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A Bird’s-Eye View of Virginia’s Late Freeze – Our Visit to Capstone Vineyards

Published On 5/20/2026

Capstone Vineyards’ owner and winemaker Theo Smith gave us a special close-up tour of his vineyard and a detailed overview of the challenges he—and many vineyards across the region—regularly face because of the local terroir. He explained that the late freeze and shifting climate conditions this spring have caused some Northern Virginia wineries to lose as much as 70% of their crop. In some cases, vineyards are currently experiencing bud break and grape development simultaneously, creating especially difficult growing conditions.

The standout among the six wines we tasted was the “Sparkling C2,” a Chardonnay/Chenin Blanc blend with a light touch of CO₂ for added fizz.

Theo is a dynamic winemaker who believes the grapes “speak to you” and should be used in their most natural state, with minimal manipulation or additives. When his Merlot grapes struggle because of a late freeze, he adapts creatively—and makes Rose!

Published On 5/20/2026

Somm Circle recently uncorked a remarkable range of Rioja wines, anchored by a thought-provoking 1995 Crianza. Aged beyond its years, the wine had transformed dramatically — amber-hued and aromatic like a tawny port, its fresh fruit long faded into something altogether different. Unusual? Yes. Enjoyable? Absolutely!

The contrast with a 2022 Crianza was striking — vibrant, fruit-forward, and brimming with youth. Rounding out the tasting, a 2020 Reserva and a 2017 Gran Reserva both delivered beautifully, showing the deeper structure and complexity that come with extended aging and elevated classification.

The evening's pairing highlight: the 1995 Crianza found its perfect match in a chocolate olive oil cake with mascarpone frosting and orange zest — a rich, nuanced dessert that embraced the wine's evolved character perfectly.

A night that reminded us why we open old bottles.

Published On 3/2/2026

Somm Circle members were treated to an exceptional afternoon at Arterra Winery, where owner and winemaker Jason Murray opened his cellar doors for an intimate tour and tasting. A small, family-run operation rooted in a deep respect for the land, Arterra is a testament to what thoughtful, minimalist winemaking can achieve right here in Northern Virginia.

Jason walked guests through his philosophy of letting the terroir speak for itself, explaining how specific grape varieties thrive in the region's unique climate and why he lets that natural character guide his craft rather than overpower it. His passion for the place and the process was evident in every glass.

The standout? A special off-menu pour of his Roussanne — a crowd favorite that had everyone reaching for a second taste.

If you missed this event, do yourself a favor and put Arterra Winery on your list. It's the kind of place — and the kind of winemaker — that reminds you why ou fell in love with wine in the first place

Published On 2/1/2026

Despite frigid temperatures and an unexpected remote format, Somm Circle's Ukrainian wine tasting proved that great wine and meaningful stories can warm even the coldest winter evening.

The event, held at the distinguished DACOR Bacon House in downtown Washington, DC, brought together wine enthusiasts for an exploration of Ukraine's emerging wine scene. Though SPYRT Worldwide Founder Sam Lerman was unable to attend in person due to illness, his virtual presence added an intimate touch as he shared the compelling story behind his mission to bring Ukrainian wines to American tables.

Guests sampled six distinctive wines that showcased Ukraine's winemaking potential. Three expressions of Telti-Kuruk, a native Ukrainian grape variety that offered attendees a taste of the country's indigenous viticulture.Three selections from different lines of SHABO wines, demonstrating the range and quality of Ukrainian red wine production.

Here's to many more memorable Somm Circle gatherings ahead.

Published On 11/30/2025

Somm Circle's November 23rd tasting at Pearmund Cellars was far more than just a wine tasting—it was a masterclass in Virginia winemaking. Hosted by owner Chris Pearmund himself in the atmospheric barrel room, the experience offered both exceptional wines and invaluable insights into the region's viticultural heritage.

We sampled six thoughtfully selected Pearmund wines, with standouts including their old vine Chardonnay and a special treat: their port-style wine. But what truly elevated the evening was Chris's knowledge and passion for Virginia wine. He walked us through the history of Pearmund Cellars, home to Virginia's oldest vines, and painted a fascinating picture of how winemaking has evolved in the Commonwealth.

The barrel room setting added a wonderful ambience to the tasting, making us feel truly immersed in the winemaking process. By the end of the evening, we left not only having enjoyed excellent wines but having gained a deeper appreciation for Virginia viticulture.

Welcome to Somm Circle!

When DMV Wine Explorers launched in April 2021, the vision was simple: bring people together to share a love of wine. As the meetup group grew, something special began to emerge—while some members enjoyed casual gatherings, others were seeking something deeper. They wanted community.

From that group of wine enthusiasts, a true community took root. Friendships formed over shared bottles. Conversations evolved from "what do you taste?" to "when's our next adventure?" Small gatherings naturally emerged—intimate explorations of different wine regions, deeper dives into varietals and winemaking, and even wine-focused travel.

That's how Somm Circle was born.

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