Archives for June 2019

Big Cork Vineyards has been invited to showcase their Russian Kiss wine at the Russian Consulate to celebrate Russia Day June 12 in Washington, D.C.

The winery makes a one-of-a-kind wine using three Russian varietals that are only identifieable by letters and numbers. The three varietals are blended with Muscat Canelli. The wines coming together symbolize a kiss.

Winemaker David Collins first learned of the existence of the grapes from Dr. Joseph Fiola, small fruit specialist, University of Maryland.

Big Cork Vineyards has won numerous awards both regionally and nationally for the wine, earning a 92 point rating from the 2018 San Francisco International Wine Competition, Best in Class 2018 Maryland Governor’s Cup, and Best In Class 2019 Maryland Comptroller’s Cup.

Over the last year the Russian media has been increasingly interested in the story of the wine and the unique grapes. Channel One Russian, BBC Russia and Voice of America Russia have all reported on and interviewed Collins about the wine. Additionally Fanagoria, one of Russia’s largest wine producers has also taken an interest in the vines.

All of this coverage prompted the Russian Embassy to contact the Maryland winery and invite them to their June 12 celebration. 

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