Petit Manseng, Michael Shaps, Monticello, Virginia, 2016

Vital Signs: Petit Manseng is a white varietal native to southwestern France (particularly Jurançon). It is most commonly vinified as a richly sweet wine with stonefruit characters such as peach and apricot, citrus and sweet spice. Its ability to retain acidity as it ripens also makes it a perfect fit for dry wines from warm, continental climates like Virginia's.

Uncle Bill's Take: Anton Ego said: "There are times when a critic truly risks something, and that is in the discovery and defense of the new." Why risk nothing with California Chardonnay when you can champion Virginia Petit Manseng?! Michael is a phenomenally talented winemaker, and this is a cause worth embracing.