A decidedly fresh breath of air among the bigger wineries on the Bucks County Wine Trail, the Rushland Ridge Vineyard & Winery is all that's right with small, family-owned wineries in Southeastern Pennsylvania.
The Place: Rushland Ridge Vineyard and Winery is a quaint winery tucked in the lush landscape of Bucks County. So quaint that you need to pay close attention when approaching the winery, as you might miss the entrance if your eyes don't catch their cute, blue sign. A gravel driveway leads to the owner's home and what looks like a large shed, which upon closer inspection is in fact their tasting room. All judgments aside, once you enter the tasting room you are greeted by the owner's friendly black lab, a warm smile, and an excellent assortment of wines.
The Experience: When I arrived, the only other visitors at the time were checking out and getting ready to leave with their two bottles of wine. I stepped up to the counter, was given a tasting glass and presented with a counter full of wines ranging from the fruitiest of whites to the driest of reds. As I made my way down the line, self-pouring from the selection until I was satisfied, I talked with one of the owner's about wine, our dogs and the weather. I felt like I was at a friend's house.
The tastings at Rushland Ridge Winery are advertised at $5 per person, but when I went to pay for my tasting and buy a bottle of wine, the owner told me that she'd wave the tasting fee. She explained that for larger groups, the tasting fee is necessary, but if it's just one or two people who plan on purchasing a bottle of their extremely affordable wine, the tasting is on the house. All wines, except two special reserve wines, are $10 per bottle.
The Wines: With about sixteen wines to choose from, I didn't have any complaints about the selection at Rushland Ridge Winery. The owners have twenty acres on their property, with six more currently in production. Making your way down the line of whites and reds, you'll find a nice Vidal, Cayuga, Niagara, Chardonnay, Dechaunac and Chancellor. My favorites, however, were the Country White and the Country Red, both semi-sweet blends. Visitors should also be sure to grab a sip or two of the Strawberry Wine, which I found perfectly sweet. I purchased the Country Red for $10 and left extremely satisfied.
The Extras: Not a lot of frills at this winery, just great customer service and some good wine.
