2018 Best of Show

CrossKeys Vineyard Fiore 2017

CrossKeys Vineyard Fiore 2017, a rosé wine composed of 70% cabernet franc and 30% chambourcin, was made with estate-grown Shenandoah Valley AVA fruit. It shows a rich fruitiness balanced with savory herbal notes. The winery recommends pairing it with soft cheeses, rich seafood dishes, or herb-rubbed poultry to show off the complexity of the wine.

CrossKeys is owned by the Bakhtiar family, and is located in Mount Crawford, VA, in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. A spokesperson for the family says, “We are honored to be recognized for this prestigious award and our wine making and vineyard team are so happy to see the fruits of their labor not only enjoyed by happy customers but also recognized by this amazing award.”

Grapes for the wine were whole-cluster pressed and fermented in stainless steel. The cabernet franc was harvested early specifically for use in this rosé, and contributes to the more complex herbal and citrus flavors, according to the winery. Suggested retail price of the wine is $19.50.