Matt Harmon: Toast in the new year with these Virginia wines
Whether you’re looking for a crisp, refreshing taste to toast in the new year or a complex, layered red to reflect on the past year, you’re covered
The new year isn’t just about marking time; it’s an invitation to explore, taste and toast what’s ahead. As the calendar flips to a new year, there’s a sense of magic in raising a glass to fresh starts and reflecting on the moments that made the past year special.
Here in the Monticello wine country, where every vineyard tells a story and each bottle holds a piece of the land’s soul, there’s no better time to celebrate the artistry of Virginia wine.
This weekend, we’ll dive into two wines that perfectly embody the spirit of discovery and tradition that defines our region: the elegant and refreshing blanc de blanc from Eastwood Farm & Winery and the iconic and complex 2020 Octagon red blend from Barboursville Vineyards
There’s something undeniably festive about a glass of sparkling wine, and Eastwood’s blanc de blanc — made in the traditional way with 100% chardonnay grapes with a standard 12.5% alcohol content — is the ideal companion for a crisp New Year’s weekend.
Imagine a casual brunch with friends, flutes filled with bright, citrus-forward bubbles paired with toasted bagels loaded with smoked salmon, cream cheese and all the fixings, alongside a fresh fruit salad and maybe a few pancakes for good measure. Sitting around the kitchen table, the conversations flow just as easily as the wine. The first sip hits with a burst of citrus and green apple that feels as refreshing as stepping into the cool winter air.
I love wines that leave you craving more, and Eastwood’s blanc de blanc did just that. Each glass made me want to go back for another, and before I knew it, the bottle was gone.
The Octagon from Barboursville is one of those wines that instantly grabs your attention.
Its deep, velvety layers of blackberry, dark cherry and a subtle hint of baking spice feel like wrapping yourself in warmth after a long day in December. There’s a richness to it, but it never feels heavy, just perfectly balanced with a smooth, lingering finish.
What really stood out to me is how this wine evolves in the glass; each swirl brings out something new, whether it’s a touch of cocoa or a hint of earthy minerality.
This is the kind of wine you bring to a dinner party to impress close friends or share with someone special over a beautiful homecooked meal, maybe lambchops or mushroom risotto.
Both of these wines are perfect for this time of year. The blanc de blanc is a great choice for anyone, whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just starting to explore. It’s crisp, refreshing and easy to appreciate. The Octagon, on the other hand, is a bold, complex red ideal for those who enjoy deep, layered flavors and love to savor each sip.
As we step into the new year, it’s a great time to pause, reflect on the past and look forward to making new memories. Whether it’s a relaxed brunch or an intimate evening at home, these wines capture the essence of what make Virginia wine so special.
Cheers to savoring every moment and creating connections over a glass.
