Recently, I was fortunate to be invited to a collaborative brew day with 14 beer brewers from Loudoun county. (Our hops were used in some of this beer for the "dry hop" process.) I had some great conversations with numerous brewers about hop growing and the similarities between brewing beer and making wine. The most thought provoking conversations for me were about our growing industries and how we need to monitor our growth.

As alcoholic beverage producers, we need to recognize that as flavorful, artistic and enjoyable as our products are, alcohol can be an addictive and sometimes abused substance. As the popularity of the wineries, distilleries, breweries and cideries increase, we want to promote responsibility among our customers and fellow businesses.

To that end, some things the businesses do on a small scale are training our staff to remain diligent to prevent underage drinking as well as over consumption, having a designated driver program, serving snacks or food to balance the alcohol, and planning and booking events that are more based on education than consumption. On a grander scale, we actively promote other businesses and activities as additional venue options in the region. Farm tours, antique stores, public parks, restaurants and roadside stands complement the experience of the country winery or brewery visit.

In Loudoun County last month, we had a well respected county supervisor resign his position due to his challenges with alcohol consumption. It is a loss for many, including himself and his family. As our industry grows, we cannot deny our challenges and need to keep focused on our responsibility to the community.

This has been a community service message; have a nice day.

Fabbioli hops

 

 

Earthy, rich, and full of flavor, nothing says fall like Fabblioli Cellars' 2011 Tannat. This full-bodied red has a deep burgundy color and complex layers of aromas and flavors. Scents of plums and raspberries fill the glass as the wine opens with trails of spice, smoke and leather. As the wine lingers in the mouth, robust flavors of pomegranate, plum, and vanilla come through with a warm lingering finish, making it an ideal wine for the month of October.