2025 Bull Run Chardonnay, Rock Mill Estate Vineyard, Little Washington, Virginia

The nose of the 2025 straw-colored and crisp Chardonnay delivers scents of pear, apple, apple blossoms with hints of citrus minerality. The palate is fruit forward with flavors of tart Granny Smith apples, poached pear and a hint of lemon peel and honey. Its balanced and acidity and minerality provide a refreshingly tart snappy finish. 

The Winery at Bull Run is established as a scenic, historic working farm vineyard spanning 225 acres in Centreville, Virginia. Bordering the Manassas National Battlefield Park, the estate holds the distinction of being the largest operating farm in Fairfax County. The property is deeply intertwined with American history, featuring an on-site museum displaying over 200,000 authentic Civil War artifacts and the preserved stone foundations of the historic Hillwood Mansion. This rich regional heritage mirrors the focus of Head Winemaker Kendell Anderson, a prominent Black winemaker, who highlights Virginia's agricultural strengths through the winery's signature 2023 Cabernet Franc.  Founding owners, Jon and Kimberly Hickox and their daughters are DMV natives and building a legacy of innovation while honoring the historical lands surrounding their farm.

Before entering the wine industry, Anderson was a standout running back for the College of William & Mary and was invited to the Atlanta Falcons training camp in 2017. After a career-ending injury, he pivoted to viticulture, gaining experience as a Cellar Master at Stone Tower Winery before joining The Winery at Bull Run as Assistant Winemaker in December 2022. He was promoted to Head Winemaker just one year later.