Barren Ridge has been making award winning wines since 2007. Barren Ridge is found in the Shenandoah Valley, the original spot where Europeans planned to plant vitis vinifera, before they were persuaded to attempt planting in the Charlottesville area. Barren Ridge, which used to be a site of an apple orchard, has low nutrient mostly limestone soil. The low vigor and excellent drainage allows for the easier growth of many vinifera varietals. Although not possessing the sun and dry heat of California, many liken Virginian wines to those of France, which Mr. Jefferson so admired. Our Meritage blend has won a number of awards including Best in Show at the Virginia State Fair for the 2007 and 2008 vintages. Additionally the 2009 and 2010 vintage have both won gold medals in the Virginia’s Governor’s cup. Awards for the other varietals are listed on their page.
While mostly holding true to a dry European wine making style, Barren Ridge’s extensive labels offers something for every palate. Harmony and Red Barren, which are both off-dry blends are two of our more popular wines. Additionally John and our winemaker always attempts new techniques, whether it be a port style, sparkling wine or ice wine, we all enjoy the challenge of working with a new grape or wine making style. Feel free to explore our current labels below. Visit our tastings page for pricing information.
White Wines
- 2014 Harmony
- 2014 Traminette
- 2014 Viognier
- 2015 Chardonnay
- 2015 Chardonnay - Mary Baldwin University
- 2015 Tinkling Spring
- 2015 Vidal Blanc
Red Wines
- 2013 Petit Verdot
- 2014 Cabernet Franc (temporarily unavailable)
- 2014 Merlot
- 2014 Red Barren (NV)
- 2014 Touriga
- 2015 Rose Wine
- 2015 Merlot - Mary Baldwin University