Kudos, kudos, all around, from Michael Broadbent, internationally recognized Master of Wine, who just rated his recent visit to Barboursville Vineyards with the headline: “States’ Evidence: Virginia 1, California 0.” Now that’s a score to write about. YES!

In the upcoming August issue of Decanter magazine, Broadbent details his recent visit to the Estate. It’s been 6 years since he sat and lunched with winemaker Luca Paschina. During that time he produced 79 columns, but this was a sweet return to what he remembered so well in 2003. Barboursville has racked up its own share of words, since that first visit, with a broad range of accolades from numerous competitions.

Broadbent begins his review by comparing his first luncheon wine, the 2004 Viognier Reserve as one that “exceeds the Rhone Valley’s finest Condrieu.” Not a bad start to a meal, or a review. When he enjoyed the 1998 Octagon later in the meal, he gave it the same high four-star rating he’d earlier bestowed on the Viognier.

He was not finished with his praise and concluded his article gushing about a wine he admits he seldom has “taken to”, but this time he’s given it a five-star mention: The 2001 Malvaxia Reserve Passito and also the 2005 vintage which he says is “not as sweet but has more of a bite.” A true dessert experience!

That praise from the man who founded Christie’s Auction Wine Department in 1966 and has written Decanter’s “Tasting Note” column for over 30 years should have other Virginia wineries anticipating his return to the states. He obviously found a lot to enjoy on his springtime visit.

Wonderful news.