Trump Winery: Glitz or an Overlooked Gem?

If you, like Thomas Jefferson, appreciate a fine glass of wine, then you know that Charlottesville is a mecca for wine connoisseurs. As proprietors of Foxfield Inn, we are often asked for our recommendations for local wineries to visit. There are a plethora of wineries from which to choose, among them Trump Winery, one of the relative newcomers.

From the moment you enter  Trump Winery, you are made to feel welcome, as the tasting bar is right at the front door.

Some may shy away from Trump because of the owner’s controversial reputation, but if you are among them, you may be doing yourself a disservice. Just a short drive from town, Trump Winery greets you with pristine grounds and an inviting setting. Once inside, you are welcomed by warm ambiance, and good food and wine.

Although the sparkling white and rosé were very good, the pinot noir and New World Reserve were our favorites, and we ordered a glass of each to accompany our lunch, which was superb. Unfortunately, not all wineries offer a hot meal, but Trump Winery does, which is a nice touch.

The ambiance at Trump is reminiscent of a fine library, with walls of beautiful paneling which showcase the many offerings.

On our recent visit, I ordered the crab cakes, which, unlike most portions elsewhere, were very generous and just delicious. At only $16, they are also a great value.

And the presentation was in keeping with the quality of the food; two crab cakes resting on a bed of arugula drizzled with a honey-mustard vinaigrette, the meal was as appealing as it was delicious. There was just enough drizzle to entice, yet not overpower the wonderful balance of crab with greens. Kudos to the chef!

The crab cakes at Trump Winery are not to be missed.

Other items on the menu include:

• Local Virginia Cheese Plates: a selection of five cheeses from Caromont Farm, Everona Dairy, and Meadowcreek Dairy, served with house-made thyme-roasted walnuts and warm baguette ($20)

• Charcuterie: a selection of cured meats, Dijon, pickled vegetables, served with a warm baguette, and

• Rockbarn Pizza, made with marinara sauce, Rockbarn sausage, slice prosciutto and shredded fontina ($12), to name a few. And since the menu changes quarterly, you can visit Trump Winery frequently and not get bored.

So if you, like Mr. Jefferson, appreciate a fine glass of wine with wonderful food, check out Trump Winery. It’s an often overlooked gem in Charlottesville’s wine crown!

Santé!

Dan & Kathryn Bundy
Innkeepers at Foxfield Inn