How Sweet It Is: Dessert Wine Wins 2020 Governor's Cup

Main Street Station
Richmond, Virginia

For the first ime in 15 years, a dessert wine claimed the coveted Virginia Governor's Cup. At the 2020 Governor's Cup Celebration, 868 Estate Vineyards in Purcellville won "Best in Show" honors for the 2017 Vidal Blanc Passito, beating out more than 530 wines.

And for the first time, Loudoun County can claim to be first in grapes. The award-winning wine is made from from 100 percent Loudoun County fruit. The Monticello AVA has dominated past competitions; The Barns at Hamilton Station won the 2017 Governor's Cup; but with grapes from the Charlotttesville area.

Gov. Ralph Northam presents 2020 Governor's Cup to the 868 Estate Vineyard Team

Virginia Wine Dog York was on the scene to report, and caught up with an ebullient Carl DiManno. The co-founder and winemaker at 868 Estate Vineyards called the 2017 Passito the culmination of a labor of love. "A lot of love and hard work went into this wine, but it was well worth it," adding "I am thrilled that Loudoun’s wines are getting the recognition that they deserve.”

Three other pillars of the Virginia wine industry also were honored at the Governor's Cup Celebration:

Justin Rose of Rosemont Winery, was named Virginia Wine Person of the Year

Randy Phillips, general manager of Cave Ridge Vineyard won the Gordon Murchie Lifetime Achievement Award

George Hodson of Veritas Vineyards was named the David King Wine Advocate of the Year

All 64 Gold Medal wines from the competition were showcased at the Celebration, with special recognition given to the top 12 (including the 868 Estates Passito), which will comprise this year's Governor's Cup Case. Read about them here.

Virginia Loves Carl DiManno's Passito