Doukenie Winery Review
Address: 14727 Mountain Rd. Hillsboro,Virginia 20132.
Phone Number: 540-668-6464
Tasting Hours: 10:00-6:00
Region: Virginia
Reviewer: Richard Rynders
Review Date: 9/15/2015
Reviewer: Richard Rynders
Rating: 5
The Review
Easily accessible from just outside Purcellville, Doukenie Winery is a terrific find among the many wineries of Loudon County. Named after the grandmother of the owner, Doukenie (meaning Duchess in Greek) is a testament to the heritage of the family and the values it brings to the art and science of winemaking. That sense of family and European hospitality is felt the minute you walk in the door.
Entering a large tasting room, you find a large tasting bar on your left and a warm, inviting tasting area (complete with fireplace) on your right. Straight ahead are floor-to-ceiling windows with a view of the 500-acre property. Just outside the doors is a deck with tables and chairs that invites visitors to relax and enjoy the view and ambiance of this marvelous estate.
Tastings are $10 per person and allow you to sample two whites, four reds and a dessert wine of the nineteen wines available on the tasting list. Sebastien Marquet makes the wines, and his extensive winemaking experience in both France and California is evident in the wine offerings. Each of the white wines we tasted would pair nicely with a variety of cheese complements. Light, flavorful, and with a touch of minerality, the whites provide a nice introduction of what was to come on the other side of the list.
Bordeaux grapes are at the heart of Doukenie’s red wines. All estate-grown, the individual varietals and blends create the feeling of a true European chateau within the confines of Virginias Old Dominion. Created to pair with food, each offering is distinct in flavor and feel. Although the winery sells a small selection of meats, cheeses, and breads, I would suggest bringing your own favorites and select your wine accordingly to create a fabulous lunch or brunch. As an added bonus, a free piece of homemade baklava is provided with every purchase (made by Doukenies daughter and mother of the owner, herself)!
As mentioned above, there are several options available at Doukenie to enjoy that purchased glass or bottle. On the day we visited, we sat outside overlooking the scenic pond, complete with an array of ducklings and other wonders of the natural world. The grounds also offer picnic tables and space for families to bring their dogs (leashed) and allow the kiddies to run and play. Off in the other direction, one is rewarded with a view of stacked wine barrels and a beautiful horse barn. The winery provides a wonderful setting for both weddings and corporate events. Parties with limos and buses are welcome but must call in advance to reserve a time.
No matter what time of year, Doukenie presents a wonderful experience for the wine novice as well as the connoisseur. This is one Loudon County winery that should be on everyones must visit list.