Striving for Excellence: Kluge Estate Winery & Vineyards

Back in the saddle again, and next stop for Vine Spot on the Monticello Wine Trail is the charming and elegant Kluge Estate Winery and Vineyard. Kluge Estate is located in Historic Albemarle County amongst beautiful manicured greens and wooded surroundings. Kluge Estate is owned by Patrica Kluge, who along with a carousel of acclaimed and talented winemakers, including well known names such as Michel Rolland and Gabriele Rausse, are producing a lineup of noteworthy and award winning wines.

Kluge Farm Shop

Kluge is what I call a full service winery, offering light to full gourmet fare, and the most tempting and decadent desserts that even the strictest of Atkins dieters would have trouble turning down. For example, I have said many times “only a cheese platter” and end up with something chocolate and heavenly by days end. The tasting room is also located in the Farm Shop where many local jams, dipping and cooking oils, cheeses, candles and other tasty nibbles can be found. The farm shop is laid out in true country and quaint fashion, and also boasts a charming little coffee shop on the left wing.

The interior... Heavenly Chocolate Desserts behind the glass

The Coffee Shop

We entered the tasting room and were greeted by tasting associate, Heather, who had just finished up with a large crowd who were enjoying Kluge fine wines. Heather is fairly new to the Kluge team, but well learned, telling us all about the wines offered and Kluge plans for a new state of the art tasting room and winery, which I presume is being built not too far from the Farm Shop.

Tasting Bar

Kluge wines are exceptional and the Albemarle Simply Red 2003 is a favorite. It is a medium bodied Bordeaux styled blend displaying a nice medium garnet color and aromas of dark fruit and plum. On the palate are flavors of spice and dark fruit with nice ripe tannins. The Albemarle Rosé 2005 is a nicely done French styled wine with raspberry, strawberry and vanilla aromas with an abundance of bright fruit flavors following through on the palate. This is the perfect aperitif or appetizer wine and can stand up to BBQ and sweet and spicy dishes. The Albemarle Viognier 2005, Kluge’s most recent addition, displays pleasant perfumed and floral aromas, with peach, apricot and hints of vanilla on the palate. This one will pair well with light seafood and pasta dishes, as well as on its own. Truly, there are no wrong turns; there is something for every palate at Kluge.

Amongst the Tall Trees

Following our tasting we chatted a bit with other guests at the winery and decided to enjoy a glass of the Albemarle Viognier 2005 while sitting outdoors amongst the tall engaging trees. We have been to Kluge several times and on a nice sun filled day, there is nothing quite like sitting outdoors surrounded by those tall trees and enjoying some fine cuisine, paired in happy harmony with one of Kluge’s award winning wines.

Vineyard Shot

Kluge has also expanded its plantings, and will be a leading producer in Virginia in due time. The vineyard, which is situated adjacent to the farm shop, is backed by the picturesque green and wooded Charlottesville countryside.

Dezel relaxing on the porch at Kluge

In closing, Kluge is a dedicated and passionate producer whose goal is to craft and produce world class wines; wines that Virginian’s will enjoy and wines that will compete in the global market for respect and recognition. I recommend readers visit Kluge and enjoy their fine wines and gourmet foods. When you decide to visit, please let them know you read about them on Virginia Vine Spot.

• Stay tuned friends, lots more to come!
  

Happy Sipping!

Dezel