From the rolling hills of Virginia’s Monticello region and internationally acclaimed winemaker Boela Gerber, Appalachian Passage Red is a Bordeaux-style blend that honors the state’s winemaking heritage while proving its potential as a serious American wine producer. With plum, cedar and exotic spice notes, it’s perfect alongside roasted root vegetables and herb-crusted pork.

Virginia’s winemaking history predates its statehood, with production first documented shortly after the British established colonies there in the early 1600s. (In fact, in 1619, every male household was required to plant 10 vines for the purpose of growing and making wine!)

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

Given his love of Bordeaux and his 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 winery. Like most Virginia wineries, the estate’s production is anchored by Bordeaux varieties Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Merlot—all three of which go into this bottling.

Aged 10 months in neutral French oak, it opens with inviting aromas of black currant, ripe red cherry and a touch of vanilla. Medium-bodied and structured, the palate offers similar flavors, layered with more red fruit and subtly sweet spice. Finely integrated tannins provide a smooth, polished texture.

Already delicious, the wine has a good line of acidity that ensures it’d also be fantastic after short-term cellaring. Just don’t wait too long to order—this wine is made in tiny quantities and our stocks are strictly limited.