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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.

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.