Shenandoah Vineyards (VA) Review
Address: 3659 S. Ox Rd. Edinburg,Virginia 22824.
Phone Number: 540-984-8699
Tasting Hours: Summer: 10:00-6:00, Winter 10:00-5:00
Region: Shenandoah Valley AVA, Virginia
Reviewer: Richard Rynders
Review Date: 8/16/2015
Reviewer: Richard Rynders
Rating: 4
The Review
Conveniently located not far off of Interstate Highway 81 in the Shenandoah Valley is appropriately named Shenandoah Vineyards. One of the oldest operating wineries in Virginia, youll be pleased with how it has integrated with the times. The tasting room is housed in a barn that is said to date back to the Civil War. Nonetheless, the interior space is modern and comfortable.
Although early in the morning on the day of this visit, we were competing for space with a bachelorette party. Fortunately, our server Gina was able to give us her full attention. An enjoyable surprise of the day was to be offered one of three different flight/tastings. The first selection is the basic tasting for $5, the Premium for $8, or the Full (which includes their sweeter and dessert wines) for $10. Choosing the mid-range option, we dove right into our tasting.
In addition to the tasting bar, the barn offers three other areas to enjoy a glass/bottle of wine and some light food. First, on the same level as the tasting bar and split away from the noise of the tasting room is a very comfortable seating area with tables. Upstairs, overlooking the tasting area, there is more space with tables and chairs. Unfortunately this area did not seem to be insulated, so it was pretty hot up there on this August morning. (Note: they do have an air conditioner for the space; it just had not been activated). Then, directly out the door from the upstairs space is a balcony that overlooks the beautiful vineyards and Shenandoah Valley.
A couple notes regarding the wines themselves; the whites were decent with my top choice being the 2104 Founders Reserve Chardonnay. Aged in French oak 12 months, it offered 0% residual sugars and provided a comfortable finish. I would put the reds also in the OK range with the highlight being the 2013 Founders Reserve Chambourcin. Not being a big fan of single-variety Chambourcin, I was totally blown away. It was dry to my liking yet quite flavorful without being too fruit-forward. Oak aged, it provided a multitude of flavors that I had not previously experienced in a Chambourcin. Well done!
If you happen to be traveling through the Shenandoah Valley, Shenandoah Vineyards is worth a visit.