Barboursville Vineyard and Winery. July 6, 2021
Barboursville Vineyard and Winery. July 6, 2021 Barboursville Vineyard and Winery is one of the oldest operating wineries in the Commonwealth, having been established in 1979 as the U.S branch of the Italian wine company Zonin. Francesco Zonin is still the president. Gabriele Rausse, formerly the winemaker, is also secretary. The winery overlooks the vineyards and the ruins of Governor James Barbour’s estate, designed by Thomas Jefferson and completed in 1821. The property includes a gourmet restaurant, Palladio, and lodging in the 1804 Inn and Cottages. Barboursville is one of the most highly awarded wineries in the Commonwealth and a large producer as well. I rate the wines highly but the atmosphere of the tasting room marginal. First, the tasting room experience. The tasting room was small and cramped. We visited on a weekday, and even then the space was crowded. I can only imagine the jam over a weekend. For a tasting, you will receive a glass and