Road, Fredericksburg.
Hidden Brook Winery 2010 Rosé
Tasting room manager Ken Strasberg suggests “this is not your typical rosé;” it is “very spicy” and collaborates with a “blend of lemon, blueberry, grapefruit and blackberry.” This $20 wine pairs “great with Thai and Mexican.” / 43301 Spinks Ferry Road, Leesburg
Hiddencroft Vineyards 2011 Chambourcin Rosé
This $19 rosé begins “very fruity and aromatic,” and concludes with “an acidic, tart, watermelon-Jolly-Rancher tasting finish, ” says owner and winemaker Clyde Housel. / 12202 Axline Road, Lovettsville.
Rappahannock Cellars Rosé Fizzy 2013
Balanced with strawberry and raspberry notes, winemaker Theo Smith advises serving this fizzy, off-dry wine for $22.50 “chilled” alongside “spicy” cuisines like Thai and Indian. / 14437 Hume Road, Huntly
Sharp Rock Vineyards NV Chamois Rouge
Jimm East, owner and winemaker, describes this $17 wine as “off dry” with “nice fruitiness,” suggesting its versatility: pair it with “pizza, pasta, picnic.” / 5 Sharp Rock Road, Sperryville
Vint Hill Craft Winery 2013 Rosé of Chambourcin
This rosé, available for $21, includes notes of raspberry, strawberry and watermelon. Vint Hill describes this wine as “very versatile” and “food friendly.” / 7150 Lineweaver Road, Warrenton
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