It was Gianni Zonin who first brought Gabriele Rausse to Virginia's shores. He was there to oversee Barboursville Vineyards. Since then, Rausse has had his hand in more than 100 different vineyards and wineries across the state. A renowned viticulturist and winemaker, Rausse played a pivotal role in establishing the modern Virginia wine industry, especially during the 1970s and 1980s. Some of his contributions were made at White Hall Vineyards, Blenheim Vineyards, Afton Mountain Vineyards, and many others.
Rausse is from Vicenza, Italy. Zonin asked Rausse to come to America with him to plant European Vitis Vinifera grapes. After searching for land and terroir upon their arrival, Zonin and Rausse discovered the property that is now Barboursville Vineyards. “It was like Mr. Jefferson was smiling down on us, saying this was where we would change history,” Rausse says.
In the intervening years Rausse went on to establish his own winery, as well helping others to plant theirs. He is considered the Godfather of Virginia wine.
I recently had a Gabriele Russe Malbec Turk Mountain Vineyards 2020. It's 100% Malbec. It was hand-harvested in lugs, destemmed, sorted, and pressed. It was fermentation in stainless steel, with two to three punch-downs per day. 100% aged in French oak barrels for about 9 months (25% 4-year old barrel and 75% 5-year old barrels). Malolactic fermentation was done in barrel. Hand bottled. 99 cases produced.
This lovely medium bodied dry red was incredible All the jammy notes, with stewed red fruits, and a touch of prune and plum, was absolutely delicious! And the fruit lasted a long, long time on the palate.
The Godfather of Virginia wine is alive and well. And his Malbec is outstanding.
Photo of Rausse courtesy of Virginia Wine