Celebrate the Grape During Virginia Wine Month Statewide Events & Festivities Planned Throughout October

October 4, 2004
Contact: Nan Johnson, Virginia Wine Office,
(804) 371-7685

RICHMOND, VA – October is Wine Month in Virginia so now is the perfect time to plan a trip to one or more of Virginia's nearly 90 wineries. Can't decide when or where to visit? Virginia's winery information is available on the Internet at www.virginiawines.org or visitors can call 1-800-VA-VINES (800-828-4637) to request a complimentary guide featuring maps, event information and phone numbers.

"The grape harvest is still underway in many parts of Virginia so October is an especially good time to visit our wineries," according to White Hall Vineyard's Antony Champ, president of The Virginia Winegrowers Association and member of The Virginia Wine Board. Special wine month events and promotions are offered at Virginia wineries and retailers throughout the month he says.

From wine festivals, harvest festivals and fall foliage celebrations to barrel tastings, vineyard tours and special food and wine pairing events, October has it all for fall 2004! Wine lovers and history buffs alike are sure to enjoy a trip through any of Virginia's six specifically designated grape growing (viticultural) regions: the Eastern Shore, Monticello, the North Fork of the Roanoke, the Northern Neck (George Washington's Birthplace), Rocky Knob and the Shenandoah Valley.

Virginia ranks fifth among Vinifera wine growing states and 10th nationally in commercial grape production. In 2003, producers harvested 3,600 tons of commercial grapes of which Chardonnay represented 34 percent. The top three grape varieties in Virginia are Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. For further information, visit our website at www.virginiawines.org.

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Editors Please Note: Photos Are Available Upon Request