DuCard Vineyards in Etlan submits wines for review and competitions as most wineries do. It is a good way to get opinions on wine from the current vintage year from other wine experts in the field.
Having the chance to get these thoughts is a good way to reinforce the effort put in by the winemaking team.
It is also a good way to get the winery name out into the world for another fan to discover the winery, its wine and authentic winemaking style.
Published online May 14, 2025, VinePair named DuCard Vineyards 2024 Rosé as one of their Best Rosés for 2025 in their Buy This Booze report.
It is one of the most anticipated annual roundups with more than 300 submissions for review this year.
According to the VinePair write-up their mission is “to offer a clear, reliable, source of information for drinkers, providing an overview applicable to day-to-day buying and drinking.”
They believe “in tasting all products as readers typically would: with full knowledge of the producer and – importantly – price” which is why the tastings are not conducted blind.
“VinePair’s tasting panel evaluates every wine on a 100-point scales based on its aroma, flavors, structure, balance, and quality.” They also “consider whether or not the wine showed typicity for its specific grape or region. The bottles are submitted free of charge with the clear understanding that submission does not guarantee inclusion in the final list of the best rose to buy right now.
Scott Elliff, owner of DuCard Vineyards said “We are honored to be the only Virginia Rosé to be included in this great list, standing side by side esteemed producers from France, Spain, Italy, California, New York and others.”
The 2024 Rosé is described as “This blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot from Central Virginia showing a darker, juicer side of Rosé.
It’s full of ripe strawberries, raspberries, and cherry notes, with just a touch of savory green pepper. This Rosé will shine at summer barbecues, holding its own alongside grilled burgers and charred vegetable skewers.”
The wine is on the tasting menu at DuCard’s now and can be purchased at the tasting room or online.
This post originally published by The Piedmont Journal Recorder at https://pjrnews.com/articles/the-big-pic/ducards-named-one-of-vinepairs-best-roses-for-2025/