Melissa Close, executive chef of Palladio Restaurant at Barboursville Vineyards, was named by the James Beard Foundation as a semi-finalist in the Best Chef, Mid-Atlantic Region category. Finalists will be announced in late March after 400 judges trim the nominees down to 5 finalists per category.

Good luck, Melissa. We are proud of you and impressed by your cooking. Here’s a truly Italian experience without overseas travel. You can score a double-header: both an award-winning restaurant and winery within an easy drive from anywhere in our bountiful region. Actually, go for the trifecta and stay at the 1804 Inn, also on the grounds! We can’t wait to try your new spring menu.