6190 Georgetown Road, Broad Run, VA 20137
540.347.3475
www.pearmundcellars.com

I had heard a lot of good things about this winery, but why we waited so long to try them out is still a mystery. SQ and I were trying to decide what to do on this Friday, Syd was at school, and we wanted to get out for a new adventure. I suggested driving here, then heading over to their sister winery, The Winery at La Grange. After a forgettable burger at the Five Guys in Warrenton (I apologize to those of you who worship this now mega-chain), we drove out to Pearmund. The gravel driveway taking you back to the tasting room snakes through what seems like endless rows of grape vines. We were shocked that there were others already there, it was only noon. I took this as a good sign that the wine would probably have some merit. Pearmund offers a couple of tasting options - you can run the course of their ‘Classic’ wines for $5 per person, or you can do the Reserve tasting for $8 per person. We opted for the Classic, but as we stood there talking to Mark, who was doing the pouring, he ended up giving us some of the Reserve wines to taste. Smart guy…we ended up buying several bottles from that list.

Pearmund was voted Virginia’s Favorite Winery this year, and I think with good reason. They have a good selection and the wines are very balanced. They are also producing some really creative wine, most notably the Ameritage, which is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Mark was very knowledgeable with the wines and wasn’t afraid to offer opinions and suggestions for food pairings. I would comfortably say that Pearmund is in our Top 5 Virginia Wines.

So, what did we buy? The 2005 Ameritage Reserve was my absolute favorite, consensus of 3 1/2 stars with SQ so we bought two bottles. We also purchased the 2005 Petit Verdot (also on the Reserve list), the 2006 Sauvignon Blanc, 2005 Estate Chardonnay (my other favorite, 3 1/2 stars!), and the 2004 Cabernet Franc. Pearmund also does winery tours, but we opted out for today. If a picnic at a winery is your thing, bring it with you…they have tables under a covered patio, or you can spread out your yummies in the grass. You can crack open the bottle you just purchased, or buy wine by the glass while you’re there.

If you can get out to the Warrenton area, try to stop by…they are open daily, and the visit will really be worth it.