Stinson Vineyards

About Winery and Wines

Stinson Vineyards is a family-owned estate winery in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains specializing in small lot wines with a distinct French influence. The father/daughter team of Scott Stinson and Rachel Stinson Vrooman takes inspiration from “garagiste” wineries of France, in both their winemaking techniques and the winery itself, which is built into an old three car garage. The wines of Stinson Vineyards are enjoying growing critical acclaim, and the winery has become a visitor destination for its fine wines, stunning views, and artisan farm store.

The first vines at Piedmont House were planted over 40 years ago by “Father of Modern Virginia Wine” Gabriele Rausse. Primarily consisting of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, the vineyard fell into disrepair through multiple changes in owners. After tearing the disease-ridden vines out on the recommendation of renowned viticulturist and vineyard consultant Lucie Morton, the long neglected soil has been returned to a growable state. Seven acres are currently replanted with carefully selected clones of Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Petit Manseng, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Tannat. The new vines and rows are closely spaced in the French method and utilize a Vertical Shoot Position (VSP) trellis system with cane pruning to ensure optimal exposure of the grape clusters to sunlight. Close spacing curtails vine vigor, and careful pruning limits the amount of fruit per vine, resulting in quality berries with concentrated flavors. Carefully sourced fruit from other Virginia growers adds the complexity of different terroirs and microclimates to the wines. Grapes come from as far North as Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley and as close as Mount Juliet/Grace Estates.