The Winery at Bull Run

The Winery at Bull Run in Centreville, VA

On a beautifully warm March day, I went to visit the Winery at Bull Run with some friends I've known since kindergarten and our families.

The whole group at the end of the day filled with some fantastic wines.

Upon arrival, we, of course, did a tasting. 8 wines, 4 red and 4 white. Our server was extremely knowledgeable and passionate about these wines (and also a bit jealous that I get to take a college class on wine). After debating the meaning of legs on a wine, we began. While tasting the Riesling, he told us that the shape of the bottle affects the taste of the wine, which is why most whites have more of a gradual widening, whereas reds just immediately get wide beneath the cork. 

He also talked about the Virginia terroir and how the soil here lightens merlot grapes. He also taught us about a grape variety called Meritage (pronounced like Heritage, since it American, not French), which was basically America's response to Bordeaux. Strong, tannic, and great with bold flavors and meals.

The initial wine tasting. I believe in this photo we are holding the Stainless Steel Chardonnay.

After the tasting, there was much discussion over which wines to buy. For me, it wasn't even a question. The oak barrel Chardonnay was by far my favorite. Nothing better than an oaky, vanilla Chardonnay. The mothers, though, preferred the Norton: a strong, dry, tannic red while my sister went with a glass of Rose (amateur).

At the table, enjoying some great wine and catching one another up on how the semester is going.

When we sat down, we also decided to order some bread and cheese to have with the wines, which was a fantastic decision. I am unsure what kind of cheese was ordered, but I do know that it paired perfectly with the Chardonnay I was drinking. The richness of the cheese accentuated the sharpness and nice, acidic finish of the wine. Delicious.

Cheers to a great day!

In the end, I ended up leaving with a bottle of the stainless steel Chardonnay and a complimentary Bull Run wine glass! Win! It was a great day filled with the best friends, discussion, and wine a man could ask for. Can't wait to go back!