Shenandoah Vineyards Blog

Christmas Openhouse Visitors

2010-12-09T14:56:00.001-05:00

Blaise and Ben Nelson stopped by on their way to a formal event during our Christmas Openhouse, that was held December 4th and 5th. Our openhouse, which kicked-off the holiday season, featured mulled wine, appetizers, and festive wine tastings for all.

The seasons celebrations continue with our Shenandoah Ruby Three-Bottle Special: purchase three bottles of Shenandoah Ruby and recieve 10% off. Includes gift box and and spice bag!

Holiday hours are 10:00 am to 5:00 pm seven days a week. Closed Christmas Day and News Years Day.

Shenandoah Uncorked!

2010-11-10T21:22:00.001-05:00

Shenandoah Vineyards is excited to be among the five local wineries featuring wine and other items at this year's Shenandoah Uncorked event. In addition to the wineries, other local businesses will have locally produced fresh farm produce, specialty foods and crafts on display and available for purchase. The event is held at Yellow Barn at Shenandoah Caverns, Saturday, November 13, from 10 AM to 5 PM. For more details; See:
http://www.shenandoahuncorked.com/index.html
Here are a couple pictures of the picturesque Yellow Barn at Shenandoah Caverns

Autumn Watch #5 - Moving It Indoors (Brrr...)

2010-11-08T06:52:00.000-05:00

It's getting less fun outdoors with temperatures dropping. It was decided to put this post under "Autumn Watch" because it uses things previously listed in this category. And, there is the added benefit it is made in the cozy indoors.

The picture shows wild mushroom ragu paired with Shenandoah Ruby wine and pineapple chunks. Wild Meadow Mushrooms were picked from the vineyard and dried. (See: Autumn Watch#1) Recipe also uses red wine and file. We used 3/4 bottle Shenandoah Ruby for the red wine, and fresh, young, green sassafras leaves, dried and finely ground, to make the file. Click here for the wild mushroom ragu recipe.

We could've gone all out in preparing an Appalachian meal by using acorn flour to make homemade pasta, and local goat cheese as a topping, and maybe stewed local apples or persimmons as a side dish, but there's a limit to the amount of work needed to keep it regional and local. The ragu was delicious and rich. Too rich for some people's taste, and there are those who reject wild mushrooms in any shape or manner. The wine of course paired perfectly, as it was used as an ingredient in the ragu.

Autumn Watch #4 - At Least The Grass Is Still Green

2010-11-06T18:17:00.001-04:00

This is where we are now. Many of the trees have lost their leaves, although the oaks are persistently and courageously clinging to their foliage. There is still abundant foliage on the oaks in the National Forest, but it is the more subdued shades of browns and tans, with some bright spots of orange-brown here and there.

At least the grass is still green in the vineyard. The verdant green of the ground cover is a vivid contrast to the tan and falling leaves of the vines. End-posts of the Riesling rows are a keyboard along the top of the hill, at the ready to play melodies sweet and ethereal. An Eastern Red Cedar is the focal point on the steep hill visible as you drive to and from the winery.

Autumn Watch #3 - We've Peaked

2010-11-02T22:40:00.001-04:00

The autumn colors have peaked, and are marching to the more subdued tans, browns and rusts. There was a brief peak with its flourish of all-too-bright yellows, reds and oranges. But, after a couple of frosts its time for colors to begin resting. We'll try to post a few more Autumn Watch posts as the foliage deepens to siennas and coffees.

Early morning view across the front of the vineyard. Vineyard fruit is not limited to grapes, sweet scenes are tasty to the eye as well.

Picture is of Fort Valley Stables. Scenes as this are just a short drive from the vineyard. The hills and mountains are in the National Forest. Established trails are blazed and can be hiked or ridden on horseback.

Autumn Watch #2 - Fence Row Along Block #2

2010-10-15T06:44:00.001-04:00

Autumn is splashing color across the trees on the fencerow bordering block #2.

Both pictures show the flame-orange foliage of trees growing along the fence near block #2, Riesling, growing in front of the winery. Pictures were taken on a misty-cloudy day, which gives colors the look of being in a museum. Vineyard workers have commented on the intense color of the trees, so we thought it worth a picture or two. All grapes have been harvested, but the vines still display a verdant vitality as we haven't had a freeze yet.

Autumn Watch #1 - Wild Mushrooms

2010-10-03T12:46:00.003-04:00

The grapes have been harvested. We finished the day before heavy rains set in. Actually, the last of the grapes were harvested during scattered showers prefacing heavy rain the following day. Tropical storms and remnants of tropical storms are not unusual in Virginia. These usually coincide with harvest.

If we're lucky, the fall rains will wait until after harvest. With rain comes mushrooms, and some particularly tasty ones can be found in the vineyard. We occasionally use a flail mower in the vineyard. This machine turns grass and vine cuttings into a fine mulch, and mixes it into the top layers of soil. Several types of mushrooms favor the mix of soil and decaying plant matter resulting from the use of a flail mower. The Meadow Mushroom, Agaricus campestris, and the Purple-Spored Puffball, Calvatia cyanthiformis, can be found in large numbers in the vineyard after a rain in the fall.

The following pictures show mushrooms picked from the vineyard and included in some quick, delicious breakfast dishes.

This is a basket of Meadow Mushrooms, Agaricus campestris, picked from the vineyard two days after finishing harvest and one day after about 3" of heavy rains. The bulk of these will be dried and used in a mushroom ragu recipe. The recipe calls for red wine, and the plan is to use Shenandoah Ruby as an ingredient in the ragu, and as an accompaniment to the meal.

These are puffballs, Calvatia cyanthiformis. They are found in the vineyard, sometimes growing alongside the Meadow Mushrooms pictured at the top. These should be picked while still young and very firm; potato-size is about right, although they will grow larger. Slice open and examine color. Use only if the inside is a uniform pure white.

Not patient enough to wait for the ragu, some fresh Meadow Mushrooms were sauteed in butter and used to top off a slice of toasted pumpernickel bread for breakfast. The dark color of the cooked mushrooms compliments the dark pumpernickel. Thin slivers of Swiss cheese were melted over the mushrooms to hold them in place.

This is a quick breakfast idea using a Puffball, Calvatia cyanthiformis. Puffballs should only be eaten if they are a uniform pure white inside as shown sliced by the knife. Thin slices are fried in butter over medium-low heat. (High heat will char them and ruin the flavor.) They become pliable and a beautiful light-brown. The slices were put on a toasted bagel, and Feta cheese flavored with tomato and basil was melted to hold the topping in place.

This breakfast again uses fried puffball, sliced very thin. The puffball on the right is shown to be a uniform pure white inside. This time the fried puffball slices were pressed into the top of a scrambled egg while still in the skillet and cooked into place. Egg and puffballs are served on top of a toasted bagel.

Harvest is Upon Us

2010-09-26T10:56:00.001-04:00

In short, 2010 harvest yield is down but quality is as good as we've seen it in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. There was some crop loss following spring frosts. Summer drought caused smaller berry weights than is normal. But, the fruit harvested was sweet, rich and ripe. The picture shows Cabernet Sauvignon ready to pick from the vineyard behind the winery. Yes, the berries are that blue. Breathtakingly blue.

31st Annual Harvest Festival

2010-08-29T06:52:00.004-04:00

Everyone is invited to join Shenandoah Vineyards for our 31st Annual Harvest Festival. We are now firmly into our 3rd decade among the longest established wineries in Virginia, and the oldest in Shenandoah Valley. The harvest festival is a long-held tradition where we open ourselves to participation with the people who've made us successful all these years.

The festival is a day-long event from 11 am to 6 pm. Admission is $10 for drinking-age adults, and $5 for people under 21 and non-drinkers/designated drivers. Children 4 and under are admitted free. Attractions include winery tours and wine tasting, food and refreshments, live music, crafters and artists, activities for young people including pony rides and llamas.

The winery and vineyard will be open inside and out for people to stroll about, ask questions and generally enjoy themselves. Call us for more information at 540-984-8699.

Mostly Local Breakfast

2010-08-29T06:50:00.003-04:00

As the economy continues to dictate frugality, this is what we had for breakfast this Saturday morning at work. Coffee of course is mandatory. (It was a tad early for wine, but one can imagine adding Raspberry Serenade to lively-up a morning cup of coffee or tea.)

On the crackers we put pears, sliced thick with a wide groove, and crumbled cheese drizzled with honey. The pears were picked from a tree on the edge of the vineyard. Both the cheese and honey are produced locally.

Harvest Nears

2010-08-29T06:49:00.000-04:00

Early morning photograph at dawn shows the vineyard a week or so before harvest begins. Grapes are picked as they get ripe, so harvest doesn't happen all at once. Some grape varieties ripen earlier than others, and elevation and sun exposure due to ground slope and orientation can affect ripening.

Peaches in a Dream

2010-08-10T06:50:00.001-04:00

Mid-summer is a time to dream. As days get filled with the sweet essence of ripe fruit, so this sweetness infuses our dreams. Pictured are peaches picked from a tree that volunteered along the fence-row bordering the gravel drive to the winery. Most of these will be baked into cobbler for dessert at our harvest festival supper. A lucky few will be sectioned to bathe and be savored in a Sauvignon Blanc, and appear on our blog to entice customers.

Levels of Enjoyment

2010-08-10T06:45:00.001-04:00

Enjoyment of life needn't be vertically constrained. Take for instance the top photo; this shows our upper deck. The view from here is largely unobstructed and breathtaking. From this high vantage point most of the vineyard in front of the winery is visible. Visible as well is Massanutten Mountain, forming the majestic centerpiece of Shenandoah Valley.

The bottom photo shows our middle deck from where visitors enter our sales and tasting area. Visitors can feel a sense of privacy offered by the largest grapevine one is likely to see. Actually, there are two vines. Their large trunks can be seen at the base of the staircase leading up to the deck. The vines trellis and twist their way up and around the supports and railings of the deck. Foliage spills across the openings casting cool shade onto the seating area.

Sweet Serenade Released

2010-08-10T06:30:00.002-04:00

Elegant simplicity is a noble goal. Music and taste are often synonymous. Tastes change. Austere times can be more richly fulfilling than times of wasteful excess. Case in point - the wine in the picture is our least expensive. Sweet Serenade is made from flavorful, aromatic hybrid grapes, finished sweet, with an aroma of tropical fruit cocktail. We bottled 443 cases on 7/24/10.

Music recorded on the mp3 player is downloaded free and legal from the Internet Archive. The powered speakers contain an internal amplifier, and need only house current and an input signal. Whether you groove to Tchaikovsky or techno, austerity can be crisp, fresh, tasty, and even sweet on occasion.

Country Cookout - Saturday, July 10, 2010

2010-06-23T15:22:00.008-04:00

The evening was splendid. After a beautiful sunset faded eastward, stars pinned a black velvet sky above our dinner guests. The air was warm and dry, providing the perfect place-setting for outdoor dining and dancing. The band played late into the evening and kept the event hopping. Some guests were seen dancing on the barrels placed around the dancefloor. Chilled wine was served after dinner, which no doubt encouraged guests to dance "like spirits of the night (all night)."

Admission: Adults $28.00 Children $13.00

Event sign in and wine tasting begin at 6:30 PM
Dinner 7:00
Music 8:00-11:00

Menu:
Pork barbeque with seeded buns, hot slaw and pork sauce
Grilled chicken kabobs
Southwest potato salad
Tomato, avocado, black bean & corn salad
Summer squash casserole
Corn muffins
Sliced watermelon
Cherry cobbler with vanilla ice cream.
Ice tea

Additional wine is available for purchase by the glass and bottle.

Music by those foot stompin' virtuosos, NoDRAMA.

Fiesta Released

2010-06-03T07:30:00.001-04:00

Fiesta was bottled and released on May 27, 2010. 428 cases were bottled. Fiesta is our sweet blush wine expressing the familiar and refreshing aroma and taste of Concord grape. New release was just in time for the Memorial Day holiday weekend, and our customers were eager to find it on our tasting counter.

Wine is best experienced using all the senses. Of course, taste and smell are primary. However, sight is often the 1st introduction to a wine, and should also be enjoyed and not overlooked. The photograph shows the beautiful vibrant color and translucency of Fiesta in the glow of dawn's early light (a reference to Memorial Day). Next to the Fiesta are Blenko water carafes, available in our gift shop.

Spring Watch May 30, 2010 - Spring Edges Into Summer

2010-05-30T17:35:00.004-04:00

This is likely the last of the Spring Watch series for 2010. In the nearby National Forest one is able to escape the mechanical noise and technological intrusions that hound and haunt modern life. Nature is a place of quiet sounds (rustling leaves and trickling water), fresh scents of wildflower and pine and dappled sunlight spilling and splashing through thick green canopies.

As promised, the photos show Mountain Laurel, found growing along stream beds, and the ravines where water courses down the mountainsides. The ones pictured are the whiter shades, will add a shot of the pinker if I get the chance...

Spring Watch May 25, 2010 - Rosey Welcome

2010-05-25T23:36:00.001-04:00

The rose bushes near the vineyard entrance are in bloom. They are a showy welcome for our visitors. Occasionally, in late afternoon, among the long silhouettes cast by trees combing long shafts of golden sunlight, the setting sun smiles on a vibrant rose. Color bursts into flame for only a minute or two before retreating into the muted shadows.

The Mountain Laurel are blooming in the forest; clouds of the palest pink blush in the deep woods. I hope they will endure for a photograph. Maybe this weekend?

Stoney Creek Planning

2010-05-22T06:34:00.014-04:00

These photos, diagrams and comments are being posted to aid planning at our Stoney Creek Vineyard. Photographs can be enlarged by clicking on them. Removal of a section of vineyard with less-than-ideal soil and climate conditions is being considered.

In discussing end-post configuration, consideration is being given to setting end-posts at a 60 degree angle from the slope of the terrain. If the terrain has varying degrees of slope, this will result in posts having variable lean with respect to one another. The top diagram shows an exaggerated example of the phenomenon. A fixed degree of angle from vertical will correct the problem, e.g. 30 degrees from vertical. The bottom diagram shows end-posts set 0 degrees from vertical, the more traditional method of setting posts.

Line-posts to be removed and replaced by end-posts are marked with ribbon. This is looking across the rows. Area to be removed is about 3 acres, running from the marked line-posts, across the vineyard to roughly the edge of shadow, then left at row #32. Terrain topography is indicated by the relative difference in post elevation seen in the photograph. The shadowed area in the foreground is a frost pocket with relatively low-lying topography.

End-post and anchor-post have been pulled to show depth of burial (~3 ft.). Anchor-post is half a full post cut diagonally to allow additional height. One 8' post yields two anchor posts. Because of the diagonal cut, each anchor-post is approximately 4 1/2' in length.

Photo showing end-post configuration consisting of end-post, anchor-post and wiring. Plans are to move these posts uphill, shortening the rows and removing section of vineyard subject to frost damage.

This photo is taken from the top of row #32, last row to be shortened, looking down toward vineyard area to be removed. Slope in the foreground is very visible. Posts make visible topography of the terrain. Broad, low, flat area lying at the foot of the hill is a frost pocket, subject to spring frosts occurring after bud break. The low area also has poor drainage, with developing sinkholes and damp soil. Other areas of the vineyard have good slope, good air drainage and better soil conditions.

Rebel Red Unleashed

2010-05-13T13:12:00.001-04:00

Rebel Red was bottled and released May 8, 2010, just in time for Mother's Day. Number of cases bottled was 460. Customers were anxious to taste the new bottling, and did not hesitate to give grief to the winemaker during the couple weeks they were forced to go without the wine.

The photo shows a thank-you note and photograph from a much appreciative group. The out-of-town group visits the winery annually while staying the weekend in a cabin in Fort Valley. We are happy to be a part of their gathering while they make a ruckus on the top deck. The winemaker is wiping sweat off his brow, relieved to provide the necessary ingredient for the group's happiness.

Mother's Day Wine Pairing, Sunday, May 9

2010-05-05T06:56:00.004-04:00

Shenandoah Vineyards will host a wine and food pairing on Mother's Day, Sunday, May 9, 2010. We invite Mom and the rest of the family for a visit. Our wine will be paired with gourmet snack items. Come to the winery to mix and socialize over delicious wine and food. Spring is in full swing, so get out and soak up some sunshine (we have outdoor decks and picnic tables). Event lasts all day during our open hours (10 AM - 6 PM). A wonderful time is only $8/person. For more information call 540 984 8699.

1958 Vintage Classic

2010-04-27T06:55:00.002-04:00

We were visited by a classic of the rolling type on Monday. The day was overcast and damp, with occasional thundershowers on and off throughout the day. Every so often I'd poke my head out of the cellar to see what the weather brought. On looking out something caught the corner of my eye; the glint of something classic and refined... It was a 1958 DeSoto. Owners of classic vehicles sometimes visit the winery, appearing out of the fog as if emerging from a time-machine, and we glimpse the art and engineering of a bygone era.

Spring Watch April 25, 2010 - Wild Azaleas

2010-04-25T10:21:00.002-04:00

As promised in the preceding post, photographs of the wild azaleas can now be shown. These azaleas (presumably Rhododendron periclymenoides) are found in the George Washington National Forest, most frequently along streams and wet areas. They are just beginning to bloom. The colors range from a very pale pink-almost white, to the deep rose pink shades in the photographs. These were found along Passage Creek, near the Elizabeth Furnace area in Fort Valley. Flower buds are forming on the Mountain Laurel, but haven't yet bloomed.

Spring Watch April 13, 2010 - More Redbuds

2010-04-13T22:55:00.004-04:00

The weather turned cool and drizzly today. Cloudy, damp weather accentuates the colors of the forest, so the redbuds demanded more pictures be taken. Again, all of these were taken in Fort Valley, once called a "gem within a gem" because of its location within Shenandoah Valley.

"The Fort" as it's known is easily accessible by following Rt. 675 east from very near the vineyard. The Fort is a mountain valley surrounded by Massanutten Mountain and the George Washington National Forest. Mountain Laurel and native Azaleas are abundant in the forest too, but bloom later. We'll take pictures when they begin to show. To repeat the previous post, the Fort is a living, breathing Impressionist painting.

Spring Watch April 12, 2010

2010-04-12T22:35:00.004-04:00

The Redbuds (Cercis canadensis) are blooming in a most magnificent display of color. Most often seen growing wild along roadsides and fence rows, in spring they blossom with splashes and sprays of magenta that would make Monet proud. An Impressionist masterpiece awaits around every turn down a country road. The two photos above are from the nearby Fort Valley in late afternoon as the sun drops behind a mountain ridge.

Spring Watch April 8, 2010

2010-04-08T22:30:00.001-04:00

With several very warm days approaching 90° the pace of spring is dizzying. Trees blossom and shower windborne flower petals in the space of a couple days. Leaves appear almost overnight. The mountain is covered by a thickening blanket of green.

Photo shows a crabapple tree on the front lawn. Behind it are large white oaks with leaves not yet full, and behind them the green pastures of the sheep farm next door. Most of the vines are budding out now; perilously early as they are susceptible to frost injury.

Cabernet Franc 2007 Released

2010-03-27T08:35:00.004-04:00

The 2007 Cabernet Franc is now available. 281 cases were bottled on January 21, 2010. It is showing good color with an aroma of blueberries and a hint of American oak. The photo shows it paired with Goot Essa Mountain Valley Sharp Cheddar Cheese. The idea to pair the Cab Franc with this cheese must have been divinely inspired as we have rarely tasted two things that go together so well.

Spring Watch March 24, 2010

2010-03-26T07:28:00.005-04:00

We've begun a watch for spring to alert people to the progress of the season as it awakens across the vineyard and region. The most visible sign so far is the grass becoming noticeably green, with flocks of robins very frequent. Sap is flowing from cuts where vines have been pruned. The National Forest is showing extra color, the result of bud swell in several different tree species. Will be sure to photograph the Redbud (Cercis canadensis) when they show good color in the forest, but it still a little early.

Spring Watch March 15, 2010

2010-03-15T10:56:00.004-04:00

Although a few more days must be endured 'til the arrival of spring, there are some early signs. Pictured are the spring lambs on the farm next door to the winery. Many people stop at the entrance to the vineyard to take pictures of them. (We wish more of these people would continue onto the winery, but I guess we can't match baby lambs for cuteness.)

Wine and Cheese Weekends in March

2010-03-05T09:26:00.006-05:00

Rumor has it winter relinquishes its cold grip and spring renews hope for warmth in the world. Supposedly, this happens sometime in March. The prospect of warmer weather intrigues us, and we encourage everyone to make spring a reality. For our part we offer wine and cheese pairings every weekend in the month of March. Wine & Cheese Weekends is our springtime ritual to get our customers to stretch their legs and get the blood moving again.

For $8 each customer gets a souvenir glass to taste the full variety of Shenandoah Vineyards wine, and pair these with gourmet dips and cheeses. Our sales staff will help guide you to make pairings that are memorable and delicious. Please join us in developing warm weather habits for the coming season. Of course in addition to our Wine & Cheese Weekends feature we continue to provide free tours and tasting as always.

Let It Snow

2009-12-24T07:35:00.017-05:00

Snow is just what the vineyard needs this time of year. A slowly melting cover of heavy snow seeps deep into the soil, replenishing moisture reserves for the next growing season.

Customers need not fret. The vineyard crew is usually on top of things, and will quickly plow snow from the driveway and parking lot allowing customers access to the winery when winter shows its teeth. So, if you're in the mood for some hot mulled wine and a snowball fight, give us a visit; we have the wine and we have the snow to make the best of the winter season. And, have a Merry Christmas!

Holiday Gifts at Shenandoah Vineyards

2009-12-12T07:58:00.007-05:00

In addition to wines that pair wonderfully with your holiday meals, we offer wine-related gift items. We are open every day through the holiday season, except Christmas and New Year's. Here are some pictures showing a few of the things available in our gift shop...

Easy to hold and handsome, our gift boxes carry wine bottles and glasses. No assembly required but you will need to pull the cork.

Behind the old grape press is a display of locally produced Virginia honey. Stuck to the refrigerator filled with gourmet snacks are decorative magnets (we have lots of designs and sizes including ones specific to our winery). Illuminated in the background is our Christmas tree.

As you can see from the pictures, our gift shop is rather fully stocked. It would be hard not to find something interesting or practical, or delicious and refreshing. During the holiday season we have additional treats and enticements for the holiday shopper. Mulled wine is a cold weather favorite. Let us ladle out a sample for you, warm and spicy.

Floyd Polk Rememberance - 1923-2009

2009-12-11T13:45:00.002-05:00

Floyd Polk passed away on Thursday, December 3, 2009. From the employees at Shenandoah Vineyards who knew and worked with Floyd, we miss him. As much as the vines and trellis posts stately standing in the vineyard, Floyd could be seen working between them, among them. He was part of the landscape. After his retirement, and especially now after his passing, there is an unfilled space in the vineyard; vines tilt reverently toward where he once stood. Floyd was the embodiment of a proud, tireless work ethic. We will not forget his figure in the landscape, and the vineyard he once tended still bears sweet fruit.

Food for the Holidays

2009-11-21T09:46:00.008-05:00

Almost all holiday traditions feature food. Most traditional holiday fare involves lengthy and elaborate planning and preparation. Shenandoah Vineyards would like to suggest a more feasible tradition; a fancy snack combining gourmet foods and wine. This would be a small meal, on the order of an appetizer so rich in flavor and ceremony it becomes the central focus.

The French have amuse-gueule, the Spanish have tapas. At Shenandoah Vineyards a couple or small group might choose a soft cheese or smoked salmon to spread on a gourmet cracker, and pair it with a bottle of wine. The preparation is simple and quick, the taste and experience are intense and enriching. The photograph shows some of the ingredients we offer. We invite you to sample our wine, food and ideas over the holiday season.

Shenandoah Uncorked Pleases Crowd

2009-11-14T12:01:00.010-05:00

The weather cleared, the crowds gathered, the smell of coffee and doughnuts was in the air and the first Shenandoah Uncorked festival began. Sam and Stacia are pictured at the Shenandoah Vineyards booth at The Yellow Barn just prior to the festival opening.

The large cask behind them was salvaged from the vineyard and reconditioned into a display for wines made in Shenandoah County. The purple sign was something we dug out of the tractor shed. Attics, cellars, sheds and small towns hold within their confines the most wondrous of treasures. Judging by the large turnout and good sales, the crowd was pleased by the festival. We all hope for continued success into the future

Shenandoah Uncorked - Nov. 14, 2009

2009-11-07T12:00:00.002-05:00

Shenandoah Vineyards is proud to be among the five Shenandoah County wineries and other local businesses at Shenandoah Uncorked. A family oriented event, Shenandoah Uncorked will showcase local businesses whose job it is to make and keep Shenandoah County a great place to live and work. The event will take place at The Yellow Barn, pictured above, at Shenandoah Caverns on Saturday, November 14, 2009.

Among the important businesses located in Shenandoah County, local wineries are recognized as the attractive and public face of agriculture. Agritourism allows the public to see where the food they buy at the grocers comes from, and have fun doing it. In regions where grape growing is viable, places like Europe, California and right here in Virginia, wineries have been the centerpiece in the development and promotion of agritourism.

Shenandoah County is home to some of the oldest, and newest operating wineries in the state. Join us for a day of live music, food, refreshments and activities for the whole family. Regular admission is $5. $10 includes wine glass and tasting. Ages 12 and under get in free. For directions and additional information see:
Shenandoah Uncorked

For a list of activities and attractions see:
Yellow Barn website

2009 Autumn Foliage Watch - Final Chapter

2009-11-05T09:47:00.002-05:00

This will likely be the last post about the 2009 Autumn Foliage. The region has experienced several frosty mornings. Foliage has progressed toward warm browns, still beautiful but lacking the vibrancy of firery yellows, reds and oranges. Above photo shows a corner of the front vineyard where vines still maintain foliage showing nice color. The tall trees to the left are Catalpa, bravely clinging to some leaves. Nature is a warm ember cooling toward winter. Photos will continue to be posted, probably showing indoor activities, or winterscapes if they merit attention.

More Hot Air

2009-10-29T20:32:00.011-04:00

TC, winery sales manager and astute observer and organizer of winery activities, alerted the vineyard crew to the presence of a hot air balloon over the vineyard. It was a couple hundred feet up, and looked to be slowly descending. As it drew closer a vineyard worker ran to get his camera. The balloon continued to descend; a lapis lazuli pendant dropping in luxurious slow motion from a sky of white silk. Rows of vines like fingers, outstretched to catch a precious stone. Aloft passengers waved to earthbound admirers.

The balloon looked like it would touch down in the field adjacent to the vineyard to the south, behind some trees. The pilot asked if he could set down in one of the open fields on the vineyard property? Observers on the ground answered he was welcome to land anywhere he wanted.

The retrieval crew drove onto vineyard property in a van hauling a trailer. The balloon hovered over the trees, slowly approaching earth behind the winery; the pilot telling his ground crew exactly where he was going to land. He touched down on the gravel drive, and the ground crew guided the balloon basket to a spot where passengers could safely exit the basket, and the balloon to deflate onto the open grass. Here are some pictures:

Turns out the passengers had visited the winery the day before and told TC they were going on a balloon ride. They had no idea they would land at the same winery again the next day. TC wondered about the practicality of having a store of sparkling wine for future balloon landings.We hope balloonists can maneuver future landings in the merry old land of Shenandoah Vineyards.

Autumn Foliage Watch #5

2009-10-29T07:23:00.001-04:00

Foliage is right about peak in the valley. The higher elevations in the National Forest are definitely post-peak having weathered several frosty mornings. The photograph shows the winery residence from the vineyard behind the winery. The end post of the vineyard block containing Cabernet Sauvignon gently leans in front of the potting shed. Maples are a rich golden-yellow. Black Walnuts are in siloutte, devoid of leaves. Vineyard in front of winery is partially visible beyond and behind the residence. Shrouded in mist, Massanutten Mountain attempts to punch through the low cloud ceiling.

Autumn Foliage Watch #4

2009-10-24T07:45:00.009-04:00

This is a view of the GW National Forest and Fort Valley from the hiking trail closest to the winery, about a 10 minute drive to the trailhead, then a 20 minute hike to this spot. This is the section of the Massanutten Trail North that rounds the nose of Short Mountain visible from the winery. Cliffs are located just off the trail as you approach the ridge. As it was early evening, there wasn't much light, then it started raining... Still, you get a sense of the full palette of colors nature splashes in her wild autumn frenzy.

Specifically, you are looking east through Edinburg Gap, this is the mountain gap very prominent in the view from the front of the winery. Beyond the gap is Fort Valley, and Kennedy Peak juts skyward on the far side of the valley.

As this weekend is peak for autumn foliage color, pictures will be posted to capture a sense of the display. There is a natural beauty here beyond words and imagination, and fully worthy of respect and preservation. Here is a link to a panoramic image from near the same spot as the above picture. It was a clear afternoon, and shows the rugged Blue Ridge Mountains on the distant horizon; See:
Edinburg Gap panorama

Fall Celebration Progressive Dinner - Oct.24

2009-10-24T07:00:00.001-04:00

Make plans to attend this year's Fall Celebration Progressive Dinner, Saturday October 24, 2009. Activities for this event begin with appetizers and wine at North Mountain Vineyard at 6:30 pm. The event progresses to dinner and wine at Shenandoah Vineyards at 8:00 pm. The progression finishes with dessert paired with wines from both North Mountain and Shenandoah Vineyards at Hockman Manor House B&B at 9:30 pm. Call 540-984-8699 for reservations and information. Autumn colors will be near peak for this event, so come early and make a day of it.

Menu

Appetizers - North Mountain Vineyard - 6:30 pm
Cheese Board w/Fresh Fruit
Rustic Rosemary Tart
Fig & Olive Tapenade on French Bread
Country Ham & Smoked Gouda in Phyllo Tartlets
Appetizers paired w/North Mountain Vineyard wines

Dinner - Shenandoah Vineyards - 8:00 pm
Salad - Frisee and Grape Salad w/Shallots, Blue Cheese & Herb Vinaigrette

Soup - French Onion Soup

Entree - Grilled Herb Rubbed Tuscan Pork Loin
served w/Cranberry and Carmelized Onion Sauce
Orzo w/ Lemon, Garlic, Parmigianino & Herbs
Green Beans w/Crispy Pancetta, Mushrooms & Shallots
Assorted Rolls & Butter
Dinner paired w/Shenandoah Vineyards wines

Dessert - Hockman Manor House - 9:15 pm
Custard Tart w/Wine Poached Grapes
Coffee-Toffee Pecan Pie
Coffee w/Dessert
Dessert paired w/North Mountain and Shenandoah Vineyards wines

Wild persimmons and sassafras leaves were gathered to give the viewer a feeling that we are experiencing autumn in all her glory. Nature paints herself in oranges, reds and browns of varying and infinite shades.

Autumn Foliage Watch #3 - Oct. 21

2009-10-21T23:13:00.001-04:00

The shade Maples in front of the winery owner's home are turning a yellow-orange. The Black Walnuts have lost most of their foliage and shed walnuts by the hundreds. All the grapes have been picked and crushed. We've had two mornings with frost helping to really bring color to the foliage. We are close to peak. Colors are approaching spectacular.

Last of the Summer Grapes

2009-10-15T06:06:00.004-04:00

The vineyard crew gathers around Cabernet Sauvignon; each grape being the deep purple point of an exclamation marking the end of a good harvest. The proud vineyard workforce admiring their effort is from the left, Carl, Sonia, Justin and Ariel.

The end of the 2009 harvest marks both an end and a beginning. The fruit having been gathered, we can now concentrate on the work required of next year's and future harvests. All needs, wants, deficiencies and strengths of the vineyard can now receive more focus. There is no rest for the vineyard crew who must prune and do trellis maintenance throughout the winter season.

Autumn Foliage Watch #2

2009-10-11T00:22:00.004-04:00

Autumn colors are developing nicely. While things are still predominately green around the vineyard, the nearby forest is beginning to show good color. The above photos are taken in the George Washington National Forest, only a very short drive from the winery. Massanutten Mountain, which appears on our label, is almost entirely in the National Forest. Indeed, when visiting our winery you are just a very short distance from the national heritage that is the National Forest.

Autumn Foliage Watch #1

2009-10-04T09:09:00.009-04:00

Autumn is the busiest season for the winery. Many of our customers are in the region to enjoy the colorful display of fall foliage. To facilitate your leaf-peeping desires, we will provide a window showing the progress of autumn color. As of Oct. 4, green still predominates. Virginia Creeper is turning red, and Black Walnut is beginning to turn yellow as seen in the picture. Golden-yellow early morning sun splashes gold across the foliage just beginning to change color. River mist blankets the base of Massanutten Mountain. Photograph is the vineyard from the sale's room deck. As with all the pictures in this blog, the photo enlarges when you click on it.

The nearby GW National Forest is a prime area to see glorious autumn colors. The Lee Ranger District has a webpage devoted to fall colors; See:
Why Leaves Change Color.

Harvest is in full swing. We have finished picking the white grapes and will begin picking reds this week. We'll finish the harvest after the Cabernet Sauvignon is picked within 2 weeks. Will try to snap a picture or two if I get the chance...

Edinburg Ole' Time Festival

2009-09-27T08:49:00.011-04:00

Shenandoah Vineyards participated in the Edinburg Ole' Time Festival. Our location in town was changed at the very last minute, and we were asked to relocate to the Edinburg Mill. Other vendors were located in the front parking lot, but we were told to locate in the patio area behind the flood wall in the front of the building. The new site was found to be almost ideal; a very beautiful if somewhat secluded space.

The sales tent and supplies were delivered and set up Saturday morning. Traffic was backed up in town, and vendors were open for business. Although our space was among the most beautiful in Edinburg, we realized visibility was a problem. The patio where we were located was behind a tall flood wall and behind a long row of vendors.

Unable to erect a very tall banner, few people could find us. It should be emphasized we loved the space. In the future we will have to plan appropriate signage to make our presence known. These pictures of the mill and patio were taken the week following the festival, so the activities of the previous weekend depend on imagination.

This is a view of the Edinburg Mill from the corner of the front parking lot. Stoney Creek is directly behind the camera. As with all waterways, Stoney Creek rarely but occasionally overflows its banks so a substantial and impressive flood wall was incorporated into the latest renovation of the Mill. The flood wall is the tan-orange structure capped with a row of glass or Plexiglas panels. A flood gate is visible at the left end of the wall. We were located in the patio area directly behind the corner of the wall visible in the photograph.

This is the patio area where we were located. The inside-corner of the wall corresponds to the outside-corner seen in the first photo. During the festival, large picnic tables w/shade umbrellas were placed around the patio. Civil War lectures were given in this space during the festival; the wall also dampens outside noise making for a quiet area for lectures, discussions and meetings in general.

The Edinburg Mill offered a limited opening of its museum during the festival. There is still extensive construction going on within the building. The grand opening is scheduled for spring, 2010. The patio space is open for public viewing. Donors to Mill reconstruction have their names etched into patio stone. And, of course you can feed the geese in Stoney Creek.

Hot Air Balloons

2009-09-26T12:27:00.000-04:00

Hot air balloons are frequently seen floating near the vineyard. You most often see them in the morning or evening when winds are calm. This one was seen in the morning and descended to tree-top level in the field next to the vineyard. It was close enough to make for a good picture in the early morning light.

Harvest Festival Report

2009-09-13T17:37:00.008-04:00

Happy faces of the winery staff, vendors, musicians and most importantly the guests, confirm the Harvest Festival was a success. First, a few pictures;

These pictures show some of the crowd gathered to watch and judge the grape stomping contest. I apologize for so few pictures, but I was kinda busy having fun giving tours and seminars inside the winery. We cleared a big open space in the winery where 50 people could sit at tables and get acquainted with the winery operation, and get helpful hints for appreciating wine. There was also plenty of room to stand when the crowd grew large. Ken Stone, a guitarist from Crystal City, VA, also entertained in the cellar space.

Immediately outside the cellar, the band, Nodrama, rocked the crowd. They're due credit for a tireless performance that energized the crowd throughout the day. They also provided the short musical interludes for the grape stomping contest. Many thanks.

Weather was cool, partly cloudy and breezy, typical for late summer. Kids didn't escape the fun. There was a children's tent with Italian ice, popcorn and facepainting, as well as llamas for petting and horses and ponies for riding.

Judging from the many thanks given to the winery staff by guests we think the festival went well. Afterward, the winery owner, Emma Randel, and her family provided the traditional after-festival supper for workers and volunteers. We're already discussing ways of making the next Harvest Festival every bit as fun and successful as the last.

30th Annual Harvest Festival

2009-09-11T23:13:00.000-04:00

On the eve of our Harvest Festival, planning and preparations are largely complete and everything is ready to go. Everybody has worked hard and hopes are high the event will be successful. Most importantly, the weather looks cooperative, if not outstanding. Vendors and guests have already begun to arrive.

In addition to our regular band, Nodrama, we will have another musician performing in the Cellar Lounge. Ken Stone will provide solo guitar music when Nodrama is not performing. This arrangement should provide live music throughout most of the festival. The Lounge is a performance space we've opened in the cellar. It's still a little rough, but with practice it should become perfect. This space will also be used for seminars and as a gathering spot for conducting tours of the winery. (We are calling this "The Cellar Door" in honor of the famous but defunct D.C. nightclub.)

Of course we will have wine, cold and by the bottle and glass. Food and refreshments will be served. We will have horses and llamas, door prizes, popcorn and snow cones. The t-shirts feature the 30th Annual Harvest Festival logo. Vendors will have all kinds of crafty sorts of things. So, come on out and make it happen. The recovery has started, see and feel it in Shenandoah Valley.

Breakfast of Champions

2009-08-04T15:10:00.001-04:00

This is a popular treat when the peaches get ripe. Cut up a peach into a wine glass and fill the fruit-filled glass with Sweet Serenade wine. Let the peaches steep in the 'fridge overnight. In the morning you have what the women in our salesroom call, "breakfast of champions." Of course soft, ripe, sweet peaches make the best champion batches. The peach in the picture is from a volunteer peach tree in the front vineyard.

New Sign

2009-08-04T11:17:00.000-04:00

I decided to post a picture of the new sign. This sign replaces the old one that was looking weathered after many years, finally succumbing to the weather when a windstorm toppled it. The new sign is anchored on concrete footers on substantial posts. It has a clean art-deco look. You can't miss it when driving to the vineyard.

Photographing the Vineyard

2009-07-18T22:13:00.012-04:00

We had a good thunderstorm Friday, July 17. I had things to do at the winery Saturday morning, and had my camera as I always do. Opportunity presents itself to those who are ready for it, and the morning was as picturesque as any I've seen. Cameras can capture many things. The beauty of a rural landscape is a frequent occurrence at the vineyard, and can be a rich reward for the photographer willing to greet the sunrise.

I drove out to this point in the vineyard. It is block#3 (red and white hybrids), adjacent to the entrance to the vineyard. I hopped into the back of my pickup and set the camera and small tripod on the roof of the truck. The shot was taken almost directly into the sun, and shows block#4 (Seyval) behind the lens flair.

This photo is taken from the exact same spot as the 1st photo, but I swung the camera around to photograph the winery in bright, low-angle morning light. Vineyard block#3 is in the foreground, block#2 (Chardonnay and Riesling) is below the Black Walnut tree in the center of the photo. Block#1 (mostly Cabernet Sauvignon) can be seen behind the winery building.

The photo above was taken from the top deck of the winery. In the foreground is block#2, in the distance is block#3 where I took the two pictures preceding this one. If you imagine a pickup truck in the middle of the top vineyard block, beneath the two towers, that's where I was to take the 1st two photos. Morning is a beautiful time to photograph landscapes. Customers should come out early and check it out.

Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 Released

2009-07-13T09:30:00.007-04:00

Some wines are big enough to support an architectural structure. As the photo portrays (jokingly) our 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon has the structure required to support a big wooden deck. More seriously, we taste carob, leather, cherries and berries at this early stage. American oak provides a recognizable but not overpowering wood component. Wine was bottled on 7/10/09, and consisted of 338 cases. The wine is photographed on our lower deck, on the entrance level to our tasting room.

Fiesta Released

2009-07-13T09:00:00.005-04:00

Fiesta is our sweet blush table wine. Concord grapes give it a very familiar and popular aroma and taste. Concord grapes are familiar to most people as the grape making the jelly paired most frequently with peanut butter in a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Chilled, Fiesta makes a refreshing beverage that fits perfectly with a hot summer day. Wine was bottled on 5/21/09, and consisted of 420 cases. Photo shows a bottle of Fiesta on the railing of the upper deck, overlooking the front vineyard, Massanutten Mountain, and Edinburg Gap.

Country Cookout July 11, 2009

2009-07-12T09:56:00.003-04:00

Here's a review of the 2009 Country Cookout event. The cookout was successful enough that a decision has already been made to continue it into the future. Although we did get a good storm early in the day, the evening weather was delightful with a comfortable warm breeze, and the grounds were dry.

Food was plentiful and fitting for a picnic in the country; Pork barbecue on bun, chicken kabobs, and various summertime side-dishes. Ice tea was a welcome refreshment. Dessert was ice cream on cherry cobbler. Sweet, cool watermelon wedges were a reminder that this was a summer meal.

The band kept the evening lively, and had guests mixing it up on the dance floor. Show consisted of popular '70s covers. The pace and excitement of the music continued to build as the evening progressed, reaching a fairly loud crescendo by the end of the event at 11 PM. We had a friendly visit from a county deputy sheriff. The band was packing their equipment when he arrived. He said there was a complaint about the noise. Seeing the show had ended, the deputy said he didn't see a problem, and told us to have a good evening.

Photo shows band and guests near the dance floor during early evening. Tables near the band, and on the two decks were the most popular. Although the winemaker was present for questioning in the wine cellar, only a few guests took advantage of the opportunity. Most guests remained outdoors enjoying the beautiful evening.

We welcome recommendations for making these events more popular and successful in the future. Please don't be shy. Let's get some back-and-forth happening on this blog.

Bridal shoot

2009-06-23T17:11:00.006-04:00

The winery was the backdrop for a bridal photo shoot today. TC asked the bride and photographer if they minded me taking a picture. I felt a bit intrusive, but they were happy to allow me to snap a photograph. You see the bride and her mother sitting on the deck outside the tasting room

Warmth Returns

2009-05-15T15:19:00.003-04:00

Spring is cradling the vineyard with warmth and sun. It is again comfortable to sit outside on the deck and share a sip with a friend or friends. This post marks no event except thankfulness that my hands no longer ache from the cold of winter. No picture accompanies this post since my home computer's hard drive crashed, and that's where all my pictures and photo editing software are kept, at home, on a dead computer. So, I guess I'll try to capture spring in my camera, where it will remain in stasis, 'til I get my computer fixed...

Tomorrow, Saturday, May 16, we'll be at the Virginia Wine and Crafts Festival in Front Royal, VA. The end of the month, Saturday and Sunday, May 30 and 31, we'll be at Vintage Virginia at Bull Run Park, in Centreville, VA.,

All That Spring Brings

2009-04-12T13:11:00.004-04:00

Early spring. Nighttime temperatures still drop down to freezing. But, warmth comes earlier each successive morning. As alway, work in the vineyard is falling behind schedule. If the nights remain cool we may be able to catch up. The sun actually feels warm, and is no longer a cold white light low in the winter sky. Its color is warmer now. Colors in general are brighter, more vivid.

The picture with this post was taken Easter morning, before business opening (no cars). The tree is crabapple, in early bloom. The front of the winery is soaking up the morning sun. Not a cloud in the sky.

Easter Weekend

2009-04-04T08:08:00.006-04:00

We offer a wine and cheese pairing over the Easter weekend, Saturday and Sunday, April 11 and 12, 2009. Delicious combinations of food and wine will be suggested. Tastings and a souvenir glass are available for $8 per individual. Here's hoping for a beautiful spring weekend, so you can sit on the deck and watch the valley and mountains rejoice in their verdant awakening. (These are not just words. You have to see it to believe it.)

Vintage Bottlings

2009-04-03T22:41:00.007-04:00

A customer dropped by the winery today with some interesting memorabilia. He brought in several old bottles of our wine, all aged several decades. One bottle, a 1977 Shenandoah Blanc, was among some of the first wine bottled after the winery opened. Can't say the wine was drinkable (I didn't try it), but the bottles displayed an admirable age and grace. See the picture above. Click on the picture to see an enlargement.

Founder's Reserve Chardonnay Released

2009-03-18T23:12:00.007-04:00

We have released our 2006 Founder's Reserve Chardonnay on 3/13/09. Bottling consisted of 182 cases. This wine was fermented and aged in French oak barrels. We thought this wine so deserving, we posted two pictures of it. The top picture shows a bottle and glass on the winery deck, overlooking the vineyard shrouded in late-winter morning fog. The bottom photo shows the bottle on our tasting counter.

Sauvignon Blanc Released

2009-03-08T18:47:00.005-04:00

Our Sauvignon Blanc Lot07 was released on 3/6/09. This wine was barrel fermented in American oak. We noted butterscotch and kiwi in the newly bottled wine. Total cases 128.

Wine Pairing Weekends in March

2009-02-21T14:04:00.004-05:00

Be sure to visit Shenandoah Vineyards in March. Beginning Saturday, March 7, 2009, we will offer wine and food pairings every weekend for the rest of the month. The event will be Saturdays and Sundays, March 7 and 8, 14 and 15, 21 and 22, 28 and 29. A fee of $8 per individual includes wine tastings and food pairings, and a souvenir glass. Call 540-984-8699 for more information.

Raspberry Serenade Released

2009-02-21T13:39:00.006-05:00

Raspberry Serenade is available again. Release date was Feb. 13, 2009, just in time for Valentine's Day. Cases bottled, 477. This sweet dessert wine has a very up-front raspberry aroma and flavor.

Valentine Weekend

2009-02-05T11:39:00.007-05:00

Bring your valentine to our winery for wine and snack pairings over the Valentine's weekend. We will be celebrating Valentine's Day all weekend. Call or email for more information.

2007 Riesling Released

2008-12-27T10:42:00.003-05:00

The 2007 Riesling was bottled and released on 12/19/08. Bottling consists of 431 cases.

Spice Away The Cold

2008-12-15T07:05:00.003-05:00

Spice up the winter season with mulled wine. Red wine is mulled with spices and brown sugar, and sipped warm from a mug. Make it in a crockpot for holiday-season parties. Visitors are offered a taste of this warm traditional treat to take the chill off. Come by and warm your spirits.

Holiday Shopping at Shenandoah Vineyards

2008-12-06T15:04:00.005-05:00

This is our tasting room and some of the gift assortment for the holiday season. Most of our selection is wine related. Make your shopping an occasion by sipping a glass of wine while you make your gift-giving decisions.

2007 Chambourcin Released

2008-11-23T22:35:00.001-05:00

The Founder's Reserve Chambourcin vintage 2007 has been released. Release consisted of 248 cases bottled on 11/14/08.

1st Post Celebrates Holiday Season

2008-11-21T15:01:00.005-05:00

Welcome to the Shenandoah Vineyard's Blog. We will strive to keep you up to date on activities and events at the winery, and in the local region. The winery will be part of the "Deck the Halls" weekends event, the last two weekends of November and the 1st weekend of December, 2008.

Customers will receive special gifts from each of the participating businesses. Shenandoah Vineyards will allow customers to pick from a variety of Christmas ornaments (some pictured above) designed and hand-painted by the owner's granddaughter, Tori Veach.

We also have our "Christmas Open House," held the 1st weekend in December, 2008.