Today marks the kick-off of the 2nd annual DC Wine Week…a week long celebration dedicated to enjoying wine, wine education and an opportunity to help support the DC area’s growing local wineries, wine shops, wine bars, restaurants and merchants.

There are hosted events each night this week, as well as paired menus and special offers from participating bars and restaurants. Learn more about the local wine culture and offerings…including Virginia’s 27 wine trails and 210 wineries, and Maryland’s 45 wineries.

Friday night’s event at the Washington Wine Academy is the perfect event for exploration. Food & Wine Magazine voted the Academy one of the top five places to study wine. Celebrating DC Wine Week and Virginia Wine Month, they’ll be pouring from some of Virginia’s best wineries, including twelve wines from Virginia’s Governor’s Case from 6:30-8:30pm.

At Saturday night’s Opening Party at Sonoma Restaurant and Bar, the wine was flowing. My favorite wine of the night…

Boxwood Winery’s Trellis 2010

  • Variety: 68% Merlot, 18% Cabernet Franc, 14% Malbec
  • Aroma: Cherry and spice
  • Taste: Cherry, clove and touch of white pepper on the finish
  • Price: $18
  • My thoughts: This just released wine is a great red blend and example of the fabulous wine you can find in Virginia at a good price point! Enjoy a glass at one of their Tasting Room Wine Bars in the area or you can order it online.

It’s a great week for drinking local during DC Wine Week!