Fermented and aged in both oak and stainless steel, Appalachian Passage Viognier is a harmony of floral and orchard fruit flavors with a creamy-soft mouthfeel. Crafted by acclaimed winemaker Boela Gerber, it really shows off Virginia’s fine wine potential.

The state’s winemaking history stretches all the way back to the 1600s, with production first documented shortly after the British established colonies. (In fact, in 1619, every male household was required to plant 10 vines for the purpose of growing and making wine!)

Today, Virginia is one of the largest winegrape producers in the country, with more than 4,000 acres of vines growing 30-plus types of grapes across its eight designated wine regions. Named after the estate of Thomas Jefferson, the Monticello area is one of its most prestigious, and it’s where you’ll find Boela making magic at Southwest Mountains Vineyards.

Given his deep affection for French wine and enthusiasm for terroir, it couldn’t be a better place for him to have landed after a tenure at South Africa’s acclaimed Groot Constantia estate. Like most Virginia wineries, the property’s production is anchored by Bordeaux varieties, however a handful of grapes native to other parts of France—like Viognier—are also cultivated to wild success.

The proof will be in your glass. Sourced from vines that are just five years old, the wine aged eight long months on its lees before being blended and bottled. It’ll welcome you with aromas of honeysuckle, ripe pear and apple that carry into the palate and get layered with tones of custard tones and citrus notes. Medium-bodied and supple, it has a bright acidity that ensures the wine is refreshing through the finish.

Delicious on its own, it would surely sing next to a wide variety of dishes, including roast chicken, cheese boards galore or even Indian takeout. Just don’t wait too long to order—this wine is made in tiny quantities and our stocks are strictly limited.