Jefferson Vineyards Wins Twice
We are deeply honored to have been recognized with two of the six top best wines in this year's Monticello Cup Competition. Jefferson Vineyards won one of the top three best white wines for its 2019 Chardonnay Reserve. It also won one of the top three best red wines in the red wine category for its 2019 Merlot Reserve. We are humbled to have won a top place in both the red and white categories - the only winery to have received this distinction in the competition.
Every year the Monticello Wine Trail, a gathering of some thirty-three wineries in the Monticello American Viticultural Area, hosts the Monticello Cup Competition. The competition selects the top wines produced. Though a small competition, this region represents some of Virginia’s most consistently and highly awarded wineries - making this win even more special.
About The Wines
Our 2019 Chardonnay Reserve is an elegantly balanced wine and a winemaker’s favorite white wine. Light toast and spice are greeted with flavors of pear and apple. This well-integrated wine finishes with citrus notes and great length. It was aged nine months in oak and drinks beautifully alone or paired with savory dishes of grilled shellfish and roasted white meats. We are delighted that this beautiful Chardonnay is receiving the attention it deserves.
Since releasing our 2019 Merlot Reserve two months ago, it has already garnered two gold medals. The first gold was awarded by the 2022 Virginia Governor’s Cup Competition. This wine greets your nose with currant, vanilla, and toasted fig. The medium tannins and earthy qualities on the palate are balanced with black cherry and black tea notes. The finish is long with black fruit. Our 2019 Merlot Reserve pairs with soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert or lean meats like beef or pork tenderloin with butter sauce.
Blessed with a rich Jeffersonian wine history, we are overjoyed to be a part of this winemaking vision. To do so with Chardonnay and Merlot makes it more special as these varietals now join the highly awarded ranks of our Viognier, Meritage, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot wine programs.
Many congratulations to our winemaking and vineyard team, who continue to experiment and learn from this land. A land where Thomas Jefferson and Philip Mazzei once cultivated Virginia’s dream of a winemaking endeavor that has become a reality today.
For a limited time you can order a special bundle of these wines with free shipping and a 10% discount. Click here to order.
Our winemaker, Chris Ritzcovan (left) and Tasting Room Manager, Ashe Stone (right) share the cups honoring the best three reds and best three whites.