Is Luca the GOAT? Barboursville Claims 6th Governor's Cup (That's Half a Case)

Winemaker and General Manager Luca Paschina claims a record sixth Governor's Cup for Barboursville

Richmond, Virginia

March 13, 2025

The Wine Dogs salute Luca Paschina as the Greatest of All Time in the Virginia wine world. For the sixth time (one-third of the years of the competition), the winemaking team at Barboursville Vineyards have claimed the Virginia Governor's Cup (the fifth under Luca). This year, it was the delightfully refreshing 2023 Vermentino, an Italian white grape, that won the judges over.

The ruins of Governor Barbour's home at Barboursville Vineyards

Located in the Monticello AVA, Barboursville is one of Virginia's oldest vineyards. The Barboursville estate itself dates back to the early 1800s, and the ruins remain on the property. The vineyard was first planted in 1976 by Gionni Zonin. 

Governor Glenn Youngkin presents the 2025 Governor's Cup to Luca Paschina (with First Lady Suzanne Youngkin and Secretary of Agriculture Matt Lohr)

Luca Paschina, a third-generation Italian winemaker, joined Barboursville in 1990 and has crafted 35 vintages on the estate. In 2015, he was honored by his native Italy with induction into the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. His world-class Octagon, a Bordeaux blend, is Barboursville's centerpiece - the 2017 vintage also finding a place in this year's Governor's Cup Case. 

"Luca Paschina and his team at Barboursville Vineyards embody the passion and pioneering spirit of Virginia wines," the Governor said in presenting the award. "Their dedication to excellence is evident in every vintage they produce, showcasing an unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and innovation."

Cider of the Year - Daring Wine & Cider Crab Apple Blend 

Jocelyn Kuzelka of Daring Wine & Cider Company produced the best-in-show cider -- the Crab Apple Blend. This is the fifth year ciders have had their own category.

More than 620 entries from over 140 Virginia wineries, cideries, and meaderies competed in this year's competition. In all 155 won gold and were showcased at the Celebration, with special recognition given to the top 12 (including the Barboursville Vermentino), which will comprise this year's Governor's Cup Case. Read about them here. 

Congratulations, Luca, from the Virginia Wine Dogs!