Sometimes a little competition can be a good thing, particularly when it comes to wine. There are two stores in the area which provide a free wine tasting every Friday night beginning at 5pm.
The River Market, located in White Stone on Rappahannock Drive, usually offers a small selection of wines from various vintners. Ramona and David, the sommeliers, are well versed in their offerings and can answer questions to suit most visitors. In addition, The Market serves light appetizers to compliment the wine selection. In our opinion, the best part of this wine tasting is the mix of locals and tourists who gather to sample the offerings. After a visit or two, you will begin to recognize repeat visitors and the evening becomes more like a cocktail party.
We often order dinner to go while participating in the wine tasting. The Market offers a variety of entrées such as filet mignon, New York strip, crab cakes, fish and ribs accompanied by a starch and vegetable. (The menu for the evening is usually taped to the counter by the cash register) The refrigerator case in the rear of the store holds a variety of salads, home-made soups and more.
Specials, located in Kilmarnock on 52 S. Main Street, offers an extensive collection of national and international wines. They tend to offer more specialized wines such as Orin Swift’s Mercury Head and Papillon but carry many Virginia wines as well. Educating customers about their wine selection is of great importance to them, so ask questions! A mix of good conversation, cheese with crackers and fine wine offerings complete the experience.
Specials also offers a wide variety of gourmet fare and chocolates.
The wine tastings at both stores provide an opportunity to learn about new varieties before making a purchase. Check prices, particularly on Virginia wines and more common varieties as they can be more costly than you might find at the Tri-Star or Food Lion.
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