Here’s the 24th installment of The Wine Chef’s December "Advent Calendar" wine series.

Early Mountain Rise 2021 - Virginia

Virginia has a fascinating history, and its wine industry is no exception. When English colonists first settled here in 1609, they planted grapevines with dreams of creating a thriving wine business. While other crops, like tobacco, took off, it wasn’t until the late 1970s that Virginia’s wine industry gained momentum.

Today, it’s a well-established wine region with eight distinct AVAs (American Viticultural Areas), producing wines that rival those from more famous regions.

One of my favorite examples of this success is Early Mountain Vineyards, located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Their Rise, a bold yet balanced red blend of 58% Merlot, 17% Petit Verdot, 15% Tannat, and 10% Cabernet Franc, is only produced in the very best vintages. This is a wine of power and elegance on par with big Napa Valley reds.

On the nose, the 2021 Rise greets you with aromas of dark cherry, blackberry, and hints of dried herbs. A touch of spice—think cinnamon and clove—adds warmth without being overpowering. The palate is equally inviting, with ripe dark fruit flavors layered over silky tannins, a touch of vanilla from the oak aging, and just enough acidity to keep things lively.

This wine is a splurge at $150 and can be found on the Early Mountain website. However, if that’s more than you want to spend, the winery’s Foothills red, a blend of 43% Petit Verdot, 23% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Franc, 11% Tannat, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, is a delicious wine for $30.

Wishing you all a Happy Holiday, with gratitude for your support!