Valley Road Vineyards Shines Bright with Record-Setting Wins

In a remarkable turn of events, Valley Road Vineyards in Afton, Virginia, has celebrated an extraordinary half-year, highlighted by a series of accolades that set the winery apart in the competitive world of viticulture. On March 12, their 2023 Cabernet Franc Reserve not only won the prestigious Virginia Governor’s Cup but also stood out among a staggering 670 entries, affirming its status as the best among Virginia’s finest wines.

Recognition at the Virginia Governor’s Cup

The Virginia Governor’s Cup competition awarded 224 gold medals to 113 wineries and cideries, but it was Valley Road’s Cabernet Franc that captured the coveted title, showcasing the winery's commitment to excellence. Winemaker Corry Craighill, who crafted this exceptional wine from 100 percent Cabernet Franc grapes sourced from the winery's own Grayson Vineyard located in the Monticello AVA, has demonstrated that quality fruit is the foundation of exceptional wine.

International Accolades in Paris

As if the local accolades were not enough, the winery's achievements soared to international heights when the same Cabernet Franc outperformed two French competitors in a blind tasting event in Paris titled "Old World, New Roots." Organized by Frank Morgan, the event celebrated the remarkable evolution of Virginia wines in comparison to esteemed wines from France. This win further cements Valley Road’s reputation on a global stage, much to the delight of CEO and co-founder Stan Joynes.

A Passionate Journey

The story of Valley Road Vineyards is not just about winning awards; it is a testament to passion and collaboration. Founded in 2015 by a group of friends with diverse professional backgrounds in law, advertising, and real estate, the winery represents a blend of expertise and love for winemaking. Joynes reflects on the evolution of their wine quality, attributing much of their success to the meticulous care provided by vineyard manager Grayson Poats, who has been instrumental in planting and nurturing the winery's vineyards.

As Valley Road Vineyards continues to garner attention for its high-quality wines, it stands as a beacon of success in Virginia's growing wine industry, inspiring both established and new wineries alike. The future looks bright for this passionate team, who are determined to keep raising the bar and showcasing the best of Virginia's viniculture.