I have been a long time fan of Women’s Wellness Weekend, what do you think I said! In fact during the meeting when the subject came up asking for someone to investigate, everyone just turned and looked at me! Does my reputation precede me????
View from serving area
Cozy sitting area
Anyway, it was love at first sight when I arrived at the winery. The first thing that captured my attention was the vista. What a lovely view. The vineyard dogs came out to greet us with wagging tails and doggie smiles. Then I noticed the winery. It was an old barn that had been converted into something magical. The staff did an incredible job bringing the “outside in." It was open and airy with tied dyed table cloths, candles, brass chandeliers, grapevine decorations and atmosphere, atmosphere, atmosphere! Debbie and Teresa, part of the staff, greeted us as though we were friends. Barbara Kohl, one of the owners, joined us to talk about the Women’s Wellness Weekend at Douthat State Park.
Tables inside the "barn"
Interior of serving area
They took such great care of us and made us feel at home. I tried the wine and was very pleased. There was a wine for every palette. From the Pinot Noir to the Traminette, all the wines were excellent. I loved the entire experience. It was the wine, the location and the people (the dogs too)! BRV has teamed with the local Hazel Bowers, an artist from Buchannan, donates her time and talent by hand painting every bottle of their Solstice wine. Each bottle is a work of art and one of a kind. Part of the proceeds from the Solstice sales benefit the local animal shelter.
Hazel Bower hand painted bottle
If you would like to get to know Blue Ridge Vineyards join us at the next Women’s Wellness Weekend at Douthat State Park near Clifton Forge, September 22 -25, 2011. Besides trying great Virginia wine, there is a multitude of programs and adventures to experience. Are you interested in kayaking, basket weaving, outdoor photography, and or massage, just to name a few? Sign up now, space is limit. Hope to see you there!
Directions: From I-64, take Exit 27 near Clifton Forge. Turn North onto State Route 629 (highway at exit ramp). Travel north three miles to the park entrance sign and another two miles to the park office.
Drive Time: Northern Virginia, four hours; Tidewater/Norfolk/Virginia Beach, five hours; Richmond, three hours; Roanoke, one hour.