Let's be honest, when most people think of wine country, their minds jump straight to Napa Valley, Sonoma, or maybe the rolling hills of Tuscany. Virginia? Not so much. And when they do think about Virginia wine, it's usually Chardonnay or Viognier that comes to mind.
But here's the thing: Northern Virginia has been quietly cultivating something special. Something that wine enthusiasts are increasingly buzzing about. We're talking about Petite Manseng and Cabernet Franc, two grape varieties that have found a surprisingly perfect home in Virginia's unique terroir.
So grab your tasting glass and let's explore why these underdog varietals deserve a spot on your wine radar (and your next wine tour itinerary).
Why Virginia? The Unexpected Wine Frontier
Before we dive into the grapes themselves, let's talk about what makes Northern Virginia such an interesting place for wine. The region sits in a sweet spot climatically, hot, humid summers that push grapes to develop intense flavors, paired with enough temperature variation to maintain acidity and complexity.
Sure, these conditions can be challenging. Humidity means disease pressure. Unpredictable weather keeps winemakers on their toes. But here's where it gets interesting: these challenges have pushed Virginia vintners to get creative. Instead of forcing grapes that struggle in this climate, they've embraced varieties that actually thrive here.
Enter Petite Manseng and Cabernet Franc, two grapes that seem almost tailor-made for Virginia's growing conditions.
Petite Manseng: Virginia's White Wine Star
If you haven't tried Petite Manseng yet, you're in for a treat. This little grape has become Virginia's most popular white wine variety, and for good reason.
Originally from Southwest France (the Jurançon region, if you want to impress your friends at your next dinner party), Petite Manseng has adapted remarkably well to Virginia's climate. Its thick skin provides natural resistance to the mildews that plague many other grape varieties in humid conditions. And those loosely packed grape clusters? They allow air to circulate freely, keeping rot at bay.
What Does It Taste Like?
Forget everything you know about crisp, mineral-driven white wines. Petite Manseng is a flavor explosion in the best possible way.
Expect rich tropical notes, think pineapple and mango, alongside stone fruits like apricot and peach. There's often a honey-like sweetness (even in dry versions), hints of citrus, and sometimes floral undertones that make each sip genuinely interesting.
But here's what really sets Petite Manseng apart: its naturally high acidity. This backbone of brightness keeps all those lush fruit flavors in check, preventing the wine from becoming cloying or heavy. It's this balance that makes Virginia Petite Manseng so food-friendly and, honestly, so darn drinkable.
Dry, Sweet, or Somewhere in Between
One of the coolest things about exploring Petite Manseng on a Northern Virginia wine tour is the sheer variety you'll encounter. Winemakers work with this grape's high sugar and acid levels to create everything from bone-dry table wines to lusciously sweet dessert wines, and plenty of off-dry options in between.
This versatility means you'll taste dramatically different expressions of the same grape as you hop from vineyard to vineyard. It's like seeing different artists interpret the same subject, each version unique, all of them fascinating.
Cabernet Franc: The Red Wine Revelation
Now let's talk about the red side of the equation. If Petite Manseng is Virginia's white wine star, Cabernet Franc is rapidly becoming its red wine hero.
You might know Cabernet Franc as Cabernet Sauvignon's more delicate parent (yes, really: Cab Franc is one of the grapes that created Cab Sauv through natural cross-pollination centuries ago). In Bordeaux, it's typically a blending grape. But in Virginia? It stands proudly on its own.
The Virginia Cabernet Franc Difference
Virginia's Cabernet Franc tends to be more expressive and aromatic than versions from cooler climates. The warm growing season allows the grapes to achieve full ripeness, developing richer fruit character while maintaining the variety's signature elegance.
What you'll find in the glass: bright red fruit flavors: think cherries, raspberries, and red currants: layered with savory notes of bell pepper, tobacco, and herbs. There's often a pleasant earthiness, sometimes a hint of violet on the nose, and tannins that are present but smooth rather than aggressive.
Why It Works Here
Cabernet Franc ripens earlier than its famous offspring Cabernet Sauvignon, which is crucial in Virginia's climate. The earlier harvest window means grapes can be picked before autumn rains and humidity cause problems. It's a practical advantage that results in consistently excellent wine year after year.
The grape also handles Virginia's clay-heavy soils beautifully, producing wines with depth and structure that can rival (dare we say exceed?) many of its more famous counterparts from traditional wine regions.
What to Expect on Your Wine Tour
So you're convinced. You want to explore these fantastic varietals for yourself. Here's what a typical Northern Virginia wine tour focused on these wines might look like.
The Tasting Experience
Most wineries in the region offer flights that showcase their range of wines, including Petite Manseng and Cabernet Franc alongside other Virginia specialties. Don't be shy about asking your tasting room host to focus on these varietals specifically: they love talking about what makes Virginia wine unique.
At each stop, you'll notice how the same grape can taste completely different based on vineyard location, winemaking style, and vintage variation. That Petite Manseng from one estate might be bright and citrusy, while the version poured twenty minutes down the road is rich and honeyed. Same grape, totally different personality.
Food Pairing Tips
Planning to grab a bite during your tour? Here's a quick cheat sheet:
Petite Manseng pairs beautifully with:
- Asian cuisine (especially Thai dishes that aren't too spicy)
- Seafood with rich, buttery sauces
- Soft cheeses
- Stone fruit desserts
Cabernet Franc is fantastic with:
- Grilled meats and vegetables
- Charcuterie boards
- Earthy dishes with mushrooms or herbs
- Medium-aged cheeses
Making the Most of Your Visit
A few quick tips for getting the most out of your Petite Manseng and Cabernet Franc adventure:
Start with the whites. Your palate will be freshest early in the day, which is perfect for appreciating Petite Manseng's nuanced aromatics.
Take notes. Even just jotting down which wines you loved (and which you didn't) will help you remember what to look for at the wine shop later.
Ask questions. Virginia winemakers are passionate about their craft and love sharing what makes their region special. Don't be afraid to geek out.
Consider a guided tour. Having someone else handle the driving means you can actually enjoy those tastings. Plus, a good guide will know which wineries are really excelling with these varietals right now.
Ready to Explore?
Virginia wine has come a long way, and Petite Manseng and Cabernet Franc represent some of the most exciting developments in the region. These aren't second-choice wines or experiments: they're genuinely world-class expressions of grapes that have found their ideal home.
Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast looking for something new or a curious beginner ready to expand your palate, a Northern Virginia wine tour focused on these varietals is an experience you won't forget.
So next time someone mentions Virginia wine and Chardonnay in the same breath, you'll have plenty to say about the region's real rising stars. And trust us: once you've tasted a well-made Virginia Petite Manseng or Cabernet Franc, you'll be just as excited to spread the word.
Cheers to discovering something new! 🍷
