Behind The Counter: Jordi Paronella, Wine Director of José Andrés Group

Jordi Paronella, a native of Barcelona, grew up in a family with a deep passion for wine. After completing his studies in Hospitality and Restaurant Management, he pursued his interest in wine at the Escuela de Enologia d’Espielles. His education paved the way for a distinguished career as a sommelier in some of the most celebrated Michelin-starred restaurants around Barcelona, including Restaurant Abac, Restaurant Moo, and the iconic Cal Xim.
 

In 2013, Jordi made the move to the U.S., taking on the role of Lead Sommelier for José Andrés’ Spanish concepts. By 2020, he had advanced to Wine Director for the entire José Andrés Group. While he remains deeply connected to the wines of his homeland, he is equally passionate about wines from around the world that embody a strong sense of place and terroir — like the wines coming out of Virginia. Jordi is adamant that Virginia wines are worthy of a world-class designation. 
Of course, we wanted to know more — trust us, you do too. 
Virginia Wine: A World-Class Destination, Not Just an Emerging Region A Q&A with Jordi Paronella, Wine Director of José Andrés Group

Virginia is often referred to as an emerging wine region. Do you agree with that assessment, or would you say it’s more established?
JP: Virginia is absolutely NOT an "upcoming" wine region—it’s already an established one! The quality and diversity of wines being produced here are phenomenal, and it's time we give Virginia the credit it deserves as a world-class wine destination. Just look at RdV Vineyards—the recent acquisition by Château Montrose, one of Bordeaux’s premier estates, speaks volumes. This isn't just recognition from a top global wine player; it's proof that Virginia has firmly arrived on the world wine stage.
 

Can you give us some examples of standout Virginia wineries that are already creating world-class wines?
JP: Absolutely! One of the premier examples is Crimson Lane Vineyards. Their winemaker, Dominique Fioresi, is crafting wines that rival the best in the world. His attention to detail, passion for the land, and commitment to excellence are evident in every bottle. The experience at Crimson Lane is not just about tasting world-class wines, though. It’s the breathtaking landscape, the intimate, personalized tasting experiences, and the feeling of being part of something exceptional. Whether you’re walking through their stunning vineyards or enjoying a private tasting, you’ll quickly realize that Crimson Lane is a premier destination for anyone serious about discovering Virginia’s finest wines. 
Another gem is Linden Vineyards. Jim Law has been pioneering exceptional wines in Virginia for decades, and his dedication to terroir-driven winemaking is unparalleled. At The Bazaar by José Andrés, we aim to showcase the potential of aging with old vintages of Linden wines and Lost Mountain wines, demonstrating their remarkable evolution over time.
Beyond these, there are other great wineries making waves in the region. Early Mountain, Barboursville, and Ankida Ridge are all doing exceptional work, each contributing to Virginia’s reputation as a world-class wine region. Whether it's Early Mountain’s dedication to elevating the Virginia wine scene, Barboursville’s classic Italian influence, or Ankida Ridge’s impressive cool-climate wines, the future of Virginia wine is incredibly bright.
 

How do you see Virginia wine fitting into the larger landscape of American wine regions?

JP: Virginia is becoming a true force in the American wine landscape. While places like Napa and Oregon have dominated the conversation, Virginia is now being recognized for its own unique terroir and style. The diversity of climate and soils here allows for the production of an array of different wine styles, from elegant reds to expressive whites. What I love most is how Virginia wines often combine Old World finesse with New World innovation. They have character, depth, and a sense of place that is incredibly compelling for wine lovers.
 

For someone visiting Virginia wine country for the first time, what should they expect?
JP: Expect to be wowed! Virginia wine country offers a mix of scenic beauty, history, and, of course, incredible wines. The wineries here aren’t just about tasting rooms—they’re about experiences. Whether it’s a tour through the vineyards of the former RdV now Lost Mountain, a tasting flight at Crimson Lane, or a deep dive into the meticulously crafted wines at Linden, visitors will leave with a newfound appreciation for Virginia’s place in the world of wine. And beyond the wine, there’s a rich food culture developing alongside it. It's a perfect destination for wine lovers looking for a new and exciting region to explore.
 

What makes Virginia’s terroir unique, and how does it influence the style of wines produced here?
JP: Virginia’s terroir is incredibly diverse, which is one of the region’s greatest strengths. You have everything from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the rolling hills of Piedmont, and that variety in elevation, soil composition, and microclimates allows winemakers to experiment and craft wines with remarkable complexity. The influence of the Atlantic also brings a cooling effect, helping to balance acidity, especially in reds. The result is wines that are vibrant, elegant, and full of character. You can taste the sense of place in every sip, whether it’s a Bordeaux-style blend from RdV or a perfectly balanced Chardonnay from Linden. The terroir here isn’t just unique; it’s a signature that sets Virginia wines apart from the rest.
 

How do you think Virginia wine will continue to grow in the next 5 to 10 years?
JP: The momentum is unstoppable! We’re already seeing top winemakers being drawn to the region, new vineyard investments, and an increased focus on sustainability and innovation. As more people discover what Virginia has to offer, both in terms of wine quality and wine tourism, I think the region will continue to expand its influence not just nationally but globally. With winemakers pushing boundaries, we’re going to see even more attention coming Virginia’s way. This is a region that’s not just here to stay—it’s here to lead.