Virginia

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Barboursville

Our Story

Barboursville Vineyards is Virginia’s pioneer wine estate, the first dedicated to cultivating European vitis vinifera varietals in the state. Established in 1976 by Gianni Zonin, a 7th-generation winegrower from Gambellara, Italy, this vineyard stands as Zonin’s exclusive winemaking venture outside of Italy. His family’s enterprise, Casa Vinicola Zonin, has been rooted in viticulture since 1821.

Nestled at the heart of an extensive 18th-century Virginia plantation, Barboursville Vineyards spans 900 acres, with only 176 acres of vineyards planted on red clay generated by volcanic soils from the Blue Ridge Mountains. The rest of the land is virgin forest, pasture, lakes, streams, wetlands and meadows left undeveloped to help promote biodiversity.

Winemaker and General Manager Luca Paschina has been with Barboursville since 1990. He has a degree in oenology from Instituto Umberto in Alba and oversees all day-to-day vineyard operations.

Wines

Cabernet Franc

Barboursville Vineyards

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Virginia

VA is famed for producing elegant and age worthy Cabernet Franc and Barboursville’s is no exception. Their vineyards sit on soils comprised of sedimentary rock of volcanic origin with greenstone that is rich in iron and magnesium. Fermented in stainless steel and aged for about 1 year on older French barrique. Ripe berries, plums, and gorgeous minerality.

Malvaxia Paxxito

Barboursville Vineyards

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Virginia

Moscato Ottonel and Vidal are harvested young to capture the fruit's acidity. Once harvested, the grapes are taken through the traditional Passito method - air dried and naturally raisinized on racks open to outdoor ventilation. This lengthy process concentrates flavors and sugars. A long natural fermentation takes place in older barriques where the wine will age for almost another two years. But can be enjoyed for the next 20 years or more. Luxurious notes of apricots, honey and marzipan.

Rating

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2019 - 92 Points - Wine Advocate

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Nebbiolo Reserve

Barboursville Vineyards

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Virginia

Nebbiolo has become a premier varietal for Barboursville since their first vintage in 1998. This multifaceted and layered hidden gem in their portfolio is meant for long aging. Fermented in stainless steel and aged for about 1 year in mostly used French barrique. Aromas of violets with dark berries and herbal forest floor notes.

Octagon

Barboursville Vineyards

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Virginia

Octagon is Barboursville’s highest expression of their European derivation and inspiration. This wine has garnered them the most accolades, locally and internationally. It is a wine of unquestioned distinction and longevity. Always a blend, and the best of what Mother Nature gives them in that vintage. An old-world style wine, beautifully balanced, with baked dark fruits and a hint of minerality.

Rating

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2020 - 93 Points - James Suckling

Rating

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2019 - 92 Points - Wine Advocate

View Facts & Resources

Pinot Grigio

Barboursville Vineyards

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Virginia

Harvested promptly when ripe to conserve its structuring acidity, the Pinot Grigio is considered a very food friendly white wine. Fermented and aged in stainless steel to preserve its tropical notes and salinity. Romantic and youthful - a true expression of Italian winemaking style. A dry style with notes of pear and pineapple.

Sauvignon Blanc

Barboursville Vineyards

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Virginia

Barboursville features vineyards planted with three clonal varieties of Sauvignon Blanc, selected from New Zealand for their adaptability to warm climates. Fermented and aged in stainless steel with extended lees contact, this wine captures vibrant aromas and a refreshing palate, offering a firm body and lively food compatibility.

Vermentino

Barboursville Vineyards

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Virginia

Native to maritime regions of Liguria, Corsica, and Sardinia, Vermentino has adapted wonderfully to the warm Virginia climate. Fermented and aged in stainless steel, under continuous lees contact for about 7 months. Vermentino loves practically any preparation of shellfish and fish. Citrus -forward aromas and flavors, with zesty minerality, and finesse.

Viognier

Barboursville Vineyards

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Virginia

The first in Virginia to abandon both malolactic fermentation and the use of oak while making Viognier, Barboursville wanted to protect its floral opulence and luscious flavors while allowing its natural acidity to shine through. Passion fruit, citrus, herbal.