Exploring the Beauty of the Wineries in Virginia

Virginia wineries have made the United States a modern wine country producing some of the best wines in the world. The European wine grapes introduced to Virginia 30 years ago have proven to be very successful in this winemaking state. The wineries in Virginia are the 7th largest in the United States, with over 150 current active wineries.

The wineries in Virginia are well known for being some of the most scenic places in the United States. Several luxury hotels have opened around these beautiful Virginian wineries, adding an additional attraction for wine-loving tourists. These vast vineyards are also used as reception sites for weddings in part because of their beauty and romantic atmosphere.

Wine tasting events are often held in Washington, DC wineries promoting the wine drinking culture. There is no doubt that Washington DC wineries produce some of the best wines in the world. These wines can cost up to $300 per bottle based on the vintage and unique taste.

Studies have shown that grapes do not do necessarily grow well in normal conditions in which other crops thrive. In other words the availability of ample moisture, rich soils and other conditions do not favor the ability of grapes used to produce strong wines. If the above conditions are met, certain wines will concentrate their energy on the development of the leaves, shoots and the roots leaving the seeds succulent. When fermented these fruits do not result in strong wines.

How is wine made in the wineries in Virginia? First, grape farmers must harvest ripe grapes. It is recommended that these grapes should not be left to ripen to long, as that will result in bad wine. True winemakers know the exact time of year when the weather is perfect for harvesting grapes. Even though these grapes have been handpicked over the years, machines have been introduced to help reduce production costs. Once picked, harvesters sort the best grapes to use for their wines. Once this is done, the grapes are ready for fermentation, which is done in distinct ways depending on the type of wine the winery intends to make.

In making red wine, the grapes are fermented with their skins while in making the white wine; the grapes are pressed to extract their juice, which is then fermented. Once the process of fermentation is done, the resulting wine is bottled, packed and sold.

This article was written by John Spare, Communications Specialist at Big Cork Vineyards.