An Intimate Rainy Day at Abingdon Vineyards: A Tasting Experience

Situated along the scenic banks of the South Holston River, Abingdon Vineyards in Abingdon, Virginia, offers an idyllic setting for wine enthusiasts to explore and enjoy high-quality wines. Founded in 2001 by Bob and Janet Carlson, the winery has grown to become a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. In 2018, Loren and Elizabeth Gardner took the helm, bringing fresh energy and vision to the winery. They have continued to build upon the legacy established by the Carlsons, enhancing the vineyard’s offerings and visitor experience.
 
We visited Abingdon Vineyards on a rainy weekday afternoon, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise. We had the entire place to ourselves, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience. The tasting room hostess was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, guiding us through the selection of eight wines they offered. The tasting was priced at $20 for four wines, with generous pours that were equivalent to half a glass each, so we decided to share a tasting.

Our chosen wines were:

Steel Strings: A stainless steel aged Chardonel

Game Changer: A French oak aged blend of Cabernet Franc, Norton, and Chambourcin

Rainbow Rosé: An off-dry blend

Honeysuckle: A tropical wine made with estate Traminette and fortified with Brandy

Each wine was thoughtfully poured, and we were even given a cup of sweet nuts to complement the Honeysuckle wine. Despite the rain, we were drawn to the beautiful outdoor seating by the river. The winery features both open seating along the river and a covered patio beside the building. We chose the covered patio and enjoyed our tasting while taking in the serene views of the river.

Every wine we sampled was of exceptional quality. The Rainbow Rosé stood out with its delightful dryness, making it a favorite. Although I usually prefer drier wines, the fortified Honeysuckle was surprisingly enjoyable and provided a perfect ending to our tasting experience.

To visit Abingdon Vineyards yourself, head to:

20530 Alvarado Rd, Abingdon, VA 24211

For more information, visit their website.

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