For two nights in December 2024, 7 Lady Vineyards hosted the Richmond Wine Society for an exclusive wine-pairing event at Dover Hall. The evenings were a harmonious blend of culinary treats from award-winning Chef Leah Randolph, 7LV wines, and the timeless elegance of Dover Hall.
The 7 Lady Vineyards Bubbles Welcome
Guests arrived at 6:00 PM, greeted by the opulent ambiance of Dover Hall. They were treated to two delightful canapés—Mushroom Toast and Caramelized Onion Tart—paired with 7LV’s Brut Reserve served in coupe glasses. 7LV’s sparkling sensation from Moldova is crafted with 90% Feteasca Alba and a cheeky 10% Muscat, using the Charmat method. The estate’s pub bar was also open for those desiring additional beverages like a crisp Martini or perfectly crafted Manhattan. Attendees explored the main level of Dover Hall at their leisure, immersing themselves in the estate’s rich history and architectural grandeur.
An Introduction to 7 Lady Vineyards
At 6:30 PM, guests convened in the grand ballroom, where leadership from the Richmond Wine Society offered opening remarks, setting the stage for the evening’s main event. Following the warm welcomes from Richmond Wine Society Board Members Bill Tatu and Jack Berninger, 7 Lady Vineyards’ owners, Chad Hornik and Jeff Ottaviano, took center stage to guide attendees through a curated tasting of five exceptional wines from their collection paired with Chef Leah’s creations.
The Wine Pairing and Culinary Experience
The tasting session featured five wines, each thoughtfully paired with small plates to enhance the tasting experience:
The debut food pairing was a Red Snapper Ceviche with Coconut Milk, Bell Peppers, and Cilantro paired with 7 Lady Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley, 2023. This crisp and refreshing white wine offered vibrant notes of citrus and tropical fruits, a delight with Chef’s ceviche.
The second pairing was Beef Tartare, Fried Potato Pave, Tomato Aioli, and Fried Caper paired with 7 Lady Vineyards Chardonnay 2022, made from grapes grown in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, where 7 Lady Vineyards leases additional vineyards. This Chardonnay presents a harmonious balance of oak and fruit, with flavors of ripe apple, pear, and a hint of vanilla.
For a bit heartier pairing, Chef Leah matched Short Rib Ravioli with Confit Leek, Shallot Sherry Cream, and Maitake mushrooms with 7 Lady Vineyards, 2022 Pinot Noir from Willamette Valley, CA. This elegant red wine showcases the finesse of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, with delicate notes of cherry, raspberry, and subtle earthy undertones. Both 7 Lady Vineyards' Pinot Noir and the Sauvignon Blanc are examples of 7LV’s philosophy of making wines where the varietals grow best.
The fourth bite was a Seared Lamb Chop with Curry Coconut Sauce and Chive Oil matched with 7 Lady Vineyards, Meritage, Virginia, 2022. 7LV’s Meritage is a Bordeaux-style blend of Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc and offers a complex profile of dark berries, plum, and spice, reflecting the rich terroir of Virginia.
To bring the culinary crowd back down to earth (well, not really) Chef Leah closed the evening with her Pumpkin Spiced Panna Cotta with Bourbon Salted Caramel and Chai Chantilly Cream with 7 Lady Vineyards, 2017 Petit Manseng Dessert wine from the Shenandoah Valley. This unique varietal delights the palate with its luscious notes of tropical fruits, honey, and a balanced acidity, making it a standout in the lineup and a delicious wrap on the evening’s food.
Throughout the five stages of the wine and culinary pairings, Chad and Jeff shared insights into 7 Lady Vineyards’ wine program and portfolio, provided updates on the construction of their upcoming Tasting Room and Waterside Pavilion—slated to open in Fall 2025—and offered information about joining the 7LV Pioneer Wine Club.
Exclusive Opportunities
Following the tasting, Richmond Wine Society members had the exclusive opportunity to purchase wines from the 7 Lady Vineyards portfolio. Staff was also available to assist those interested in signing up for the 7LV Wine Club, providing attendees with a chance to become part of the 7 Lady Vineyards family.
She Said, He Said
Debbie Neimeyer, Richmond Wine Society Board member, stated, “We are asked to organize wine events to enhance our members’ wine experience. It was announced that RWS was sponsoring a 2-night wine event at 7 Lady Vineyards and both nights were well attended with almost 100 members enjoying the experience and introduction to 7LV. I am a member of their wine club and at each event I’ve attended, 7 Lady Vineyards has exceeded my expectations with their selection of fine Virginia wines along with excellent wines from all over the world. Each interaction I’ve had with their staff always creates a warm and welcoming environment. I love recommending their wine club to my family and friends and look forward to their new tasting room.”
Richmond Wine Society member, Mike Shelor, said, “Within the past few years I have had the great pleasure of attending Dover Hall wine pairing events sponsored by the Richmond Wine Society and others. When I learned that Chad and Jeff were starting a wine club for their 7 Lady Vineyards wines, I didn’t hesitate to join as a “Pioneer” member! Through their expertise, they offer an exceptional wine selection that encompasses not only Virginia wines sourced from their estate but also some amazing selections from Napa and Willamette Valley and even globally. I particularly enjoy the opportunity for club members to personalize their quarterly club selection by replacing bottles with other club wines from their extensive offerings!”
Rendering of 7LV Tasting Room to be completed 2025
About 7 Lady Vineyards
Located on 55 beautiful acres at Dover Hall, 7 Lady Vineyards offers Virginia’s award-winning wine experience. Their wine portfolio celebrates premium wines hand-selected from the world’s most notable regions. In 2024, 7LV began constructing a Tasting Room and Event Space on the Dover Hall property to provide a third venue in Dover Hall Experience's hospitality portfolio to offer their unrivaled events paired with intentional service and thoughtful cuisine.
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