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Cooper Vineyards-Louisa, Virginia
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Virginia Wine Lover
Once again, it's springtime in Virginia. The vines are beginning to bud, last year's grape harvest is ready to bottle and the wineries are open to welcome visitors. The April calendar is brimming with popular festivals and favorite tasting room events.
Cooper Vineyards in Louisa is our Winery of the Month for April. A visit to Cooper is an absolute must, both for the excellent wines they produce as well as the beauty of the landscape and elegance of the facilities. You'll understand why Cooper received the Visitor's Choice Award for Virginia's Favorite Winery Tasting Room in 2012 and 2013.
Among the many festivals this month are the Clarksville Lake Country Wine Festival on April 12. (Be sure to enter the ticket sweepstakes below.) Taste of Monticello Wine Trail Festival in Charlottesville is on April 12. The weekend of April 26-27 is a busy one with the Bloomin' Wine Fest kicking off the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival, and the Great Grapes Festival at Reston Town Center. Also, Chateau Morrisette's Mountain Adventure Weekend runs Friday through Sunday.
Check the April Events Calendar for more festivals and other special events, tastings and pairings and happenings at the wineries.
Cheers and Happy Spring!
Frank C. Britt
Publisher
Official Virginia Wine Lover
PS: Don't miss the special offering for our readers from the Virginia Wine of the Month Club: New members save 15% for three months! Click on sponsorship at right and enter coupon code Frank15 at check-out.
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SPONSORS
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May 31, 2014
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CHECK OUT OUR WINTER SPECIALS
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TO GET
FREE VIRGINIA WINE GUIDE
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FOR 15% DISCOUNT
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Wine Festival & Winery Consulting,
Winery Marketing, Vendor Finder,
Ad Design...
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COOPER VINEYARDS
For the Perfect Wine Tasting!
A visit to Cooper Vineyards is a must for Virginia wine lovers, both for the excellent wines they produce as well as the beauty of the landscape and elegance of the facilities.
The award-winning "green" Tasting Room officially opened in 2011 and shortly afterward received the coveted LEED Platinum certification, which goes only to construction projects that meet the highest-rated standards in green building technology. Not only are the construction features "green", the aesthetics of the design with the surrounding landscape, create the impression that the wine tasting room is an outgrowth of the vineyard itself, similar to the way that the flavors of wines express
the terroir of the vineyard soils.
Located in Louisa, Cooper Vineyards is nestled amongst rolling hills in a traditional farming
community. It is just a short drive from Richmond, Charlottesville and Fredericksburg. Cooper was licensed as the 53rd Virginia Farm Winery in 1999 and the first block of two acres was planted with Chardonnay, Vidal Blanc and Norton that spring. The original farm covered 36 acres with two natural springs and a pond from which the grapes were irrigated. Over the years, land holdings increased from 36 to 150 acres. Ten different varietals are planted over 15 acres with a goal to achieve quality fruit that will produce world-class Virginia wines.
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Marie's Noche Chocolate Cavity Maker Cake
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WIN A SPRING WEEKEND GETAWAY IN THE BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAINS
 You could be the lucky sweepstakes winner of an idyllic spring weekend in the Blue Ridge Mountains, courtesy of Chateau Morrisette Winery. It's simple to enter (see below). This fabulous Getaway Package includes two nights at Beaver Glen Bed & Breakfast in Meadows of Dan; $85 gift card to use in the Chateau Morrisette Restaurant or Tasting Room, tour of the winery and wine tasting for two in the Tasting Room. Non-Kennel Club members receive a 20% discount off wine purchases. (Value $475) Chateau Morrisette is situated in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of southwest Virginia at Milepost 171.5 along the Blue Ridge Parkway. It sits 3500 feet above sea level and offers spectacular vistas of the New River Valley and Buffalo Mountain. www.thedogs.com ENTER SWEEPSTAKES HERE
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CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS!
Not just one but SEVEN chili recipes were selected by the judges for special recognition. There's quite a variety, but all are delicious. Each winner received four tickets to the James River Wine & Music Festival at Rebec Vineyards on May 31. Click on the name to see the recipe.
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| Doukenie Sweepstakes Winners |
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CONGRATULATIONS
Kelly Chance of Haymarket!
Kelly had the winning entry in Doukénie Winery's "Blending with the Winemaker" sweepstakes in the March newsletter. She and three friends had the opportunity to participate in a hands-on experience in the barrel room, learning the secrets of an excellent blend from winemaker Sebastien Marquet and helping to create Doukénie's next Vintner's reserve.
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APRIL 12, 2014
7th ANNUAL CLARKSVILLE LAKE COUNTRY WINE FESTIVAL
Historic Downtown Clarksville on the Lake
 Relax on historic lawns in downtown and taste over 100 varieties of fine Virginia wines. This year's Lake Country Wine Festival features 14 Virginia wineries and music by Jeff Bailey and Brian Parks. There will be artisan vendors, wine accessories and great pairings of cigars, chocolates, gourmet Virginia peanuts and food by the popular Cooper's Landing Inn/Traveler's Tavern & Lamplighter Restaurant. NEW this year is a beer tent with micro-breweries: Starr Hill, Sunken City & Natty Greene's. Tickets are available online, at the Chamber of Commerce, Cooper's Landing Inn & Traveler's Tavern, Century 21 on the Lake and Galleria on the Lake, A&K Dock Service and Virginia Avenue Mall. Tasting tickets in advance are $20; $25 at the gate, and include souvenir wine glass. Non-taster/DD tickets in advance are $10; $15 at the gate. The festival is an adult event for those 21 years of age and over. Rain or shine. All festival proceeds benefit the Town's Chamber of Commerce and will go towards future projects. Also happening in downtown Clarksville on April 12 is the first Seaplane Splash-in. Admission is free. Click Here for Participating Wineries For more information, contact the Chamber of Commerce at www.clarksvilleva.com or 800-557-5582.
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2014 Governor's Cup Competition
On February 27, Governor Terry McAuliffe awarded the 2014 Virginia Wineries Association's Governor's Cup to the Williamsburg Winery 2010 Adagio, a blended red wine.
According to Williamsburg Winemaker Matthew Meyer's tasting notes, "The 2010 Adagio is a very bold upfront wine with loads of jammy fruit. The blackberries and blueberry notes are accentuated with some elegant mature darker fruit such as figs, dates and prunes. There is a hint of spice (warm cinnamon) with molasses and soy. The earthy notes come across with a touch of nuttiness. The oak is very integrated into the weight of the wine and the tannins are smooth and graceful. The wine has a wonderful finish that lasts for quite awhile."
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Governor McAuliffe presents Governor's Cup to
(l to r) Winemaker Matthew Meyer, Patrick Duffeler II and Patrick Duffeler, owner Williamsburg Winery.
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The top 12 scoring wines of the competition that make up the Governor's Cup Case, were selected from 410 entries of both red and white wines, from 96 wineries. Wines included in the Governor's Cup Case will be used by the Virginia Wine Board for marketing purposes in Virginia, across the country and around the world.
Click Here for Wines in Governor's Cup Case |
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Secretary Haymore Honored
Todd Haymore, Virginia Secretary of Agriculture & Forestry, was named Wine Person of the Year by the Virginia Wineries Association on February 27 at the Governor's Cup Awards. A dedicated proponent of the Virginia wine industry, Haymore has worked in partnership with Virginia's wineries and vineyards to proudly showcase Virginia wines during domestic and international trade mission.
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Governor McAuliffe and Secretary Haymore
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The Secretary facilitated the first commercial shipment of Virginia Wine to China; helped to launch the Virginia Wine Summit, bringing national and international attention to Virginia wine; helped to almost triple the amount of funds placed in the Virginia Wine Promotion Fund for research, education and marketing; and worked with the General Assembly to establish a reimbursable tax credit program for the establishment or expansion of vineyards and wineries. His strategic focus has led to new sales and opportunities for Virginia wineries that will continue the industry's growth in the years to come.
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Barboursville Founder Honored
The President of the Italian Republic conferred that nation's highest award for industry upon Bourboursville Vineyard's founder and owner, Gianni Zonin. The honor is presented to the entrepreneur who has significantly distinguished the nation for the highest quality in manufacture and design. The Zonin family is committed to promoting Italian heritage and tradition all over the world, a tradition that inspired Barboursville's Malvaxia Passito 2008 which has won Best in Class ratings at three recent wine competitions across America.
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VIRGINIA WINE FACTS... DO YOU KNOW?
A Virginia Norton wine was named "best red wine of all nations" at the Vienna World's Fair in 1873. Later, a gold medal for Norton was presented at the Paris World's Fair of 1889 when the Eiffel tower was constructed.
(Virginia Wine Council)
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Riverside International Wine Competition
Call for Entries: For 30 years, the Riverside International Wine Competition has provided consumers and the wine industry with carefully considered results of a blind tasting by professional wine evaluators. A key benefit of this event is to recognize wines regionally and from a wide variety of styles. Deadline for entry is April 9. www.RIWC.net
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2014 Winery Guide
The 2014 Winery Guide is an excellent guide to Virginia wineries and a real resource for spring travelers. This year's updated guide features 250 wineries, cideries and meaderies and includes locations, hours, directions and contact information. The free guide can be ordered from the Virginia Wine Marketing Office at www.virginiawine.org/guide.
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APRIL EVENTS ACROSS VIRGINIA
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April 10: Monticello Cup Awards
The Jefferson Theater (Charlottesville)
Kick-off for the Monticello Wine Trail Festival honors winning wines. Meet the winemakers, taste the wines, gourmet food and music by Rick Alivarez. Black tie optional. Availability limited.
www.monticellowinetrailfestival.com
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April 11: Merlot Vertical Tasting
Democracy Vineyards (Lovingston)
Taste three vintages of Emancipation Merlot. Winemaker will review Merlots from 2010, 2011 and 2012. Two tastings 1 to 2 and 3 to 4.
www.democracyvineyards.com
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April 11: Designed with Wine
868 Estate Vineyards (Purcellville)
A fun experience with local artist Jill Perla guiding you through painting sunflowers on canvas. Glass of wine and art supplies included.
www.868estatevineyards.com
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April 11-13: Wine Release Weekend
Trump Winery (Charlottesville)
Be the first to taste the 2013 white wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, Chardonnay and Rosé. Tastings and sales exclusively at the tasting room. Music 1-4 each day.
www.trumpwinery.com
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 April 12: Taste of Monticello Wine Trail Festival
nTelos Wireless Pavilion (Charlottesville)
Showcasing and selling wines of the Monticello Wine Trail, combining with local and regional musical talent and food vendors for a great day in downtown Charlottesville.
www.monticellowinetrailfestival.com
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April 12: Spring Barrel Tasting
Ingleside Vineyards (Oak Grove)
Be among the first to experience the future of Ingleside straight from the barrel. Includes tour, tasting, wine glass, music and light fare.
www.inglesidevineyards.com
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 April 12: Clarksville Lake Country Wine Festival Clarksville on the Lake (Clarksville) A great day at the lake in historic downtown Clarksville with 17 Virginia wineries and three craft breweries, live music, food and craft vendors. www.clarksvilleva.com |
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April 12: Celebrate Budbreak!
Ankida Ridge Vineyards (Amherst)
A sight to behold...buds bursting open in the vineyard and redbud and dogwood coming to life in the woods. Live music, food truck, wine tastings.
www.ankidaridge.com
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April 12: Beaverdam Wine Festival
John Lewis Thompson Learning Center (Beaverdam)
Local wineries and restaurants, crafters and local businesses vend their wares on the fairgrounds. Antique car "cruise in" and carriage rides.
www.beaverdamwinefestival.org
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April 12: Barrel Tasting
Pollak Vineyards (Greenwood)
A rare opportunity held only once a year in the barrel room. Taste special wines from 2012 vintage, including Meritage, Cabernet Franc Reserve and Mille Fleurs.
www.pollakvineyards.com
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April 12: Golf Between the Vines
Veramar Vineyard ((Berryville)
Calling all golfers. Visit Veramar and play a little golf in the vineyard where a few holes have been set up just for you. Enjoy the view and awards winning wines.
www.veramar.com
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April 12: Nebbiolo Vertical
Breaux Vineyards (Purcellville)
Educational, interactive and fun, sampling the Nebbiolo and discussing with the winemaker. Each session is 90 minutes and includes 3-course lunch. Reservations.
www.breauxvineyards.com
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 April 12: Oyster Festival
DuCard Vineyards (Etlan)
This is a day made in heaven with oysters and crabcakes by Rappahannock, Viognier by DuCard and awesome music by the Retro Rockits.
www.ducardvineyards.com
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April 12: Wine & Brew Fest
Windsor Castle Park (Smithfield)
Virginia's favorite wineries and brews, culinary delights and upscale retail vendors along with a full day of live entertainment in this historic port town.
www.smithfieldvawinebrewfest.com
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 April 12: Blossom to Bottle 5K
Peaks of Otter Winery (Bedford)
Experience the renewal of spring as you run, jog, walk or crawl over the hills and through the blossoms, down in the valley and across the streams. A benefit for the Bedford YMCA Cancer Program. Advance registration.
www.greenhillvineyards.com
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April 12: Spring Winemaker's Dinner
Narmada Winery (Amissville)
Food and wine extravaganza includes Indian feast catered by Rangoli of South Riding paired with Narmada wine. Reservations; limited seating.
www.narmadawinery.com
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April 12: Celebration of the Vine Festival
The Millworks (Midlothian)
Beautiful new location with historic industrial architecture is perfect venue for a day of wine tastings, food and craft vendors. Free shuttle service.
www.acelebrationofthevine.com
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April 12: Lucky Dog Fundraiser
Barrel Oak Winery (Delaplane)
Help support Lucky Dog Animal Rescue. Event includes food, wine, silent auction, dancing and music by The Electeds. Advance tickets suggested.
www.barreloak.com/event/lucky-dog-animal-rescue-fundraiser
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April 12: Mystery Night
Bogati Bodega (Round Hill)
Mystery and mayhem from Clever by Half Productions. Eat and drink and solve the mystery at Spotswood High as the class of 2002 gathers for a reunion. Reservations.
www.glasshousewinery.com
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April 12: Virginia Fly Fishing and Wine Festival
Constitution Park (Waynesboro)
On the banks of the South River, this is the largest fly angling event in the state. Wine tasting of fine Virginia wines and live music included.
www.vaflyfishingfestival.org
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 April 12-13: Masters Chip-Off
Paradise Springs Winery (Clifton)
Annual masters chip off, closest to the pin contest on the par-3 golf hole at the winery. Prizes for the winners. No cost for entry.
www.paradisespringswinery.com
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April 13: Thomas Jefferson's Birthday
Keswick Vineyards (Keswick)
Celebrate the birthday of the author of the Declaration of Independence and our third president. Enjoy a slice of cake along with the regular wine tasting.
www.keswickvineyards.com
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April 15: Tax Day Savings
Keswick Vineyards (Keswick)
Tired of taxes? Enter Keswick's tax-free zone for the day and let them pay the sales tax on any wine purchases you make in the tasting room.
www.keswickvineyards.com
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About Events:
As our information comes from many sources, we recommend you verify dates and times, as well as costs and reservations that may be required. (We are not responsible for incorrect or inaccurate information.)
If you would like to submit an event, send details (what, where and when, as well as contact information) to info@vawinelover.com no later than the 10th of the month prior to the event.
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The Governor's Cup Wine Awards were held on February 27 in Richmond at the John Marshall Hotel. Representatives and supporters of Virginia's wine industry were in attendance and enjoyed tastings of award winning wines.
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© 2006 Britt Marketing & Public Relations
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Official Virginia Wine Lover™ is not affiliated with or published by Virginia Wine Lover Magazine
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