Aug 31stHonah Lee Vineyard

When we visit Virginia, we try to find new places to visit, especially wineries, but never expected to find “a land called Honah Lee”. We didn’t get to meet Puff the Magic Dragon, but we did get to meet Eric Hopwood, winemaker. He does create some magic with his wines. We had the opportunity to talk to the winemaker and taste some really great wines.

Just outside of Gordonsville, in Central Virginia, Honah Lee Vineyard is open every day for tastings of their wines as well as some from some other Virginia wineries. The tasting room is in a lovely, cozy, welcoming location. The building itself is small, but is surrounded by grounds that just seem to invite visitors to enjoy themselves with beautiful well-kept flowers and a delightful patio. Besides tastings, they also have events, such as catered dinners and hosted weddings.

The vineyard with 30 acres of grapes, has been in operation since 1992, and has been selling grapes to many Virginia wineries. A few years ago they began making their own wines. The decision was a good one. Of the wines we tasted, our favorite was a Malbec, poured by the winemaker. Malbec wines are robust, flavorful dry red wines, usually from South American wineries. This Virginia Malbec is excellent. The other wines we tasted were also very well made and very tasty.

They also operate Berrywood Crafters and have some delicious treats, such as jams and jellies on sale at the tasting room. While the name was intriguing, we were drawn to the Cran-Ghost Pepper Jelly, but did have to bring home the Basil Jelly and Onion-Pepper Jam. They were quite good.

The visit was great and we have already planned our visit for next summer. If you happen to be in Central Virginia, take time to visit this little “land called Honah Lee.” You’ll be glad you did!