Virginia is quickly becoming recognized as a premier wine destination in the United States, and among its many exceptional wineries, Kings Family Vineyard easily secures a spot as a favorite. From the moment you arrive, even for those new to wine tasting, the allure of this estate is undeniable.
Nestled against the breathtaking backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Kings Family Vineyard boasts meticulously manicured polo grounds that immediately capture your attention. While they offer indoor spaces for enjoyment, the ideal experience unfolds outdoors, where you can bask in the stunning scenery while savoring their wines.
Scenic view of Kings Family Vineyard with Blue Ridge Mountains in the background
Beyond the picturesque setting, Kings Family Vineyard is renowned for its exceptional wines, largely thanks to the expertise of winemaker Matthieu Finot. For those familiar with Virginia wine, Finot’s name is synonymous with quality. His impact is evident in the consistent recognition Kings Family Vineyard receives, notably in the Virginia Governor’s Case. For nearly a decade, wines from Kings Family Vineyard have been featured, with their 2014 Meritage earning top honors in 2018. This consistent acclaim underscores their commitment to producing top-tier Virginia wines.
During a visit to Kings Family Vineyard, the hospitality is as impressive as the wine. Hosted by both James King and Wine Director Matthew Brown, guests are treated to an in-depth tasting experience coupled with the captivating story of the vineyard’s origins. Matthew guided a comprehensive tasting, while James shared the fascinating history of how Kings Family Vineyard came to be, attributing its inception to his parents, David and Ellen King.
James King and Wine Director Matthew Brown at Kings Family Vineyards
Interestingly, wine wasn’t David King’s initial passion. His pursuit of polo was the catalyst for acquiring over 300 acres west of Charlottesville. David’s real estate requirements were clear: land flat enough for a polo field. Unbeknownst to the Kings, their chosen land possessed ideal conditions for viticulture. Initially hesitant, they eventually embraced the potential for winemaking, planting their first vines in 1998 and opening the tasting room doors in 2002, marking the birth of Kings Family Vineyard.
Today, Kings Family Vineyard stands as one of Virginia’s largest wineries, producing 20,000 cases annually, a significant portion of which is their popular Rosé. While their 50 acres of vineyards provide substantial fruit, they also source grapes from local growers, ensuring quality and consistency. And yes, the tradition of polo continues to thrive at Kings Family Vineyard, with matches held from Memorial Day through mid-October, adding a unique sporting dimension to the wine tasting experience.
Polo field at Kings Family Vineyards showcasing the estate's grounds
The popularity of Kings Family Vineyard is evident in their rapid sell-through of inventory. During a visit, the tasting menu highlighted the 2017 and 2018 vintages, and their sought-after Rosé was already sold out. This high demand, coupled with their practice of reserving exceptional wines for the Governor’s Cup competition, speaks volumes about the quality and reputation of Kings Family Vineyard. Despite inventory challenges, a tasting still offered a diverse selection of nearly a dozen wines, revealing several standouts.
The tasting journey began with their 2018 white wines. Despite a challenging growing season, winemaker Matthieu Finot crafted a remarkable lineup. The zesty Viognier, distinctively less floral than typical Viogniers, emerged as a favorite. The tasting also included their Chardonnay and Roseland, a Chardonnay-dominant blend, both noted for their approachable and easy-drinking character, perfect for a Virginia wine afternoon.
Moving to the reds, a trio of single varietal wines showcased the range of Kings Family Vineyard. The 2018 Cabernet Franc presented a delightful balance of tartness and fruitiness. Following was the 2017 “Small Batch” Petit Verdot, a standout with intense flavors that are characteristic of Virginia Petit Verdot. A unique offering was a Petit Verdot from Argentina, part of Kings Family Vineyard’s innovative approach to expand their red wine portfolio. While well-received, it reinforced the high regard for Virginia-grown Petit Verdots.
Interior of the tasting room at Kings Family Vineyards, a popular Virginia winery
The tasting progressed to Merlot-based red blends, featuring the 2012 Meritage, a past Governor’s Case selection, exhibiting a harmonious blend of earth and fruit notes. The 2017 Mountain Plains red blend followed, both enjoyable, with the Meritage holding a slight edge, perhaps rivaled only by the Small Batch Petit Verdot.
Concluding the tasting were dessert wines: the 2017 “Seven,” a port-style wine made from Petit Verdot (a testament to the winemaker’s affinity for the varietal), and the 2016 Lorely dessert wine, each offering a sweet and satisfying finish.
Wine glasses with white wine being tasted at Kings Family Vineyards
Selection of red wine bottles from Kings Family Vineyards during a wine tasting
Although an encounter with Matthieu Finot wasn’t possible during the visit, his influence is central to the Kings Family Vineyard story. Arriving in Virginia initially for a single vintage, Finot’s talent and dedication led him to stay and contribute significantly to Virginia’s wine landscape. While primarily focused on Kings Family Vineyard, he also lends his winemaking expertise to several other local wineries, further cementing his status as a key figure in the region’s wine industry.
Winemaker Matthieu Finot inspecting vines at Kings Family Vineyards
Kings Family Vineyard offers a complete Virginia wine country experience – stunning scenery, rich history, and, most importantly, exceptional wines crafted by a celebrated winemaker. It’s a destination that appeals to both seasoned wine connoisseurs and those just beginning to explore the world of wine. A visit to Kings Family Vineyard is highly recommended for anyone seeking the best of Virginia wineries.
