History of Virginia Wine

Join Nate Walsh for an exploration of where Virginia wine came from, and where it might be headed. Virginia winemaking history begins with early Jamestown colonists and their ambitious—often ill-fated—attempts to tame the wild landscape. From legislative mandates to grow vinifera to the experimental spirit of Thomas Jefferson at Monticello, we’ll discuss how the “birthplace of American wine” struggled, evolved, and eventually triumphed (in our opinion).

At this seated tasting event, we’ll work our way through the transition from the early cultivation of indigenous North American grapes to the integration of European varietals, the difficulty posed by phylloxera, and the rise of the “Virginia Claret” —once declared the best in the world.

As we trace the timeline, we will also, of course, taste examples of the wide diversity of what is produced here, and talk about where things might be headed in the future. Between the growth of hybrids, Virginia’s Norton, and our success with vinifera, Virginia has a lot going for it. 

$60 / person ($50 for WWS members)

In order to keep the event comfortable and intimate, seating will be limited.  21+ only.  Food will be available for those with the munchies.  Yes, you will have to taste Norton.