More Insights from Jeffords on Virginia Wineries & Wines
Mark Norman
Lifetime Wine Lover, mostly retired wine professional. Future Centenarian living a focused life! Experimenting in nutritional farming for the purpose of living a healthy lifestyle, fulfilling a vision and a passion!
Although I have no where near the audience that Jeffords has, I too know what it is like to make a mad dash through a wine region trying to absorb all that I can.
Maybe his constant exposure to wine regions around the world gives him a better understanding but I find it a bit difficult to be accurate in a description while on the run. And yes he was visiting here 8 weeks ago and probably has done much homework before and after.
I think my main complaint is the comparison of Virginia grapes and wines to other regions...yes....of course...unfortunately if the label says "XXXXXXXX" how does it compare with the same wines from different regions.
It doesn't compare...if one does buy into terrior (and I do believe that Jeffords does) then the weather and soil of Virginia makes Virginia wines unique..as are the wines from every region in the world...and let's not forget the winemakers themselves...they add touches that are unique....and the age of the vines...one can go on and on.
Jeffords picks some outstanding wines to rate...and yes...I know that it is his job and the people who read Decanter expect to see a number but I'd rather try to find a bottle to taste...and see if I like it? Does my wife like it?
I am so happy to see Virginia wines get the attention of a famous international wine critic...but frankly I KNOW our best is yet to come!
If you have never tasted a Virginia wine please come visit...winemakers like Emily Hodson are making very good wines!