Virginia has been in the wine production business longer than one might think. The first experiment with wine in Virgina occurred in 1607 at the first settlement of Jamestown. In the recent past, Virginia wines have gained acclaim. East coast wines are now competing with California wines as vigntners better learn how to cultivate wine in the east.
The first Virginia wine was made in 1607 at the first settlement of Jamestown. This wine was not satisfactory. The settlers tried for several years to produce quality wines, however, they never succeeded. Wine production was then abandoned for a time. Thomas Jefferson was an advocate of wine and was interested in producing wine in Virginia. An Italian, Phillip Mazzei, was Thomas Jefferson's guest at Monticello in 1773. He succeeded in producing quality wine, however the wines were eventually attacked by insects which killed them off. Wine was later successfully produced at Monticello. In the nineteenth centruy the Norton grape was discovered. This grape did well in the Virginia soil and produced a quality Virginia claret. In the 1970's and 1980's, many hybrids of grapes were grown in different Virginia regions. Some types of these grapes are Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Trebbiano, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir, Alexander, and Scuppernong.
Virginia produces many types of white and red wine. Chardonnay is the most widely planted grape and is a specialty of the area. Virginia Chardonnays are refreshing and balanced. Riesling grapes are also planted in Virgina, producing semi-dry and dry wines. Other white wines include Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Gewerztraminer, Pinot Gris, Malvasia, Marsanne, Vignerm Seyal Blanc, and Vidal Blanc. Red wines include Bordeaux, Cabernet Sauvingon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Nebbiolo.