Northern Neck News

Northern Neck News

September 24, 2009

Ingleside Vineyards receives international recognition

The Northern Neck has received some international recognition as a wine region, putting it in the same company as California’s Napa Valley region. Oak Grove, Virginia, home to Ingleside Vineyards and Winery, made the top 10 list of North American wine regions, published by Canoe.ca, a Canadian Web site.

Number one on the list, of course, is Napa. “The undisputed American capital of wine has earned its reputation thanks to seemingly endless picturesque vineyards and world-class wines," says TripAdvisor, the Web site’s travel blogger. "The valley's gorgeous scenery serves as the backdrop to both amazing large-scale wineries as well as smaller, intimate (but no less excellent) wineries."

Checking in at number 10 on the list is Oak Grove. “Virginia has a rich wine history dating back to Jefferson's Monticello wines in the 1770s, and nestled in Virginia's stunningly beautiful Northern Neck region, Oak Grove is home to one of Virginia's largest, and oldest, wineries," said TripAdvisor.

Ingleside Plantation has long been a fixture in Westmoreland County. Built in 1834, it has served as a boys' school, known as Washington Academy, a Civil War garrison, a courthouse, and a dairy farm.

Now the property is home to Ingleside Vineyards, as well as Ingleside Nursery. The winery is housed in the plantation's former dairy barns. Ingleside Vineyards began in 1980 and produces over 18 varieties of wine from estate grown grapes today.

On October 17 Ingleside celebrates the Autumn harvest with a special event. Visitors will be able to winemaking demonstrations, take a tour of Ingleside's vineyards and winery, enjoy artwork, crafts, exhibits and delicious food. You can sit in the courtyard and relax while listening to live music and sipping wine.

The day includes music, tours, tastings and a souvenir glass. Food concessions available or bring a picnic.

The celebration runs from 1-5 pm and admission is $15. Email Ingleside for more information.