Wine Garden Inn’s renowned cellars are a treasure trove of unexpected delights. Beyond the familiar Cabernet Sauvignons and Chardonnays, our expert vintners have meticulously curated a collection showcasing the true diversity of the vine. From little-known grape varieties to unconventional blends, these hidden gems beckon the curious oenophile to venture off the beaten path and discover the sheer breadth of flavors that wine can offer.
Rare Grape Varieties
The world of wine is vast, and many remarkable grape varieties remain obscure to all but the most seasoned enthusiasts. At Wine Garden Inn, we take pride in bringing these overlooked gems to the forefront. One such rarity is Arandell, a cold-hardy hybrid developed by Cornell University. This uniquely earthy and savory red, with its hints of tobacco, has earned prestigious accolades, including a gold medal at the Shenandoah Wine Cup. Its resilience to challenging conditions makes Arandell a fitting ambassador for the terroir of our region.
Another unexpected treasure in our cellars is Saparavi, a bold red variety native to Georgia (the country, not the state). This grape’s deep color and robust tannins lend themselves beautifully to our acclaimed St. Ruth blend, where they harmonize with the elegant Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The result is a wine that captures the essence of the Templeton Gap, our coolest American Viticultural Area, with its complex layers of earth and fruit.
Experimental Wine Styles
While rare grapes captivate the palate, our winemakers also delight in pushing the boundaries of traditional winemaking. One such visionary is Reggie Leonard, co-founder of the Oenoverse wine club. Reggie’s “Parallax Project” showcases the art of blending, using a mix of vinifera and hybrid grapes to craft two distinctly different wines – a juicy red and a vibrant white – from nearly identical ingredients. This innovative approach challenges preconceptions about what a wine “should” taste like, inviting the curious sipper to explore uncharted sensory territory.
Another Wine Garden Inn exclusive is the vermouth from Artemisia Farm & Vineyard. Traditionally viewed as merely a cocktail mixer, these aromatized, fortified wines are finding a new audience as stand-alone sipping delights. Artemisia’s Mentha – a mint-rhubarb aperitif made with the traminette grape – offers a refreshing, herbal complexity that defies categorization. It’s a true testament to the boundless creativity flowing through our region’s wineries.
Distinctive Flavor Profiles
While rarities and experiments captivate the adventurous, Wine Garden Inn also celebrates the unique interpretations of more familiar grape varieties. Take, for instance, the Merlots from Virginia’s Chateau O’Brien. Eschewing the heavy-handed approach often associated with this Right Bank Bordeaux staple, their stunning 2019 vintage showcases a graceful balance of earth, fruit, and spice – a far cry from the jammy stereotypes. Similarly, the Cabernet Franc from Briedé Family Vineyards combines an Old World sensibility with the vibrant, sun-kissed character of our Shenandoah terroir, resulting in a wine that is both sophisticated and approachable.
Across our collection, you’ll find these sorts of delightful surprises – wines that defy expectations and transport you to unexpected sensory realms. Whether it’s the bright, aromatic Grüner Veltliner from Arterra Wines, the Zweigelt’s juicy exuberance, or the Blaufränkisch’s savory complexity, each bottle tells a unique story of the land and the visionaries who coax these hidden gems from the vine.
Renowned Wine Collection
At the heart of Wine Garden Inn’s reputation lies our meticulously curated collection, a testament to the dedication and expertise of our vintners. Sourced from both established and up-and-coming producers, our cellars offer a comprehensive exploration of Virginia’s terroir, from the lush Piedmont to the wind-swept slopes of the Shenandoah. Whether you’re seeking a crisp, mineral-driven Chardonnay or a robust, age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon, our knowledgeable staff is eager to guide you on a journey of discovery.
Cellar Exploration Experience
For the true wine aficionado, we offer a one-of-a-kind Cellar Exploration Experience. Led by our resident sommelier, this intimate tour delves into the stories behind our most unique and limited offerings. Guests will have the opportunity to sample rare vintages, discuss the nuances of each microclimate and soil profile, and even participate in a structured tasting of experimental blends. It’s an immersive experience that celebrates the art and science of winemaking, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the riches that lie within our cellar doors.
Specialty Bottlings
In addition to our extensive collection, Wine Garden Inn is proud to offer a selection of specialty bottlings, crafted in collaboration with our most innovative partners. These limited-release wines showcase the collaborative spirit that defines our region, where visionary winemakers come together to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
One such example is the Parallax Project, a joint venture between Reggie Leonard, Lance Lemon, and the Jordan brothers of Commonwealth Crush. By blending vinifera and hybrid grapes in unexpected ways, they’ve created a pair of wines – “What’s This?” and “What’s That?” – that embody the art of the unexpected. It’s a testament to the creative energy that permeates our industry, and a invitation for you to embrace the joy of the unfamiliar.
Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious newcomer, Wine Garden Inn’s renowned cellars promise to unveil a world of delightful surprises. From rare grapes to experimental styles, each bottle tells a story of passion, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. So, come explore with us – let your palate be your guide as you uncover wine’s hidden gems, right here at the heart of Virginia’s vibrant wine country. Visit Wine Garden Inn to plan your tasting adventure today.