Bluestone Vineyard is named after the "bluestone" (a type of limestone) that is a main component within the local soil. It is a family owned and operated vineyard and winery in the Shenandoah Valley AVA.

Curt and Jackie Hartman began planting grapes in 2003 to make wine for personal use. In 2007 they decided to make the vineyard a business. Their two sons are running the winery with Lee Hartman as Winemaker and General Manager and RC Hartman as the Operations Manager. Today, Bluestone Vineyards is producing about 5,000 cases annually.

Each of these two red wines from Bluestone Vineyard recently tied for fourth place in the 2023 Shenandoah Valley Cup.

2021 Bluestone Vineyards Estate Merlot ($26)

This Bluestone Merlot is produced from 100% Merlot grapes that are Estate grown. It is deep garnet in color with aromas of plum, cherry, dried herbs and a hint of smokiness. On the palate, this medium-bodied wine has medium tannin and acidity with flavors of black cherry, white pepper and cedar with a soft-chocolate finish.

2021 Bridgewater Crimson Virginia Red Blend ($26)

The Bridgewater Crimson red blend is made in collaboration with nearby Bridewater College.

This Crimson red blend is a traditional Bordeaux blend of Petit Verdot (50%), Merlot (33%) and Cabernet Franc (17%). It is deep garnet in color with bright red fruit aromas. On the palate, this full-bodied wine has good complexity with rich red fruit flavor and peppery notes. It finishes with spicy notes.

The Shenandoah Valley AVA is producing a bunch of great wines and these are two fine examples from Bluestone Vineyard. These award winning wines are a great value and a great fit as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wines of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Media Samples Provided by Bluestone Vineyard via the Shenandoah Valley Wine Growers Association and Donna White Communications