Explore the Different Wine Varieties at Washington DC Wineries

Washington wines are becoming increasingly popular. In fact, Washington now ranks second only to California in the US in terms of wine production. There are more than 43,000 acres of vineyards in the area as of 2011, and upwards of 740 wineries export their bottles to more than 40 countries around the globe. Some wine related activities can be found in western Washington, but the majority of wine production is centered in the eastern half part of the district.

The wines produced near Washington, DC are known for their bright fruity flavors and their crisp acidity. Red wines produced here lean towards riper flavors, with noticeable oak and tannins and fairly high alcohol levels. Wine critics have described Washington’s wines as having fresh acidity, intense fruit flavors, and deep coloring. The Cabernets and Merlots in particular exhibit lush texture and concentrated berry flavors; a sip might remind you of wild fruits that grow the Pacific Northwest—boysenberries, blackberries, raspberries, and cherries. The best bottles coming out of Washington combine the polish and structure of old-world French wines with the freshness and ripeness of California wines.

Washington produces many different wines, from mass-produced bottles to rarer boutique wines. The state produces a full spectrum of choices, including sparkling, rosé, fruit, rosé, still, rosé, and dessert wines. It is known for its award-wining Cabernet Sauvignon wines. More than 80 varieties of grape are grown here, with the primary grapes for wine production coming from Vitis vinifera. Washington produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Riesling, Syrah, and Merlot. Plantings of Grenache, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Pinot gris, Semillon, Tempranillo, Sauvignon blanc, Viognier, Chenin blanc, Barbera, Gewürztraminer, Petite Sirah, Nebbiolo,Pinot noir, Zinfandel, and Sangiovese can also be found. As of 2006, over 17,000 acres are dedicated to red wine varieties with the most prevalent being Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc. Over 13,000 acres are dedicated to white wine varieties, including Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon blanc, and Gewürztraminer.

About the Author:

This article was written by Big Cork Vineyards. They have the best quality of flavorful and aromatic red & white wines at their wineries. They offer a wide variety of delicious red 7 white wine categories like merlot wine, wine chardonnay, malbec wine, syrah wine and many more.

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