A Tribute to Our Beloved Buddy
April 25, 2012
Our beloved family pet, Buddy, who is featured on the winery labels and throughout the winery, has passed at age 15. He will be remembered so proudly by our family and those of you who had the opportunity to meet this amazing little guy. He was an amazing companion and friend - and he lives on in the many many memories our family has of him! He lived a great life and loved the be in the sun at the winery in the vineyard. We will be erecting a memorial in the next few weeks in homage of him (and his brother Duke, who passed in November). This is a very difficult and sensitive time for all of us right now. Please keep our family in your thoughts and prayers
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New White Wines Released
March 23, 2012
New White Wines released in time for the warm weekend weather:
2009 Pinot Grigio (Single Varietal)
2007 Virginia Chardonnay
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Buddy Turns 15
February 24, 2012
Our beloved family pet and mascot, Buddy, turns 15 years old today. In celebration of his big day, this weekend we will release the final cases of Buddys Bistro Red, our red wine produced in homage of Buddy. This is the last vintage that this wine was produced, so don’t miss out!
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2009 Petit Verdot Cellar Collection
JUST RELEASED
February 16, 2012
Petit Verdot anecdotally has been regarded as a variety without a home, a grape that never truly found the perfect climate and soil to marry with. While identified as one of the five noble Bordeaux Varietals, it has somehow slipped into obsecurity, typically grown in small quantities regardless of geography, and often slandered with the mention - it is a blending grape. However, Chateau OBrien is proud to be a leader in producing the highest quality of wines with Petit Verdot as a single varietal And Virginia may come to recognize the potential of this grape as one of the premier varietals for the mid-atlantic region.
At Chateau OBrien the Petit Verdot vines meet with the same vigilant viticulture practices applied to all our vineyards, yet Petit Verdot likes to keep you on your toes. One season it may be one of the first varieties fully ripened and harvested; while other seasons it may hang until near the final picking. The ability to properly ripen this vines fruit regardlessof a given seasons weather pattern is made possible only by the highest standards of viticulture management. And, with a well timed harvest, and optimal winery practices, the resulting wine will explode with body and flavor.
Our 2009 Petit Verdot was destemmed and crushed, and the allowed to undergo a spontaneous un-inoculated indigenous yeast fermentation - no yeast was added - the fermentation was a result of yeasts symbiotically existing on the skin of the grape at the time of harvest in the vineyard. Sound fermentation, extended maceration, and extended lees aging, result in an excitingly full bodied wine, with a huge front pallot that hits the mouth with volume reminiscent of an oncoming train. Yet somehow the wine maintains elegance and grace, broad and round mouthfeel from the indigenous yeast, and beautifully clean silky finish. As always - this Petit Verdot shows the opulent dark rich flavors that are the signature of Chateau OBrien reds, yet pronounces a distinct intensity of ripe tannin
Simply put - this wine is fabulous!!!!
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2009 Cabernet Franc Cellar Collection
February 16, 2012
The 2008 Cabernet Franc Cellar Collection is intriguing and inspiring. This dark and lush red shows how well this grape matches the Virginia terroir. Smooth, round, and delightfully complex, this wine is a glorious example of the potential of Cabernet Franc.
After two years in French Oak Barrels, it is now ready for your wine cellar. Supplies are extremely limited so dont wait!
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2009 Syrah Celllar Collection Released
January 22, 2012
Reminiscent of the Northern Rhone valley, this Syrah has elegance and finesse, backed by depth and complexity. Our single edition Syrah is available for a limited time and will be a rare and unique addition to any cellar. 15 cases only!
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2008 Cabernet Franc is SOLD OUT
January 22, 2012
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2008 Vintners Reserve - Now Released
Limited Production
September 19, 2011
A top-tier and truly profound red blend of only the finest vineyard blocks and barrel selections. Fabulously limited production quantities ensure only the finest components enter this wine and are blended with proportional perfection to create this brilliant Red Wine.
This exquisite red wine is produced with a little over a third each of Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Tannat.
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2008 Cabernet Franc Cellar Collection Released
July 25, 2011
Announcing the release of our 2009 Cellar Cabernet Franc. Intriguing and inspiring, this dark and lush red shows how well this grape matches the Virginia terroir. Smooth, round, and delightfully complex, this wine is a glorious example of the potential of Cabernet Franc. After two years in French Oak Barrels, it is now ready for your wine cellar. Supplies are extremely limited so dont wait!
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2009 Petit Manseng Released
Limited Production
May 23, 2011
Just in Time for Summer! Enjoy A full bodied white wine, erupting with crisp yet concentrated fruit expression, and offering a lingering yet clean finish. Petit Manseng is truly at home in the Northern Virginia climate, ripening latest among the white varietals, under ideal cool conditions conducive to full development of body and flavor.
More Notes on Petit Manseng:
Petit Manseng is a very interesting grape variety. This grape has a distinct lemon and fruit flavour, plenty of presence, which carries the touch of sweetness. At first the aroma is just another light, fairly simple dry style white, but then it reveals some interesting hidden subtleties. The bouquet starts up with yeasty sur-lie hints, evolving some honeysuckle, pear and fruit aromas. It’s delicate in the mouth with firm acidity and hint of sweetness, finishing clean, dry and well balanced.
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Chateau O’Brien Voted Best Winery/Winebar
March 01, 2011
After reviewing wine bars and wineries in the DC Metropolitan Area, Chateau O’Brien was selected as one of the top 5 finalists for the Best Winebar/Winery of 2011. On-line voting for the finalist took place through February 27, 2011 and Chateau O’Brien is named the WINNER. http://dc.metromix.com/bars-and-clubs/best-of-award/winery-or-wine-bar/2449090/content
Other nominees were Proof Wine Bar (DC), Cork Wine Bar (DC), Veramar Winery (Berryville) and Barrel Oak (Delaplane).
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Virginia Apple Wine Featured on Loudoni.com
October 04, 2010
Elaine Jean writes for loudoni.com Day Tripper. A few weeks ago, we have the pleasure of hosting her and her husband Paul, during their Day Tripper to apple country. After visiting the Stribling Apple Orchard, they visited Chateau O’Brien to experience the Virginia Apple Wine.
Read more about their trip at http://www.loudouni.com/people/2010-09-23/day-tripper-apples-apples-apples
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2007 Vintage Highlights
August 17, 2010
Winemaker, Jason Murray, offers his thoughts on the 2007 vintage
Download Event Info |
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From the Vine to the Classroom Fundraiser
July 14, 2010
The O’Brien family is partnering with the Louisiana Charter Boat Fisheman’s Association to raise school supplies for the children of families affected by the gulf oil spill. Mr. Carpenter, President of the LCBA, said had received numerous offers to assist his organization and had yet to accept an offer until now. He said the winery was the first to offer him a way to help his members and their families without expecting anything in return. We expressed to Mr. Carpenter that it’s not the O’Brien family alone, who has met the need of many local and national organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity, Diamond Dream Foundation, La Clinica del Pueblo, American Red Cross, UNICEF, and Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. We made positive that he knew we had always succeeded because of the generosity of our winery guests and our family and friends. We hope you will join us in helping others once again!
In the lower Louisiana Parishes, there is an estimated 1,000 students, who have either one or both of their parents affected due to the gulf oil spill. This is the region which was hit hardest and by working with the LCBA and other local community organizations, we are going to guarantee these families receive the school supplies we collect! Our family feels moved to help these families and hopes you will support and join in this effort.
If you are interested in donating supplies, a colllection site has been set up at the winery at 3238 Rail Stop Road, Markham VA, 22643 (physical address, not mailing address). For every donation ($5 value or more), you will receive a FREE WINE TASTING. If you are interested in setting up a collection site at your business, organization, etc, we can provide you complimentary wine tasting cards to give your donors, as well. Contact Mrs. O’Brien at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). We are also willing to accept any used or unpackaged supplies and business imprinted items (pens, pencils, markers, etc) - because every item counts! If you are interesting in making a donation and are not in Northern VA, you can make a donation (supplies or monetary) to Chateau O’Brien Winery, 13608 Cedar Run Lane, Oak Hill, VA 20171 (mailing addres only)
We have already begun purchasing supplies (see below for a list) but plan to match every supply and monetary donation made by our guests. In advance, we thank you for your support of the FROM THE VINE TO THE CLASSROOM fundraiser! The O’Brien Family
PURCHASED TO DATE: 350 boxes (24 pack) of crayons, 1,700 pencils, 2,500 pens, 900 erasers, 150 boxes of markers, 200 (12 pack) boxes of colored pencls, 200 packages of filler paper, 300 glue bottles, 100 pencil cases, 25, pencil boxes, 210 composition notebooks, 200 - ,one subject spiral notebooks, 600 two pocket folders, 100 scissors, 200 rulers, 50 protractors, 100 highlighters 50 Webster’s Dictionaries, 100 packages of 3 x 5 notecards, 100 3 x 3 post it notes, 45 three ring binders, 50 packages of construction paper, 50 packages of dry erase markers, 125 packages of Wet Wipes , 100 Hand Sanitizers, 50 Gallon zip lock bags, 50 Quart zip lock bags, 30 lunchboxes, 15 back packs, and 50 boxes of toothpaste.
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15% Active Military Discount
June 04, 2010
To show our sincere gratitude for the extraordinary sacrifice of the servicemen/women of our country, the OBrien family offers a 15% discount and a free winery souvenir logo glass to all active duty military personnel.
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Early Budbreak in the Vineyard
April 30, 2010
Bud break started early on the Northpoint vineyard this year This is the time when you first see the tiny little leaves open out. It began at the top of the slopes of the vineyard and within a few weeks has reached the vines on the flat of the slopes. Early spring is a lovely time to see all that regrowth of vines on the vineyard. We have been looking at the dormant vines since November and are now seeing signs of new life on the vineyard!
There couldn’t be a more perfect time to visit the winery and check out the newly covered deck and addition of the outdoor flagstone patio area, which are NOW OPEN.
Why is Budbreak so Important?
The annual growth of grapevines starts with budbreak in the spring. The type of grape and the soil temperature both impact budbreak. Vines grown in warmer soils will begin to bud earlier than those grown in cooler soils. and the degree to which the soil type retains heat is also very important. Cooler soils - especially clay, which is commonly found in Virginia - will delay budbreak, while rockier, warmer soils will accelerate it. The type of varietal also has an impact on when budbreak will occur. Typically white varietals will begin growth before red varietals.
If budbreak occurs too early, the immature shoots may be vulnerable to frost damage during spring. However, if budbreak occurs too late, the grapes may not have enough time to fully ripen. In this case, the grower will have to make the decision to let the grapes hang during the fall, making them susceptible to frost and rain that can damage the crop at the end of the growing season.
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Gifts from the Heart
December 18, 2009
During our annual holiday open house, the winery sponsored a toy drive. Many of you inquired what organization we were supporting - to which we explained that each we identify an organization that has a shortage in donations. This year, we learned of an organization called La Clinica del Pueblo, which provide healthcare services to communities regardless of their ability to pay. We also learned they provide many other services such as parenting, wellness, and healthcare education services, as well as their annual toy drive and other communities outreach efforts. They were in need of approximately 400 gifts for children and money to provide a meal to each family member on the evening of their gift distribution. In less than one week, winery guests donated over 125 gifts, which the O’Brien family matched. We also received monetary donations from many customers and the Diamond Dream Foundation donated $200 for food and brand new baseball equipment (20 gloves, 100 baseballs, 8 bats, and 10 sets of batting gloves).
What a blessing this was to an organization that had only received less than one hundred gifts with very little time to spare before the night gifts were to be distributed. However, La Clinica del Pueblo’s employees were determined to reach out so no family would leave without a warm meal and a gift for each of their children.
Mrs. O’Brien had the pleasure of attending the gift distribution and meeting the clinic director and many employees and volunteers, who informed her that we had help raise over 500 gifts! Everyone thanked the O’Brien family, to which Mrs. O’Brien recognized the overwhelming generous and sincere hearts of their winery guests - and extension to their family. It is with deep appreciation that each of you is thanked for helping make sure these children had holiday filled with happiness!
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Ambassador of Ireland Visit
September 25, 2009
On September 12th, the Ambassador of Ireland, H.E. Michael Collins, accompanied by his wife, surprised the O’Briens and their guests with a visit to the winery. Mr. Collins has previously been invited to the winery to participate in the release of Irelands own, Lily O’Briens Chocolate.
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Chateau O’Brien Pours at Great Grapes in Reston
September 12, 2009
Chateau O’Brien at Northpoint participated in the fall Great Grapes Wine Festival at the Reston Town Center on September 12th & 13th. The 2006 Virginia Chardonnay, 2006 Northpoint Red, 2007 Northpoint Rose, and 2008 Virginia Apple Wine were poured at the event. During tastings at the winery, the O’Briens use crystal glasses and change between the white, reds, and sweeter varietals - which is impossible at any festival. Still, in an effort to stay true to providing a good customer experience, they provided a rinse with filtered water and gourmet bread for cleansing the palette. When visitors purchased wine from Chateau O’Brien they were also offered baguettes and Irish cheese that could be enjoyed in the wineries hospitality tent that overlooked the stage where the band performed. Thank you to all who stopped by and visited the winery’s tent!
And special thank you to Baguete Republic located in Chantilly, Virginia, who freshly prepared the gourmet each morning for our guests. To learn more about the bakery, please visit: http://www.baguetterepublic.com
Enjoy the pictures!
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2008 Apple Wine Released
September 11, 2009
The 2008 Virginia Apple wine has been released. The previous vintages had been bottled in a 375 ml. However, after consistently hearing the request to put the Apple Wine in a larger size bottle, we listened and delivered. The new 2008 vintage was bottled in a 500 ml and is now available.
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Irish Chocolates Come to Virginia
September 05, 2009
CHOCOLATE LOVERS - Ireland brings decadent, mouth-watering chocolates to Virginia! On September 5th, 2009, the Irish fused chocolate and wine at Chateau OBrien at Northpoint Winery and Vineyard in Markham, Virginia.
Lily OBriens was founded in 1992 by Mary Ann OBrien, who had been in marketing. A baby, Lily, kept her at home, so she started making chocolates. She now imports chocolate from around the globe and has a plant in County Kildare that churns out 60 tons of chocolates a week.
This spring, Lily OBriens expanded the company into the United States, opening a chocolate cafe in Bryant Park, New York, the first with more planned. The store is managed and owned, by Cathal Queally, who joined the OBriens, and many chocolate loving guests, for an official release and sampling of the Lily OBriens chocolates
Assorted prepackaged boxes are now available for purchase Chateau OBrien and shipments options are also available.
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New Red Varietals Released
August 22, 2009
The reserve tasting room has reopened and the long awaited 2006 Limited Reserve Tannat and the 2006 Northpoint Red Cellar Collection are both available for tasting and purchasing. Reserve tastings do not require an appointment and these wines are poured on Saturday and Sunday only.
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Invitation to Exclusive Workshop
August 03, 2009
Twenty wineries, in regions ranging from Long Island to Northern Virginia, were invited to participate in an exclusive workshop focusing on Bordeaux red blends. Chateau O’Brien at Northpoint was one of only three Virginia wineries invited to partake in the seminar. The selected wineries were chosen based on sharing a similar terroir, but more importantly, for their unwavering commitment to quality and focus on matching soil and climate conditions leading to the production of rich well balanced wines.
The overall goal of the seminar was to measure current quality and value and to learn from each other how to make wines better. Kees van Leeuwen, the director of viticulture at Chateau Cheval Blanc in St Emilion participated in this workshop by bringing his unique knowledge and experience to the tastings and discussions. Jason Murray, Chateau O’Brien at Northpoint Expert Winemaker, was paid accolades by workshop organizers and said to have been “a major contributor at the workshop.”
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The O’Brien’s Visit Ireland
May 03, 2009
Just home from our trip to Ireland, we wanted to share our experience with you. We journeyed to Ireland in search of the farmhouse cheese makers, who produce the exclusive Irish cheese served at Chateau O’Brien at Northpoint. We had the wonderful pleasure of spending time with two families - who received us with overwhelming hospitality and gave us an up-close and personal look into their family history, as well as the cheese making process. We have a new found appreciation of their exquisite farmhouse cheeses we serve and were taken back by the generational family involvement of their businesses.
Also, while at Cahill, Mrs. Cahill mentioned that one of her sons lived in Northern Virginia. You can imagine our surprise, as we questioned whether or not we had heard her clearly - Northern Virginia?!?! In fact, she had said this. Shortly after returning from our trip, we had the pleasure of meeting her son, Dave Cahill, at the Four Courts Irish Pub, which he manages in Arlingon, VA ( http://www.irelandsfourcourts.com ) Yes, what a small world! If you are in the area, please drop in and say hello to Dave!
We express our sincere thanks to the Cahill (Cahill Farmhouse Cheeses) and the Willems (Coolea Cheese Farm) families for welcoming us so warmly! Please enjoy the photo gallery of our trip.
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Chili at the Chateau
September 22, 2007
Kicking off the fall, guests enjoyed three amazing chilies - Smoked Anchos and Buddy?s Bistro Red Seared Tenderloin Chili, Smoked Pork and Guinness Chili, and Sweet and Zesty Apple Wine Vegetarian Chili
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St. Patrick’s Day at Chateau O’Brien
March 17, 2007
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