#United States #Richmond #Barboursville Vineyards #Virginia Governor's Cup #2023 Vermentino

Barboursville Vineyards Wins Prestigious 2025 Virginia Governor's Cup

On March 13, 2025, Barboursville Vineyards achieved a remarkable feat by winning the coveted 2025 Virginia Governor's Cup for its exceptional 2023 Vermentino. This prestigious award was presented at the annual Virginia Governor's Cup Gala held at Richmond's Main Street Station. The competition celebrated its 43rd year with over 600 entries from more than 140 wineries, cideries, and meaderies across Virginia.

Governor Glenn Youngkin emphasized the commitment and passion that winemaker Luca Paschina and his dedicated team exhibit in every bottle they produce. He stated, "Luca Paschina and his team at Barboursville Vineyards embody the passion and pioneering spirit of Virginia wines. Their dedication to excellence is evident in every vintage they produce, showcasing an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and innovation." This recognition reflects not only the quality of Virginia wines but also their importance as agricultural products and economic contributors to the state.

Located in Barboursville, Virginia, the winery has been producing exquisite wines for nearly 50 years. Winemaker Luca Paschina joined the vineyard in 1990 and has led efforts to innovate by experimenting with grape varieties that thrive in Virginia's distinctive climate. His vision, along with the expertise of Vineyard Manager Fernando Franco and Assistant Winemaker Daniele Tessaro, has resulted in a collection of both expressive white wines and complex reds that capture the essence of the region.

This victory marks the sixth occasion that Barboursville Vineyards has secured the Governor's Cup. Previous awards under Paschina’s leadership include accolades for their 1988 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, 1997 Cabernet Franc, 1998 Cabernet Franc Reserve, and 2009 Octagon. The 2023 Vermentino stood out in this year's competition, receiving high praise from a panel of esteemed judges who assessed the wines based on appearance, aroma, flavor, commercial viability, and overall quality. It has earned a spot among the twelve best wines of the state, featured in the Virginia Governor's Cup Case.

The collection of outstanding wines includes:

• - 50 West Vineyards, 2021 Aldie Heights Cuvée
• - Barboursville Vineyards, 2023 Vermentino
• - Barboursville Vineyards, 2017 Octagon
• - DuCard Vineyards, 2023 Cabernet Franc Vintners Reserve
• - King Family Vineyards, 2021 Mountain Plains Red
• - Michael Shaps Wineworks, 2022 Chardonnay
• - Paradise Springs Winery, 2023 Cabernet Franc, Brown Bear Vineyard
• - Potomac Point Winery, 2023 Albariño
• - Trump Winery, 2018 Sparkling Rosé
• - Valley Road Vineyards, 2023 Petit Manseng
• - Veritas Winery, 2023 Monticello White
• - Winery at La Grange, 2023 Petit Manseng

The Virginia Governor's Cup Case is a testament to the quality and diversity present in the Commonwealth’s wine industry and showcases a balanced array of six whites, five reds, and a sparkling rosé. Furthermore, Virginia cider was also highlighted in its separate category this year, with the title of Cider of the Year going to Daring Wine Cider Company for their Crab Apple Blend.

Beginning this year, standout wines from categories with multiple submissions were acknowledged as Best in Show winners, enhancing the spirit of competition. Notable winners include Breaux Vineyards' 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon and several others in various categories.

The Virginia Governor's Cup Competition, organized by the Virginia Wineries Association in collaboration with the Virginia Wine Board, only accepts entries made from 100% Virginia-grown fruit, ensuring a unique representation of the region's agricultural heritage. For more insights and a full list of winners, interested parties can visit Virginia Wine.

In conclusion, Barboursville Vineyards' commitment to quality and innovation continues to elevate Virginia's wine reputation on both national and international stages. As they move forward, the vineyard looks set to keep adding to its legacy while inspiring other producers within the flourishing Virginia wine industry.