At Camp Cardinal’s Virginia Wine Camp, guests have the unique opportunity to meet the talented winemakers behind some of the best wines in the Commonwealth. This week, we’re spotlighting Justin Rose, the head winemaker at Rosemont of Virginia, a family-owned and operated vineyard known for its award-winning wines and deep-rooted passion for Virginia viticulture.
A Legacy in Every Bottle
Justin Rose grew up surrounded by the rich agricultural traditions of his family’s estate in southern Virginia. His journey into winemaking began with a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Virginia, and he originally planned to pursue pharmaceutical research. However, a love for the land and a desire to carry on his family’s legacy led him to study viticulture and oenology at Napa Valley College. Justin’s background allowed him to complete the two-year Viticulture and Winery Technology program in 10 months – a feat that involved balancing Intro to Winemaking and Advanced Winemaking courses in the same semester.
After honing his craft in Napa Valley with internships at O’Shaughnessy Estate Winery and Capiaux Cellars, Justin returned home to help oversee the final construction of Rosemont Vineyards, his family’s 27-acre vineyard and winery, located in LaCrosse, and is now responsible for their nearly 7,000 annual case production of estate-grown fruit. The past president of the Virginia Wineries Association brings with him a wealth of knowledge and a dedication to creating Rosemont’s premium handcrafted wines, all of which are 100% estate-grown, produced, and bottled on the estate.
Crafting Award-Winning Virginia Wines
Justin’s approach to winemaking is a blend of science, tradition, and innovation. At Rosemont, he focuses on hand-crafted wines that highlight the unique characteristics of Virginia’s climate and soil. His commitment to sustainable practices and meticulous vineyard management ensures that each vintage tells the story of the land it comes from.
Rosemont’s signature red, white and sparkling wines have received acclaim for their balance, complexity, and depth, including a Best in Category at the 2024 Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition for the 2023 Block A Chardonel and the Virginia Governor’s Cup Gold Medal for the 2022 Kilravock, 2022 Traminette, and Extra Brut Sparkling Rosé. Rosemont’s 2022 Extra Brut Sparkling Rosé won “Rosé of the Year” at the 2024 Sommeliers Choice Awards in Chicago.
Justin’s passion for experimenting with new varietals and winemaking techniques continues to push the boundaries of Virginia wine, earning Rosemont a reputation as a standout in the state’s growing wine scene. In 2020, his peers voted him Virginia Wine Person of the Year.
Experience Virginia Wine with Justin Rose
At Virginia Wine Camp in June, Justin Rose will share insights into his winemaking philosophy, the challenges and rewards of working with Virginia’s unique terroir, and what it takes to craft wines that stand the test of time. Guests will have the rare opportunity to taste his wines, hear his stories, and gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind every bottle.
Join us at Camp Cardinal to Meet the Makers like Justin Rose, and experience the passion, craftsmanship, and incredible flavors that define Virginia wine. Cheers to great wine and great company!
2025 Virginia Wine Camp Schedule:
- June 20-21, 2025: Rosemont of Virginia
- July 11-12, 2025: Gauthier Vineyard
- September 19-20, 2025: Silver Hand Meadery
Learn more and book now at campcardinalrvresort.com/virginia-wine-camp.
