Open: Year Round
We take our name from the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. This valley was known as the "breadbasket of the confederacy" during the US Civil War. Most structures in the valley were burned during General Sheridan's Valley Campaign to destroy confederate supply lines. Now, as to whether the barn survived the Civil War or was built/rebuilt soon after the war, this is a matter of contention and further research, but the barn is now our barrel room and tasting room.
In 1976 Jim and Emma Randel began the business. The first plantings, 5000 vines of various French Hybrid varieties suited to the local climate and soil, were chosen after much research and consultation with some of the few wineries present at the golden dawn of eastern viticulture. After gaining experience with the hybrids, the more temperamental vinifera varieties were planted. The original vines can be seen growing and thriving behind the winery.
The wine made from grapes grown in the valley has a pronounced fruit character. The fruit quality is emphasized by the climate and soil. During the growing season, warm days and cool nights promote ripening while maintaining fruit flavor and bouquet. Valley breezes help dry and encourage healthy foliage.
The soil here is supportive of successful viticulture. Limestone and sandstone have eroded from mountain onto vineyard, forming a hilly terrain with good air and water drainage. Roots grow deep and fruit grows sweet. With a little help from the winemaker, these local qualities contribute a regional distinctiveness to the wine.
Currently the vineyard is 15 acres on rolling hills that gently slope toward Massanutten Mountain. Eleven varieties of grapes grow in the vineyard, mostly Riesling, Vidal, Seyval, Villard Blanc, and newly planted Cabernet Sauvignon! The remaining varieties include Chardonnay, Chambourcin, and a row or two of this and that.Â
A tour of the winery will show you how the grapes are grown, harvested, and processed. You can see how wine is coaxed from the grape into the bottle. And once bottled, we invite you to sample a taste of Shenandoah.
