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Charlottesville Wine Tour News!

 

Charlottesville, VA Winery Tour News

What is new in on the Monticello Wine Trail

Welcome to the heart of Virginia’s wine country, where the rolling hills of Charlottesville and Crozet are home to some of the most vibrant and unique vineyards in the United States. Our blog is dedicated to bringing you the latest news and updates from the Monticello Wine Trail, a region renowned for its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and exceptional wines. Whether you’re a local enthusiast or a visitor from overseas, New York, Richmond, or North Carolina, you’ll find plenty of reasons to explore the diverse offerings of Central Virginia’s wineries.

As you delve into the stories behind the wines, you’ll discover the passion and dedication that local winemakers pour into every bottle. From crisp Chardonnays to robust Cabernets, the Monticello Wine Trail boasts a variety of flavors that reflect the unique terroir of the region. Each vineyard has its own tale to tell, with traditions rooted in centuries of viticulture and innovation that push the boundaries of modern winemaking. Our blog aims to be your go-to source for all things wine in Charlottesville and Crozet, offering insights into new releases, upcoming events, and the latest trends in the industry.

To truly appreciate the essence of Central Virginia’s wine culture, we invite you to join us on a personalized wine tour with Blue Ridge Wine Excursions. Our experienced guides will lead you through picturesque vineyards, introduce you to the artisans behind the labels, and ensure you savor every sip of the journey. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious novice, our tours offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and complexity of the Monticello Wine Trail. Let’s embark on this adventure together and toast to the unforgettable experiences that await in Virginia’s wine country.

 
 
 

Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard is Open! Visit and Tour Charlottesville's NEWEST Vineyard!

 

Mariko, our Wine Tour Itinerary Specialist, was able to visit the GORGEOUS, and newest Vineyard near Charlottesville, VA! Located in Keswick, VA, Merrie Mill Farm and Vineyard is stunning; the amount of time designing, and creating, the space and setting is unparalleled. For a full day of “wine touring” visit Keswick Vineyards, Castle Hill Cider, Barboursville Vineyards, and Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards before or after sampling the fine wines of Merrie Mill. We are excited to help you visit, tour, taste, explore, and fully experience Merrie Mill Vineyard on your next Wine Excursion. You can choose to visit Merrie Mill Vineyard on one of our Custom Wine Tours, or one of our All Inclusive Wine Tours.

Merrie Mill Farm and Vineyard’s Posh Outdoor Patio Seating

Merrie Mill Farm and Vineyard’s Posh Outdoor Patio Seating

Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard - View from second floor looking into the tasting room

Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard - View from second floor looking into the tasting room

Tasting Room

The tasting room design is eclectic and whimsical. Elizabeth Pelly, the co-owner was in charge of the (super cool!) interior design and decorating. Mariko felt like she was Alice in Wonderland! FYI - children are welcomed, and they will LOVE it. Guy Pelly, co-owner, notes that Merrie Mill is open to entertaining a wide variety of groups.  Bachelorette Party Wine Tours are welcome.  

Merrie Mill Farm Winery Tours, Wine Tastings and Flights

Merrie Mill Farm Winery Tours, Wine Tastings and Flights

Wine Making

For those familiar with Veritas, Flying Fox, and True Heritage wines, Emily Hodson Pelton is Merrie Mill’s winemaker. They are hoping to have their first vintage out in 2022. The current plan is to continue serving True Heritage wines as well. Merrie Mill does not expect production to exceed 2,500 cases of wine annually.

Emily is excited to work with the rocky terroir, which is a departure from the traditional red clay that the Monticello AVA is known for.

Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard grows 7 grape varietals on 12 acres of vines:

  • Petit Manseng

  • Petit Verdot

  • Cabernet Franc

  • Viognier

  • Chardonnay

  • Merlot

  • Cabernet Sauvignon

Of these 7 grape varietals, only the Petit Manseng is planted in red clay. The other grapes will enjoy Merrie Mill’s rocky terrain, especially the Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Pelly’s added the turbines following the devastating frost of May 2020 which impacted the entire winemaking region; the only grape that survived for Merrie Mill was their Petit Manseng. This was due to the fact that this grape varietal buds later than the rest. Want to know what wines are currently being sold at Merrie Mill Vineyard? Check out Merrie Mill’s current wine offerings here.

Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard, Tasting Room - The Bar

Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard, Tasting Room - The Bar

Merrie Mill Wine Tour

Merrie Mill Wine Tour

Terroir

Merrie Mill’s idyllic farm stretches across more than 400 acres. Rolling hills and the maturing of vines are the views one can bask in from the Vineyard Terrace. The rocky soil will make for some different flavor profiles from other typical styles on the Monticello AVA. We cannot wait until their release dates in 2022!

Merrie Mill Winery Tours

Merrie Mill Winery Tours

Wine Tasting Spaces

Several different spaces for different groups sizes.

  • Vineyard Terrace

  • Covered Patio w/ Ceiling Fans

  • Uncovered Patio w/ Umbrellas

  • Additional seating on the lawn with canopy tents.

New grass has been planted for future expansion to feature larger tables for additional group seating.

Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard - The Most Unique Wine Tasting Experience on the Monticello Wine Trail

Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard - The Most Unique Wine Tasting Experience on the Monticello Wine Trail

Food

To accompany your wine tasting, glass, or bottle, Merrie Mill Vineyards offers some shareable platters to enjoy:

  • Cheese and Charcuterie

  • Hummus Platter

  • Chicken Salad Share Platter

  • Pimento Cheese Platter

Don’t forget to check out their dessert bites from Chandler’s Bakery.

Merrie Mill Vineyards Tour and Wine Food Pairing

Merrie Mill Vineyards Tour and Wine Food Pairing

Welcome to Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyards!

Chris, their GM, is very welcoming and kind and always happy to discuss favorite wines. He was trained under Sommeliers in Chicago and has extensive experience with old world wine. He is excited to be a part of the Virginia Wine Industry, and specifically Merrie Mill.

Much of the art in the building is original antique and must be experienced in person. You can also learn more about the Pelly’s and the story of Merrie Mill from their website’s About page.

Join us for a Wine Tour soon to visit Merrie Mill Farm and Vineyard.  We look forward to helping you explore the newest Vineyard on the Monticello Wine Trail!

Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard - Entrance Signage

Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard - Entrance Signage

 
Eric Bryant