The Barns at Hamilton Station, Petit Manseng 2017, Virginia

Tasting Note: Petit Manseng is my new favorite Virginia white wine, and this version with oak is spectacular in the way it balances a ripe-fruit and oak character.

Medium-intensity gold in color, this wine has a pronounced, aromatic nose of pineapple, guava, ripe green apple, quince, clove baking spice and blossom.

On the palate the slightly-off-dry, full-bodied petit manseng has ripe, medium-plus-intensity flavors suggested on the nose supported by medium acidity and completing with a medium-plus finish.

The wine has a creamy texture, midpalate complexity and balance between the fruit and oak character.

A petit manseng to load up on.

Bottle Note: A nose of honeysuckle and pineapple is followed by flavors of tropical fruit, peach and a hint of oak in this full-bodied wine. With a backbone of acid and a touch of sweetness, this wine pairs well with strong flavored foods such as Asian, Thai, and Mexican cuisine. It is also a delight to sip on its own.