Wine of the Week: Breaux Vineyards 2020 Marquis de Lafayette

 A Toast to Virginia Wine Month

I didn't even realize it was Virginia Wine Month when we opened a bottle of Breaux Vineyards 2020 Marquis de Lafayette. Talk about perfect timing! October is Virginia Wine Month, a celebration of the wineries, vineyards, and people who have helped put Virginia on the wine map.

My introduction to Virginia wine goes back to a TasteCamp trip that seems like yesterday, but when I stop and think about it, it was at least ten years ago. Where does the time go?

TasteCamp was an opportunity for wine writers and bloggers to explore emerging wine regions, meet winemakers, walk through vineyards, and experience the wines firsthand. It was during that trip that I discovered just how much Virginia had to offer.

I've been a big fan of Virginia wines ever since. Even took my husband there two years ago for our anniversary to turn him onto Virginia Wines.

Breaux Vineyards is a family-owned winery with a beautiful setting between the Blue Ridge and Short Hill Mountains in Purcellville, Virginia, located in Loudoun County. (and dog friendly, but dogs must stay outside)

The story began in 1994 when the Breaux family purchased a 404-acre property that already had a small vineyard planted in 1985. What started as a hobby of making wine for family and friends grew into something much bigger. Today, it is one of the oldest, largest and most acclaimed wineries in Northern Virginia.

In April 1997, Breaux Vineyards officially opened its doors to the public.

Today, the estate has approximately 104 acres of vineyards planted with a diverse collection of grape varieties. From Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon to Merlot, Nebbiolo, Viognier, and more, Breaux has embraced the possibilities of Virginia's growing conditions.

The Wine: 2020 Marquis de Lafayette

This was a purchase from our anniversary trip to Breaux. Marquis de Lafayette is a Cabernet Franc-based wine with some Petit Verdot and Merlot blended in. I couldn't find the exact percentages, but the wine does spend 17 months in French oak barrels.

On the nose: Tobacco and worn leather were the first aromas that caught my attention. There was a touch of  earthiness to it.  The savory notes were complemented by dark fruit and a subtle suggestion of spice.

On the palate: Lots of beautiful black fruit! Think blackberry, black cherry, and a touch of black plum. The fruit was rich and expressive without being overwhelming. The tobacco and leather notes carried through from the nose, adding complexity and giving the wine a slightly rustic, Old World character.

The tannins felt nicely integrated, providing structure without overpowering the fruit. There was a pleasant balance between the dark fruit and savory characteristics, with a lingering finish that left me wanting another sip.

What Would I Pair With It?

This is a wine that belongs at the dinner table.

With its dark fruit, savory notes, and balanced structure, I can think of quite a few dishes that would make wonderful companions.

A grilled ribeye or filet mignon would be an obvious choice. The wine's tannins and fruit would complement the richness of the beef.

But I'd also reach for this bottle with herb-roasted lamb, pork tenderloin with a mushroom sauce, or even a hearty beef stew.

And since we're in October, how about a wild mushroom risotto? Those earthy flavors would be wonderful alongside the tobacco and leather characteristics of the wine.

For something simple, a board of aged cheddar, Gouda, and a little charcuterie would work beautifully.

October Is Virginia Wine Month

What better time to explore Virginia wine than October?

Virginia Wine Month celebrates the state's wine industry during one of the most exciting times of the year: harvest.

While Virginia has a long history of grape growing, its modern wine industry has developed into a diverse community of wineries producing everything from sparkling wines and crisp Viognier to elegant Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Bordeaux-style blends.

And Virginia has something else going for it: beautiful wine country.

Rolling hills, mountain views, historic towns, and welcoming tasting rooms make it a wonderful destination for a wine getaway.

If you've never explored Virginia wine country, put it on your list.

You don't have to travel to California or France to discover interesting wines. Sometimes they're being made just a few states away.