Win or Lose Trump Will Still Booze... At His Family Owned Winery
By Kimberly Woodcock
As I approached this building (pictured above) all my previous expectations went out the window. I didn’t know whether I was walking into a dojo and about to perform martial arts, or if I was about to walk into a winery and have a five-star wine tasting. To my delight, it was the latter.
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The main room, referred to as the tasting room, is crafted with exquisite nature. The walls are lofty which creates a spacious feel in this room. The exterior of this building misled me. I did not expect this room to be so luxurious. The low hanging chandelier illuminated the space and contributed to its high class feel.
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Upon entering, I was promptly greeted by an amiable middle aged woman who was willing to answer any questions our group had. She explained that there was indoor and outdoor wine tasting. Tastings are $8 and include a signature take away wineglass.
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We ended up purchasing a bottle of the 2014 Meritage red wine for $20 (see photo to right). It was well worth the investment. We sat outside on the patio which was covered by an expansive awning. There are tables for group seating and social gatherings as well as chase lounges for relaxing. When temperatures are nice, this patio area is an ideal place to relax. It has seating for about 100 people but it seemed like it was only half full on a Saturday at 3 p.m. which was surprising.
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The wine is yummy and the food is even better. The cheese platter was delicious. It is paired with various spreads and jellies which is harmonious with the wine (see below). This platter is large enough to feed almost five people.
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The photo shown above also shows the 2009 Sparkling Blanc de Blanc ($26). I did not order this, but my friends did and said that doing so is in everybody’s best interest. This was one of the bottles that a few other tourists at this winery were thrilled about as well.
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After we enjoyed these commodities, we took our glasses and relaxed out in a row of Adirondack chairs that lined the overlook on the far side of a large field. These chairs face the entire 1300-acre vineyard. This view is exceptional. No photo could give this sublime landscape the justice it deserves. I recommend making this trek so you can ravish over the scenery, like I did. This area is a bit windy and does tend to get chiller specifically in the fall, so dress accordingly.
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I’m no wine guru, but the atmosphere of this winery is well worth the hour drive from Harrisonburg. It will leave you with great memories. You may not get to see Donald Trump or a Dojo, like I expected, but it is not even a question that this winery will suffice in place of either of those options.
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Fun Fact: This distinguished winery was initially owned by 2016 presidential candidate Donald Trump. It has been passed down the family hierarchy and is now owned by Eric Trump, Donald’s son.
For more details, visit:
Address:
355 Albemarle House Drive
Charlottesville, VA 22902
434-977-4001
