We raise a glass in congratulations to the winners and honorees of the 2013 Virginia Wine Association's Governor's Cup. Several Best of Virginia wine partners took home honors, including Barboursville, whose 2009 "Octagon 12 Edition" was named the 2013 Virginia Wine of the Year. Barboursville won the cup for an historic fourth time, but all Virginia wines were elevated and honored by this prestigious competition. ‍ Due to high standards and stringent judging, championed by Gov. Bob McDonnell, the Governor's Cup has become one of the most challenging wine competitions in the country. Jay Youmans, a Certified Wine Educator (CWE), owner of the Capital Wine School in D.C., and one of only 30 Masters of Wine (MW) in the country, directed the Cup and recruited judges from the world of wine buying and wine media. ‍ From 377 entries submitted by 93 Virginia wineries, the 12 top-scoring wines were selected for the Governor's Case, including several Best of Virginiawines (highlighted below). Barboursville Vineyards -2009 Octagon 12th Edition (Meritage) Cooper Vineyards - 2010 Petite Verdot Reserve King Family Vineyards - 2010 Meritage Lovingston Winery - 2009 Josie's Knoll Estate Reserve (Meritage) Philip Carter Winery - 2010 Cleve (Petite Verdot, Tannat) Pollak Vineyards - 2009 Cabernet Franc Reserve Potomac Point Vineyard and Winery - 2010 Richland Reserve Heritage (Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat, Petite Verdot) Rappahannock Cellars - 2010 Meritage RdV Vineyards - 2010 Rendevous (Meritage) RdV Vineyards - 2010 Lost Mountain (Meritage) Sunset Hills Vineyard - 2010 Mosaic (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot) Trump Winery - 2008 Sparkling Rose (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir) ‍ As Gov. McDonnell remarked, "I am confident that wine aficionados and enthusiasts alike will take notice of Octagon and the other impressive offerings in this case. The advancements in Virginia winemaking are on display in every bottle ... and the stringent requirements of the Governor's Cup competition ensure that Virginia wines receiving medals have been through the most demanding evaluation process." ‍ Our Best of Virginia program works to increase awareness and build market demand for Virginia wines. Last year's Governor's Cup winner, Glen Manor Vineyards' 2009 Hodder Hill Meritage, crafted by winemaker Jeff White, is one of several wineries featured in this curated collection. Stop by our tasting room today to celebrate the achievements of Virginia winemakers.