Episode 38: Jefferson Vineyards

Jefferson Vineyards
Chris Ritzcovan & Attila Woodward

We are going back to the beginning of Virginia viticulture to explore the history and legacy of Thomas Jefferson and Phillip Mazzei.  My guests this week are Attila Woodward, the co-owner of Jefferson Vineyards and Chris Ritzcovan, the winemaker at Jefferson.

The Woodward family has been at the helm of Jefferson Vineyards for three generations. Attila shares his family’s history, stewardship and preservation of the iconic property since the 1930’s. Attila and Chris share what it’s like to walk in the footsteps of Jefferson and Mazzei to create a new generation of viticulture in the heart of Virginia wine country. Plus, we are talking about Jefferson’s extensive wine portfolio, award-winning selections, 35 years of winemaking for the Woodward family and future plans for the new generation of leadership at the estate. Enjoy the show!

Visit Jefferson Vineyards

Award-Winning Wines
Courtesy: Jefferson Vineyards

Tasting Room Hours (As of April 1, 2017)

Daily: 11am-6pm
Tasting Fee: $12

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Episode 37: Katie DeSouza, Casanel Vineyards

Casanel Vineyards
Katie DeSouza
Katie DeSouza, Casanel Vineyards

We are exploring Casanel Vineyards & Winery in Loudon County, Virginia on this week’s edition of Crystal Palate’s Wine Country. It’s a family owned and operated vineyard & winery in the heart of Leesburg in the Middleburg AVA.The winery opened for business in 2008 and specializes in small lot hand crafted wines.

Casanel winemaker Katie Desouza is my guest this week. From construction to agriculture, Katie will share her family’s journey into the Virginia winemaking business. As a young, talented female winemaker, Katie also discusses what it like to thrive as a woman in a male-dominated industry.

We also talk about Casanel’s vast portfolio including some unique selections such as Carménère that pays homage to her father’s roots and a classic Port offering. They are also committed to preserving the rich heritage of The Real American Grape by offering a Sparkling Norton. Many of the offerings are only available at the winery, so make sure to visit Katie soon! Listen in to hear my interview with the lovely Katie DeSouza.

Visit Casanel Vineyards & Winery 

17956 Canby Rd
Leesburg VA 20175
540-571-1776

Tasting Room Hours

Thursday: 2pm-6pm
Friday-Monday: 11am-6pm
Tuesday & Wednesday: CLOSED

Follow Casanel Vineyards 
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Episode 36: Monticello Wine Trail Festival Preview

Monticello Wine Trail Festival

The Monticello Wine Trail Festival has become the premiere spring wine event in Central Virginia. The festival features three fun-filled days of exploring the very best wine and food the region has to offer. From exclusive tours with the winemaker to a sparkling brunch and a grand tasting event, this festival offers something for everyone. Stephen Barnard, the winemaker from Keswick Vineyards, joins me in studio on this week’s edition of Crystal Palate’s Wine Country to talk about the festival. He’ll also share some of the history behind the Monticello Wine Trail.

Event Dates: April 13 – April 15, 2017

Participating Vineyards and Wineries
Afton Mountain Vineyards, Barboursville Vineyards, Blenheim Vineyards, Burnley Vineyards, Cardinal Point Vineyard & Winery, Chestnut Oak Vineyard, Delfosse Vineyards and Winery, Early Mountain Vineyards, First Colony Winery, Flying Fox Vineyard, Gabriele Rausse Winery, Glass House Winery, Grace Estate Winery, Horton Vineyards, Jefferson Vineyards, Keswick Vineyards, Kilaurwen Winery, King Family Vineyards, Loving Cup Vineyard and Winery, Michael Shaps Wineworks, Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards, Pollak Vineyards, Reynard Florence Vineyard, Stinson Vineyards, Stone Mountain Vineyards, Trump Winery, Veritas Vineyard & Winery, White Hall Vineyards, and Wisdom Oak Winery.

More Info: Monticello Wine Trail Festival

Episode 35: Jason Knight, Saudé Creek Vineyards

Saude Creek

We are taking the show on the road this week for a visit to Saudé Creek Vineyards in Lenexa, Virginia.   Saudi Creek is a member of Virginia’s Colonial Wine Trail which is also home to Williamsburg Winery, New Kent Winery and James River Cellars. The Colonial Wine Trail runs along the I-64 corridor east of Richmond.

The property is owned by John Britt and Jason Knight. Jason also serves as the winemaker for Saudé Creek. On the program Jason shares his vision for making wine in the Commonwealth. Currently, they are growing many varietals including Vidal Blanc, Traminette, Viognier, Petit Manseng, Petit Verdot and Chambourcin. They are also sourcing grapes from other properties to add more diversity to their wine portfolio.

Like so many places in Virginia, this land has a lot of historical significance. Jason tells us about the connection between our first president George Washington and his property. Plus, we’ll taste his award winning Cabernet and discuss future plans for the vineyard and winery on this edition of Crystal Palate’s Wine Country.

Visit Saudé Creek

6230 Cooks Mill Rd
Lanexa, VA

Tasting Room Hours:

Mon, Wed, Thurs, Sat & Sun: 11am-6pm
Fri: 11am-9pm
Closed on Tuesdays

Episode 34: Patricia Hodson, The Retreat at Veritas

Retreat at Veritas
Retreat at Veritas
Patricia Hodson

Veritas Vineyards & Winery is a popular spot in the heart of Central Virginia wine country. The first vines were planted in 1999. Over the past two decades, the Hodson family has created a thriving businss and a cozy getaway for visitors near and far.

Veritas has a beautiful rustic tasting room complete with cozy leather sofas and a crackling fireplace. The award-winning wines and breathtaking views are the perfect respite from a long week. The property is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s a vibrant wedding destination and they also host the very popular Starry, Starry nights summer concert series. But did you know that you can also enjoy a luxurious epicurean yoga retreat at Veritas?

To learn more about the other side of Veritas we are talking with Patricia Hodson all about The Retreat at Veritas and the importance of unplugging from all the distractions of life to nourish your mind, body and soul with yoga, hiking, award-winning wine and fabulous food.