Barnstorming

     On Friday, November 8, season 5 of the PoLo Wine Club of VA quest to visit every winery in the state of VA began in earnest.  We met in Leesburg and headed for our 152nd winery visit since November 2008.  If there's one thing we've learned, it's that expectations are rarely accurate.  In this case, I don't believe we were expecting much one way or another from The Barns at Hamilton Station Vineyards.
     We had been in touch with Kim, one of the owners, and we knew they had music and food.  Originally, we had hoped to visit two wineries on the 8th, but the POs and the LOs didn't meet up with each other until after 6:00, so we figured we'd only have time for one.  Music and food was a big incentive, so off to the Barns we went.
     When we arrived, it was dark, dark, dark outside.  We pulled in beside an old house and were surprised at the large number of cars in the driveway.  There was a chill in the air as we maneuvered through the dark parking area and headed toward a large barn still with its original silo.
     Upon entering we were greeted with the sounds and smells of a busy winery evening at the Barns.  A guitarist was singing over by the fireplace.  Patrons were scattered around at tables eating chicken pot pie, salad, and whatever wine they thought paired best.  A few small groups were doing tastings on or around the bar.
     We bellied up near the far side of the bar, and we met Ashton, a young aspiring teacher who began our tasting while also serving another group.  Soon, Charlie, an amiable sort who fit right in with our corny sense of humor, took over the pouring duties.  I think Mike scared him a little when he took out THE BOOK and started asking him THE QUESTIONS.  He did fine spouting off facts and figures about this relatively new winery, while we sipped Chardonnay, Viognier, Cab Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and a wondeful Meritage.
    Charlie introduced us to the owners: Kim and her husband Craig and their partner Andrew (absent was Andrew's wife, Mary Ann).  From there, the real fun began.  After pouring a full glass of our favorites (most opted for the light but fruity Cab Franc -- I, for the deep, rich Petit Verdot) Craig and Andrew gave us a personalized tour of their winery.  We learned all about how they met 30 years ago, how they transformed the old barn into an amazing facility, and how their vision has changed and still is with more changes to come.  Their personal stories were funny, warm, and inspiring.  By the time we refilled our glasses, we felt like we were all old friends.
     The Barns has only been opened a few months, but they already have a large, loyal following.  Some wineries attract you with their ambiance.  For others, it's all about the wine.  The Barns has it all.  This is definitely a place where one visit won't be enough.