Well Hung Vineyard: How to Properly Train Your Grapevines for Maximum Yield

Well Hung Vineyard is a Virginia-based winery that offers a unique and flavorful experience for wine enthusiasts. Established in 2008 by three women, the vineyard has grown to become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The name "Well Hung" is a term used in the wine industry to describe robust grapes hanging low from the vine, and it perfectly encapsulates the quality of the wines produced by the vineyard.

Located in Gordonsville, Virginia, Well Hung Vineyard boasts a beautiful setting that allows visitors to enjoy the scenic views while sipping on a glass of their favorite wine. The vineyard offers a wide variety of wines, including reds, whites, and rosés, all made from grapes grown on the estate. In addition to wine, the vineyard also offers a menu of delicious food options that are expertly paired with their wines.

Whether you're a wine connoisseur or simply looking for a relaxing day out, Well Hung Vineyard is the perfect destination. With its stunning location, delicious wines, and great food, it's no wonder that the vineyard has become a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

History of Well Hung Vineyard

Well Hung Vineyard is a family-owned winery located in Gordonsville, Virginia. The vineyard was founded in 2006 by Anthony and Sabrina Herring, who had a passion for wine and a desire to create their own label.

The name "Well Hung" was chosen as a nod to the vineyard's location on a former dairy farm, where cows were once "well hung" to dry. The Herrings saw this as a playful and memorable name that would stand out in a crowded wine market.

The vineyard started with just a few acres of vines, but has since expanded to over 20 acres. Well Hung Vineyard produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Viognier, Cabernet Franc, and Meritage. The vineyard has won numerous awards for its wines, including a gold medal at the 2018 Virginia Governor's Cup.

In addition to producing wine, Well Hung Vineyard also operates a tasting room where visitors can sample their wines and enjoy the scenic views of the vineyard. The tasting room is open year-round and offers a variety of events and activities, such as live music, food trucks, and wine dinners.

Overall, Well Hung Vineyard has become a popular destination for wine enthusiasts and tourists alike, thanks to its high-quality wines, unique name, and beautiful location.

Location and Climate

Virginia's Wine Region

Well Hung Vineyard is located in Gordonsville, Virginia, which is part of the Monticello American Viticultural Area (AVA). This region is known for its rich history in winemaking, dating back to the early 19th century. The Monticello AVA is located in the eastern foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, with elevations ranging from 200 to 1,000 feet above sea level. The area is home to more than 30 wineries, including some of the oldest and most well-established vineyards in the United States.

The unique climate and soil of Virginia's wine region provide ideal growing conditions for a variety of grape varietals. The area experiences warm summers and mild winters, with an average annual temperature of 55°F. The soil is primarily composed of clay and loam, which helps to retain moisture and nutrients, promoting healthy vine growth and fruit development.

Climate Impact on Grapes

The climate of Virginia's wine region has a significant impact on the flavor and quality of the grapes grown there. Warm summers and ample sunlight promote sugar accumulation in the grapes, resulting in a higher alcohol content and fuller body in the finished wine. The mild winters allow the vines to enter a period of dormancy, which promotes healthy growth and fruit development during the growing season.

However, the climate can also pose challenges for grape growers. Heavy rainfall and high humidity can lead to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and downy mildew, which can damage the vines and reduce crop yields. Additionally, late spring frosts can damage or kill young grape buds, resulting in reduced yields or even total crop loss.

Overall, Virginia's wine region offers a unique combination of climate, soil, and history that make it an ideal location for winemaking. Well Hung Vineyard takes advantage of these favorable conditions to produce high-quality wines that showcase the unique flavors and characteristics of the region's grapes.

Wine Production

Grape Varieties

Well Hung Vineyard is known for their full-bodied wines, noted for well-received varieties derived from endowed, fruitful vines. They grow several grape varieties, including:

Wine Making Process

Well Hung Vineyard follows a traditional wine making process to craft their award-winning wines. The process involves several steps, including:

1. Harvesting: Grapes are hand-picked at the peak of ripeness to ensure optimal flavor and quality.
2. Crushing and Pressing: Grapes are crushed and pressed to extract the juice.
3. Fermentation: Yeast is added to the juice to convert sugar into alcohol. The juice is then left to ferment in stainless steel tanks.
4. Aging: After fermentation, the wine is aged in oak barrels for several months to add complexity and depth of flavor.
5. Bottling: The wine is bottled and stored in temperature-controlled conditions until it is ready to be sold.

Well Hung Vineyard takes great care in every step of the wine making process to ensure that their wines are of the highest quality.

Wine Varieties and Tasting Notes

Well Hung Vineyard offers a variety of wines, including red, white, and rose wines. Each wine has its unique taste and aroma, making it a perfect choice for wine enthusiasts. In this section, we will discuss the different wine varieties and their tasting notes.

Red Wines

Well Hung Vineyard produces several red wines, including Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Each of these wines has a distinct flavor profile and aroma.

• Merlot: The Merlot has a deep red color with aromas of black cherry, plum, and vanilla. It has a smooth and velvety texture with flavors of dark fruit and a hint of spice.
• Cabernet Franc: The Cabernet Franc has a ruby red color with aromas of blackberry, raspberry, and tobacco. It has a medium body with flavors of black fruit, pepper, and a hint of oak.
• Petit Verdot: The Petit Verdot has a dark purple color with aromas of blackberry, blueberry, and violet. It has a full body with flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and a hint of tobacco.

White Wines

Well Hung Vineyard also produces several white wines, including Chardonnay, Viognier, and Pinot Gris. These wines have a refreshing taste and aroma, making them perfect for summer evenings.

• Chardonnay: The Chardonnay has a pale yellow color with aromas of green apple, pear, and vanilla. It has a medium body with flavors of citrus, tropical fruit, and a hint of oak.
• Viognier: The Viognier has a light yellow color with aromas of peach, apricot, and honey. It has a medium body with flavors of stone fruit, citrus, and a hint of spice.
• Pinot Gris: The Pinot Gris has a pale yellow color with aromas of pear, apple, and honey. It has a light body with flavors of citrus, green apple, and a hint of minerality.

Rose Wines

Well Hung Vineyard produces a delicious rose wine that is perfect for summer evenings. The rose wine has a light pink color with aromas of strawberry, raspberry, and watermelon. It has a light body with flavors of red fruit, citrus, and a hint of floral notes.

Overall, Well Hung Vineyard offers a range of wines that cater to different taste preferences. Whether you prefer red, white, or rose wine, there is something for everyone.

Visiting the Vineyard

Well Hung Vineyard is a charming vineyard located in Gordonsville, Virginia. Visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences at the vineyard, including tours, tastings, and events.

Tours and Tastings

Well Hung Vineyard offers guided tours of the vineyard and winery, where visitors can learn about the winemaking process and the history of the vineyard. The tours are led by knowledgeable staff members who are passionate about wine and eager to share their knowledge with visitors.

After the tour, visitors can enjoy a tasting of the vineyard's wines. The tastings include a selection of the vineyard's signature wines, as well as limited edition and reserve wines. Visitors can also purchase bottles of their favorite wines to take home with them.

Events and Festivals

Well Hung Vineyard hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including wine festivals, live music events, and more. The vineyard's events are a great way to experience the vineyard's wines, as well as the local food and culture.

One of the most popular events at the vineyard is the Annual Harvest Festival, which takes place in the fall. The festival features live music, local food vendors, and of course, plenty of wine. Visitors can also participate in grape stomping and other harvest activities.

Overall, Well Hung Vineyard is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience in Virginia's wine country.

Conclusion

Well Hung Vineyard is a winery and restaurant that offers award-winning wines and imaginative seasonal menus. The vineyard is located in Gordonsville, Virginia, and has received positive reviews from customers on platforms such as TripAdvisor and Yelp.

The winery's portfolio includes 12 different wines, including a dry rosé, a white blend, and a red blend. Customers can also enjoy craft cocktails and a variety of food options, including vegetarian-friendly dishes. The restaurant's menu changes seasonally, ensuring that customers can always try something new.

Well Hung Vineyard has received recognition for its wine-making, including a gold medal in the 2021 Virginia Governor's Cup for its 2017 Cabernet Franc. The winery also offers tastings and tours for those interested in learning more about its wine-making process.

Overall, Well Hung Vineyard is a great option for those looking to enjoy delicious food and wine in a beautiful setting. With its award-winning wines, creative menus, and welcoming atmosphere, it's no surprise that it has received positive reviews from customers and recognition from the industry.