Veritas Vineyards and Winery: Celebrating 25 Years of Winemaking in Virginia.
I’ve been to Virginia Wine Country a couple of times now, and despite the sometimes arduous trek from New York, the trip is always worth it. Once you arrive, you’re immediately charmed by the beautiful scenery, the welcoming atmosphere of the estates, and the genuine hospitality. It’s easy to see why so many people, from DC escapees to local enthusiasts, flock to enjoy the bounty of Virginia wines.
Although, I hadn’t yet had the pleasure of visiting Veritas Vineyards and Winery, they recently kindly sent me some of their wines. Moreover, I was so touched by their story. It all began with a dream. They state on their website: “Patricia saw the potential in the land and planted several acres of grapes with a wish and a prayer.” . The dream was carried forward with hard work and unwavering dedication. “By 2001, they had their first vintage ready for production, and Andrew had tried his hand at winemaking with great success.” The hard working american way to pursuing wine dreams is recurrent in California but not so common on the northeast (until recently). Hence, I’ll have to make my way back to Virginia soon to experience Veritas firsthand. In the meantime, check out the details below on this impressive winery.
Veritas Vineyards & Winery is nestled in the scenic Monticello wine region of Virginia. Inspired by her dreams, her endeavor is a testament to the passion and vision of Andrew and Patricia Hodson. Furthermore, what started in 1999 as a simple horse and cattle farm has evolved into a celebrated winery producing a diverse array of wines. With over 50 acres of vineyards, Veritas Vineyards has become a leading name in the Virginia wine scene. They are consistently crafting wines that express the unique terroir of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Leading Veritas’ winemaking team is Emily Hodson, a talented winemaker with over 15 harvests of experience. Emily’s approach centers on allowing the inherent qualities of each grape varietal to shine. By blending traditional practices with modern technology, she crafts wines that are both expressive and harmonious. Her commitment to excellence has garnered Veritas Vineyards and Winery numerous awards, including gold medals in the esteemed Virginia Governor’s Cup.
Veritas Vineyards and Winery continues to innovate and elevate the standards of winemaking in Virginia. Assistant winemaker Elliott Watkins (married to the Hodson’s youngest daughter Chloe) heads the winery’s sparkling wine program. He is employing the traditional method to create sparkling wines that rival those of Champagne, France . As Veritas celebrates 25 years of winemaking excellence, it’s clear that this family-owned winery is destined for continued success, sharing its vibrant wines with local communities and beyond.
The Veritas Reserve 2022 is a special release commemorating the winery’s 25th anniversary. This refined red blend exemplifies Veritas Vineyards and Winery’s unwavering commitment to producing wines of exceptional quality. Crafted from 50% Cabernet Franc, 29% Merlot, and 21% Petit Verdot, the Reserve 2022 showcases the rich character of these varietals cultivated in the Monticello AVA.
With its deep garnet hue and alluring aromas of black fruit and leather, the Veritas Reserve 2022 is a wine that engages the senses. On the palate, it delivers balance of blackberry flavors. The tannins are refined and a the finish lingers with nuances of caramel and mocha. Aged for 16 months in French oak, this wine is drinking beautifully now. It possesses the structure to age gracefully for years to come.
Scintilla exemplifies Veritas Vineyards and Winery’s dedication to crafting world-class sparkling wine. This Brut sparkling wine, made entirely from Chardonnay grapes, is produced using the traditional method. It results in a wine with delicate bubbles and a persistent effervescence that is impressive. Scintilla offers a refreshing palate and elegant finish. Bright notes of lemon, green apple, and pear, accented by subtle hints of yeast and toasted brioche.
With its crisp acidity and clean finish, Scintilla is a versatile sparkling wine suitable for any occasion. It’s a testament to the skill and artistry of the Veritas Vineyards and Winery winemaking team. It demonstrates the potential for producing exceptional sparkling wine in Virginia.
So, if you find yourself yearning for a scenic escape and exceptional wines, consider a visit to Veritas Vineyards & Winery. With its rich history, commitment to quality, and stunning location, Veritas promises an unforgettable Virginia wine experience. I know I can’t wait to make the trip!
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