Middleburg Life | October 2021 Issue

Volume 38 Issue 10 | October 2021 | middleburglife.com

BEST PLACES TO SEE THE FALL FOLIAGE

5 FARM BREWERIES

TO TRY THIS FALL

After 400 Years, Virginia Wines Have Come of Age Why The Buttery lives up to the hype

TALKING WINE

WITH

RACHEL

MARTIN OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

MIDDLEBURG REAL ESTATE

ATOKA

PROPERTIES

S I M P LY B E T T E R .

UNDER CONTRACT

33846 FOXLEASE LN | UPPERVILLE

5742 KEYSER RD | HUME

$9,500,000 | Magnificent Foxlease Farm on 160+/- acres. One-of-a-kind equestrian facility: 2 horse barns (12 stalls/17 stalls), 3 run-ins, machine shed, hay barn, riding ring, multiple fenced paddocks, 2 silos. Beautiful stone center building added to the existing 19th-century home.

$1,550,000 | This spectacular property, located in the heart of Virginia's Piedmont, is filled with special features!

41 rolling acres, privately situated with lovely mountain views, stocked pond and breath-taking vistas from every window.

Peter Pejacsevich 540.270.3835

Scott Buzzelli 540.454.1339

Buyer’s Agent: Eric Diello 703.232.7265

Listing Courtesy of Patti Brown, CENTRURY 21 New Millennium

UNDER CONTRACT

675 LIME MARL LN|BERRYVILLE

3718 ROLLING HILLS DR | DELAPLANE

$1,275,000 | This pre-civil war house is beautifully situated on 20 acres. Tax records date the home to 1815, one of the oldest existing properties in the county. The house and stone quarters overlook pasture, a pond and Chapel Run creek. The house includes the original hardwood plank floors & hardware, exposed beams, brick fireplaces w/ original pine mantles, center staircase, 9+ foot ceilings, & chair rail.

$937,000 | Wonderful custom home on 10 Acres in Delaplane! This 4 bedroom, 4 full bath home has 4,228 finished sqft! Step into the open main level with kitchen, livingroom, stone hearth w/woodstove, and dining room!

Lots of natural light throughout.

Anne McIntosh 703.509.4499

Buyer’s Agent: Eric Diello 703.232.7265

Maria Eldredge 540.454.3829

Listing Courtesy of Rick Urben, Redfin Corporation

13139 MULLEN HILL RD |LOVETTSVILLE

422 MILLDALE VALLEY RD | FRONT ROYAL

$925,000| INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY. Large Home on 10 acres fenced and cross fenced. 11 stall barn, riding arena, paddocks. Tenant lease transfers with sale and is rented until 12/2023.. Tenant is a rehab horse farm.

$725,000 | Charming four bedroom brick and wood sided Cape Cod house on over five partially fenced acres with a two stall horse barn. Beautiful mountain views in a small private neighborhood surrounded on two sides by large farms. Full in-law suite with complete kitchen, separate bedroom, tile floors and separate outdoor entrance.

Mary Kakouras 540.454.1604

Anne McIntosh 703.509.4499

Maria Eldredge 540.454.3829

S I M P LY B E T T E R . | M I D D L E B U R G R E A L E S TAT E . C O M MIDDLEBURG, MARSHALL, PURCELLVILLE, LEESBURG, ASHBURN, WINCHESTER & CHARLES TOWN | CORPORATE: 10 E WASHINGTON ST, MIDDELBURG, VA 20117 | 540.687.6321 | LICENSED IN VA + WV (WV BROKER JOSH BEALL)

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

TION

NG

ARENAS

HOME RESTORATION CUSTOM HOMES CUSTOM BARNS CUSTOM HOMES CUSTOM HOMES HOME RESTORATION CUSTOM HOMES ESTATE PLANNING HOME RESTORATION HOME RESTORATION HOME RESTORATION CUSTOM BARNS CUSTOM BARNS RIDING & POLO ARENAS CUSTOM BARNS CUSTOM BARNS ESTATE PLANNING ESTATE PLANNING ESTATE ESTATE PLANNING PLANNING RIDING & POLO ARENAS RIDING & POLO ARENAS RIDING RIDING & & POLO POLO ARENAS ARENAS

At Aisling, we specialize in custom home and barn construction, At Aisling, we specialize in custom home and barn construction, on, At Aisling, we restoration specialize in custom home and barn construction, remodeling, and in the Fairfax, Middleburg, Aldie, Atoka, remodeling, and restoration in the Fairfax, Middleburg, Aldie, Atoka, toka, restoration in the Fairfax, Middleburg, Aldie, Atoka, Atremodeling, Aisling, we and specialize in custom home and barn construction, Loudoun, Bull Run, Upperville, Dulles, and Vienna areas.

Loudoun, Bull Run, Upperville, Dulles, and Vienna areas.

Loudoun, Bull Run, Upperville, Dulles, Middleburg, and Vienna areas. remodeling, and restoration in the Fairfax, Aldie, Atoka, Loudoun, Bull Run, Upperville, Dulles, and Vienna areas.

aislingbuilding.com | 36582 Leith Lane, Middleburg, VA 20117 aislingbuilding.com| |36582 36582Leith Leith Lane, Middleburg, VAVA 20117 aislingbuilding.com Lane, Middleburg, 20117 justin@aislingbuilding.com | 703.389.3144 justin@aislingbuilding.com | 703.389.3144 justin@aislingbuilding.com | 703.389.3144

OCTOBER 2021 • middleburg life.com aislingbuilding.com | 36582 Leith Lane, Middleburg, VA 20117

1

OCT. 2021 middleburglife.com

PUBLISHER: Greenhill Media LLC EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jennifer Gray | editor@middleburglife.com COPY EDITOR: Chelsea Rose Moore ADVERTISING | ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Christian Bentley | christian@middleburglife.com ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES Vicky Mashaw | vmashaw@middleburglife.com Jennifer Richards | jennifer@middleburglife.com Andrea Ryder | andrea@middleburglife.com ACCOUNTS ADMINISTRATOR: Joanne Maisano MARKETING: Shell Peterson, Connor Duszynski DESIGNER: Elisa Hernandez PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Nicky Marshok HOST OF THE MIDDLEBURG LIFE DOCU-SERIES: Laticia Headings ON THE COVER For the October wine issue, we met with Middleburg native, Rachel Martin, at Boxwood Winery. Read more about this female vintner whose story begins in Virginia and goes bi-coastal.

Photo by Rudney Novaes Photography.

ON THIS PAGE Members of The Four-In-Hand Club from Unionville, Pa. came to Upperville to celebrate their 21st anniversary and take in the view from up above. Their host was Sandy Lerner, notably the first woman driver, or whip, of the Four-In-Hand Club.

Everyone was stalled at Ayershire Farm, and for their Sunday drive, the route was around the farm, up hill, down dale, and through the water! Photo by Nancy Milburn Kleck Fine Art & Photography LLC. CONTRIBUTORS Kaitlin Hill, Chelsea Moore, Heidi Baumstark, Shayda Windle, Lia Hobel, and Dulcey Hooper WHAT TO WATCH Now on Middleburglife.com IGTV series, watch The Middleburg Life |Virginia Wine Episode Celebrating Virginia Wine Month.

ADVERTISE IN MIDDLEBURG LIFE Greenhill Media, LLC P.O. Box 328 | Middleburg VA 20118-0328 540.687.5950 | info@middleburglife.com All editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher.

All unsolicited manuscripts and photos must be accompanied by return postage; the publisher assumes no responsibility.

Middleburg Life reserves the right to reject any advertising.

Distributed in Aldie, Alexandria, Ashburn, Boyce, Delaplane, Dulles, Front Royal, Gainesville, Haymarket, Leesburg, Manassas, Marshall, Middleburg, Millwood, Paris, Purcellville, The Plains, Rectortown, Reston, Tysons, Upperville, Warrenton, Washington, D.C., and Winchester.

FIND US ON: Instagram @middleburglife Twitter @middleburglife Facebook.com/middleburglife LOOKING FOR MORE?

2

www.middleburglife.com middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

GET ADDITIONAL CONTENT ONLINE!

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

3

4

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

5

WHY

LIVES UP TO THE HYPE Written by Chelsea Moore | Photos by Avery McIntosh

Over the last 10 years, there’s been a movement toward sourcing food locally. Activities like shopping at farmers’ markets, starting a backyard farm, and dining at farm-to-table restaurants have all become en vogue. But while many restaurants source food locally and regionally, not all of them put as much care and passion into their process as The Buttery does.

The popular restaurant in Millwood from The Locke Store has made a splash since its opening in August 2019. With a menu that changes every three weeks, The Buttery has become a favorite for both locals and tourists.

“There is something very different and special about the [Buttery] space and the people that inhabit the space,” Austen Willis, the restaurant’s

manager, said. “We have a really incredible team and dedicated, motivated people who are all working towards the vision. The energy is unlike any restaurant that I’ve worked at. Our customers are able to see that on the other side of the table.

Everyone here enjoys working together. What we are doing is so unlike any other restaurant in the area.”

With a rotating menu, patrons can return weekly for a different meal. Each course contains three options. By the time you’ve tried each one, there will be a new menu with new things to try.

Of course, some favorites do return to the menu from time to time, along with a rotating selection of Chef Adam Steudler’s soups, which always stay on the first-course menu.

Left: Seared duck breast served with a farro salad, shiso, and fresh plum. Right: Head Chef Adam Steudler.

6

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

It is classic Italian and French cooking with some global inspiration as well, always with a hyper-seasonal focus. “We try to give people a different experience every time,” Willis said.

Chef Adam Steudler and sous chef Jess Foltz release their upcoming menu on October 7, which will run through the 23rd of the month.

While everything on the menu is always outstanding, there are a few things you shouldn’t miss this month.

Cauliflower fritters: Light, cauliflower filled fritters paired with a Hype | Page 7

Hype | From page 6 piquant sun-dried tomato spread highlight seasonal ingredients.

White bean and mushroom soup: A summer transitional soup features heirloom beans from Rancho Gordo and local mushrooms from Rooster Dirt Farm. Rosemary from the kitchen garden rounds out the brightness of this brothy soup.

Za’atar roasted chicken: Fields of Athenry farm chicken is the highlight of this Middle Eastern-inspired dish. Paired with spiced basmati rice and citrus-marinated onions, the za’atar spiced chicken offers elevated comfort.

Black pepper linguini: Handmade pasta pairs with a mushroom ragout showcasing mushrooms from Rooster Dirt Farm. Roasted acorn squash from local gardens moves us into fall.

Mexican chocolate cake: A bundt cake is the perfect vehicle for Mexican chocolate flavors. With a bit of heat and Canela, this cake is paired with horchata and honey ice cream made in-house.

The cocktail menu rotates regularly too. Coming up in October is a selection of cocktails filled with baking spices, designed to warm up guests as temperatures drop in the evenings.

They plan to expand their space in 2022. With an increase in kitchen size, their capacity for more events and experiences will grow.

Currently, The Buttery offers monthly wine tastings and progressive family-style dinners called Sunday Suppers, with carefully curated menus by Executive Chef Ellie McMillen. The next Sunday Supper will be a harvest night, October 17. The five-course menu will feature a beet and dill soup topped with chive whip and nigella crunch, roasted baby carrots with turmeric and lime cream, served with a carrot top salad, and spicy pear with warm ricotta and house sourdough. Also featured will be the cornucopia, which is roasted baby pumpkins, wilted greens, grilled sausage, roasted figs, and pickled mustard

seeds. For dessert, enjoy a warm apple harvest cake and chai spice ice cream. Reserve your spot online for the Harvest Night Sunday Supper, but hurry — reservations fill up quickly.

Whether you’re coming on a weeknight or a special occasion weekend, the hosts want to help you feel relaxed and refreshed.

“Come as you are, whether you just finished riding horses or are going out to celebrate an anniversary,” Willis said. “We want you to feel like you are stepping away. Enjoy a seasonal cocktail or a bottle of wine, take a breath, and enjoy some really delicious food. We like to say it feels like an oasis here. We want people to feel like they are really taken care of but also relaxed and casual.” ML The Buttery is located at 2049 Millwood Road, Millwood, Va. Seatings by reservation are available Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 5 – 8 p.m.

Sunday brunch is served from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. To learn more, visit thebutteryva.com.

Top: Beverage director Jason Bise pours sparkling wine to greet guests as they arrived for the Ladies of the Vine wine tasting on September 9. Middle: Roasted red pepper and tomato soup topped with chow chow and paprika oil. Bottom: The Buttery front porch set up for their annual heirloom tomato wine pairing dinner they hosted the weekend of August 12 - 14.

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

7

Homes by Murphy Ad 9-21-21Flat.pdf

1

9/22/21

5:48 PM

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

Rebalance This Autumn

K

Take a moment for you with integrative treatments and nourishing facials. Embrace the warmth of harvest season with a pampering manicure or pedicure featuring a cozy hot apple cider soak and whipped honey salt scrub.

844.387.5238

SalamanderResort.com

2021

In Your Element.

Reconnecting with what you love in the boots that let you roam free.

7 4 0 8 J O H N M A R S H A L L H W Y , M A R S H A L L , VA 540-364-1891 › TRICOUNTYFEEDS.COM

8

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

The trusted back road expert for Middleburg and beyond...

Jackie Wynn, McEnearney Associate Licensed in Virginia

SOLD 14416 Loyalty Road Leesburg | $2,700,000

REPRESENTED BUYER 203 River Bend Road Great Falls | $2,595,000

SOLD 15950 Bridlepath Lane Paeonian Springs | $1,825,000

SOLD 37947 Morrisonville Road Lovettsville | $1,275,000

SOLD 41635 Stumptown Road Leesburg | $820,000

SOLD 3 Harmon Lodge Way Round Hill | $863,000

SOLD 505 Niven Court Leesburg | $640,000

SOLD 40242 Charles Town Pike Hamilton | $674,500

Having information is not the same as being informed. Welcome to the return of attentive service and experienced guidance.

If you are ready to pursue new opportunities, or to simply discuss your options, please contact Jackie Wynn at 540.454.1452 (m), visit VirginiaFineLiving.com, or connect on social @HuntCountryHouseGuest.

McEnearney Associates Realtors® Residential, Land, Farm, and Estates 11 W Washington Street, Middleburg, VA 20117 I 540.687.5490 I McEnearney.com Middleburg I Leesburg I McLean I Vienna I Alexandria I Arlington I Clarendon I Kensington I 14th Street I Spring Valley Equal Housing Opportunity

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

9

BERKLEE GRAD RETURNS TO VIRGINIA TO RELEASE FIRST SINGLE Story and photos by Jennifer Gray

H

annah Juliette Rutti is a small-town girl from Upperville, Va. with big dreams of where her musical profession may take her. If you hit play on her latest single “lazy boy,” or another favorite “Air Supply,” you’ll hear why her powerful voice and pop melodies are meant for bigger things than what this small town has to offer.

Rutti attended Wakefield in The Plains before setting her sites on Berklee College of Music.

During the pandemic, Rutti returned to Upperville to finish out her senior year remotely. We caught up with Rutti to find out more about who she is, what she’s listening to, and what’s next for the aspiring young artist.

Can you tell us about Berklee College of Music and what you focused on while you were there?

I graduated from Berklee College of Music in Boston with a major in songwriting. I learned about the art of songwriting, how to work in the professional world, the technicalities, and the many ways to earn income as a songwriter.

“My style of music is pop music with a very warm, fun twist to it.” — Rutti

What was your biggest takeaway from attending Berklee?

Berklee was an amazing school of music with incredible facilities and faculty, but it was a place where you had to network and go above and beyond to get the most out of it. Music is a very competitive field, but there are so many different facets of the music industry, and Berklee was so helpful for students to seek those opportunities out.

Do you think you will relocate for music now that you have graduated?

I am living in Virginia and am pursuing my music career, and if I feel that I get to the point that moving to either LA or NYC will benefit me, Voice | Page 11 Left: Hannah Rutti and her dog Niloo at Trinity Episcopal Church.

10

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

Voice | From page 10

work (tv shows, movies).

I will begin to make the move.

How would you describe your style of music?

My style of music is pop music with a very warm, fun twist to it. I often incorporate indie styles and dark pop [into] some of my music.

Can you tell us about your performance at Trinity while you attended Wakefield?

My senior recital was at Trinity Episcopal. It was for my music-directed study at Wakefield. I studied with my jazz teacher, Dr. Adrien Re, and my vocal teacher since 12 years old, Professor

Emeritus at Shenandoah University, Dr. Janette Ogg. Dr. Ogg and I studied vocal anatomy and classical music history. It was a culmination of my high school musical journey. The recital was a combination of my classical and jazz repertoire.

What do you see as your more immediate next steps in your music career?

I am releasing music and building my social media following, and pitching songs for synch

Do you write your songs?

Yes, I write all my songs.

The lyrics in your songs are fun. Are they about anyone in particular? What inspires you?

Yes, they are about my longtime boyfriend, and [they are] fun-loving, ode[s] to summertime song[s]. I am inspired by so many things: relationships, nature, my feelings, movies, books, music.

What’s your new single about, and where can we listen to it?

It’s about being in the moment and doing nothing with someone who means a lot to you.

It is on all streaming platforms. “Lazyboy” came out on August 20, and since then, I have gotten [over] 9,000 streams.

What other artists influence your music?

I am very inspired by Charlie Puth, Elley Duhe, Lennon Stella, Fletcher, Sasha Sloan.

What’s currently on repeat in your playlist?

I am listening to Fletcher’s new single “healing” on repeat and Sasha Sloan’s “hypochondriac.”

If you could fulfill all of your musical career dreams, what would that look like?

I would be a Grammy winner and be a very successful recording artist who has written hit songs for artists and myself, and done big synch movies, tv shows, play live shows, and be able to make a living solely on my music.

Can we expect to see you play a live show in the local area at some point soon or are your sights set on bigger venues?

I do not have a live show on the books just yet, but I am hoping in the near future to release my next song and do a show next year! ML

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

11

RESERVE NOW!

12

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

E. Washington St. | P.O. 1380 | Middleburg,VA VA 20118 | 540.687.5588 | sheridanmacmahon.com Washington St. | 110 P.O. Box 1380 | Box Middleburg, 20118 | 540.687.5588 | sheridanmacmahon.co

om out | | 6 n | ttage ed eam, acres

ains | ently ge

ater o,

ALL’S WELL FARM

MARSHALL, VIRGINIA

Prime Fauquier County location on the Atoka Road | 88.34 acres with bold Blue Ridge views | Neoclassical brick home with slate roof completely updated & expanded | 5 BR, 5 full, 2 half baths, 5 fireplaces, gourmet kitchen | 10 stall barn with attached indoor arena | Pool, pool house, tenant house | Beautiful gardens | Superb condition

RUTLEDGE FARM

ROUTE 50 WEST VINEYARDS

Premier Middleburg estate | Main house of stone and frame construction circa 1740 w/addition in 1820. 6 BR, 3 1/2 BA, 5 FP, high ceilings, moldings & detailed woodwork throughout | Equestrian facilities are unmatched | 113 lush acres. 5 barns totaling 35 stalls | 19 paddocks | Derby field | 218 x 80 indoor arena | 250 x 150 all-weather outdoor arena | 80’ lunging arena | Polo field (or 2 grand prix fields) | 4 board, double fencing & automated nelson waterers | Other improvements include 3 BR, 2 1/2 BA guest house | Farm office attached to 3 BR house | Machine shed | Carriage house w/apartment | Stone spring house/office | 3 BR apartment | Pond with gazebo

Existing farm winery established in 2015 | 38.47 acres recorded in two parcels | Hilltop setting with magnificent views | 2,500 sq ft wine tasting room, main level consists of tasting room, seating areas, kitchen, restrooms | 2nd story more seating areas & bathroom | Club House of 5,100 sq ft contemporary style, wine tasting bar, seating areas, bathrooms, large deck, terrace & pool | 40 x 60 Butler building, large parking area | Unique opportunity

MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

SPRING GLADE

SALEM HILL

MIddLEBuRG, VIRGINIA

MARSHALL, VIRGINIA

floors, flagstone terrace | Beautiful drive to hilltop stetting overlooking pond, lake & mountains | Improvements include pool, 2-car garage, 2 BR guest house & apartment | Lovely boxwood gardens | Kitchen allowance to be provided | 79.89 acres

| Pool with large flagstone terrace | Large county kitchen | 4-car detached garage with apartment/ office | 9-stall barn | Covered arena | Outdoor ring | 4 stall shed row barn | 51 fenced acres

$7,500,000 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

$7,000,000 $4,500,000 Paul MacMahon Well 703.609.1905 French Country home, with renovations in 1999 protected Fauquier location | 6 bedrooms | Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905 Sandra Bravo Greenberg 202.308.3813 & 2017 | 4 BR, 5 full & 2 half BA, 5 FP, hardwood 4 full and 2 half baths | 3 fireplaces | Great views

$3,900,000

$3,690,000 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

PHALFWAY aul Mac Mahon 703.609.1905 FARM DEERFIELD PLAINS, VIRGINIA UPPERVILLE, VIRGINIA elen M ac M ahon 540.454.1930 h Privacy and 107 acres between Middleburg and The Plains | Residential Stately brick manor house c.1844 | 4 bedrooms, lovely

enclave of great character within a rich array of natural resources | Classic Virginia stone and stucco c. 1820 | 4 bedrooms, antique floors and rich pine paneling Two guest houses, stone cottage, farm managers house, 2 stables, machine shed and work shop| Extensive Little River frontage and 2 ponds | Tremendous views.

$3,975,000 Helen MacMahon 540.454.1930

kitchen, multiple porches, beautiful pine floors, 7 fireplaces, original mantels, large windows and detailed millwork throughout | Great natural light in every room | Additional outbuildings include the c. 1810 log cabin used as the pool house & a converted barn now serves as a guest house with movie theatre | 2 ponds, miles of trails, 178 acres | Separate workshop and 5 car garage

$3,462,000 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

BUTTERLAND FARM

NEWLIN MILL ROAD RECTORTOWN, VIRGINIA MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

UNISON, VIRGINIA

Butterland Farm circa 1790 Quaker farm house in the village of Unison on 8.16 acres | Beautiful floors throughout, 3 fireplaces, 2 bedrooms plus den, 2 1/2 baths | Lovely gardens, mostly open land, board fencing | Improvements include barn, garage, studio and secluded garden swimming pool

Prepare to be impressed - lovely floors, granite counters, high ceilings | 2 main level primary suites | Professionally decorated & landscaped | Over sized 2 car garage | Charming covered porch with iron railing, patio, trex decking, gas fireplace | Bright and open floor plan, easy to maintain, elegant finishes throughout | Endless upgrades

A remarkable property located within a private 17 acres of rolling pasture land in the village enclave just minutes from town | Stone and stucco of Rectortown | Convenient to both Routes 50 manor house with main level master suite | 7 & 66 | Newly renovated | Private setting with additional$1,950,000 BR | 5 stone FP | Beautiful gardens, magnificent mountain views | 4 bedrooms, $1,100,000 Helen MacMahon 540.454.1930 terraces, salt water pool, cabana, carriage house & 4 full bath, 1 half bath, 2 fireplaces | $595,000 Heated Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905 Paul MacMahon stable with 2 paddocks | Lovely finishes throughout pool & spa | 2 bedroom guest house |703.609.1905 & sweeping lawn to private trails to Goose Creek | Large shed & 2-car garage 31 acres | Private, elegant & convenient

$2,650,000

al

ALDIE, VIRGINIA

20+/- acres in fast growing Loudoun location | Currently zoned TR3UBF | Willowsford, South Riding, Stone Ridge, minutes away | New county high school under construction next to property | Currently improved by 2 residences, 2 ponds | Northstar Blvd around corner

HALCYON HILL

LONG BRANCH MIddLEBuRG, VIRGINIA

Gorgeous 71 acre parcel in a wonderful location between Middleburg and The Plains | Rolling land with stone walls and 2 ponds | Enchanting property | Property is in conservation easement and may not be divided further

MASON FARM, LIGHTRIDGE FARM ROAD

$3,900,000 Helen MacMahon 540.454.1930

GAME CREEK THE PLAINS, VIRGINIA

203 acres i River fronta 4 full & 3 1/2 Gunnite pool and private | 5 stall Ji paddocks, pa | Old d

$2,475,000 OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905

dE

Circa 18 rebuilt a beams an Barn a 2 bedroom multiple b outsi 13

Pau

WINE

TALKING WITH RACHEL MARTIN

Written by Kaitlin Hill Photos by Rudney Novaes Photography Styling by Jennifer Gray, Middleburg Life Hair by Dennis Roche and makeup by Jamie L. Johnston Roche Cover wardrobe by Cristina Ruales: Folded collar tailored jacket in forest and ruched wool trouser in concrete.

Deep V fitted mac in petrol and tech stretch legging in steel Made to order at www.cristinaruales.com

A Female Vintner Whose Story Begins in Virginia Goes Bi-Coastal 14

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

“I

t’s like breathing for me … it’s almost involuntary. I’m a vintner and it’s so a part of who I am,” Rachel Martin of Boxwood Winery and Oceano Wines says.

For Martin, her love of all things wine started as a family affair that has resulted in a bi-coastal business model and lifestyle with stops in New York, San Luis Obispo, and of course, Middleburg. As she works to expand West Coast-based Oceano Wines, she reflects on her Middleburg beginnings that helped her find a passion, master an industry, and even get married.

For many of Martin’s pursuits, the inspiration starts with family. The same holds true of her connection to Middleburg, where in November 2001 her mom Rita Cooke and stepdad John Kent Cook had purchased Boxwood Farm and asked Martin to visit and share her thoughts before the deal was final. Martin remembers describing the property as a “magical place, like a fairytale” that would not only be an idyllic home but also offered the potential of a new business venture.

“Jon, my stepdad, it was his idea to plant the vineyard and build a winery,” she says.

“And, he asked me if I would be involved and if I would run the company for him.”

Though Martin’s background was photography, with fine arts degrees from Tufts University and The Museum School of Fine Arts in Boston, she jumped at the opportunity for a career change.

“When Jon asked me to be a part of this new vision, it didn’t really take much for me to say, ‘yes,’” she says. “It seemed like an absolutely perfect change for me because I’ve always loved wine, I love everything about wine. I love the provenance of wine, I love the culture of wine, and I especially love drinking wine in great company.”

To help build what would become Boxwood Winery, Martin went back to school to learn the behind-the-scenes of the business. “Thankfully, during the process of choosing the vines, siting the vineyard, and building the winery, there was time,” Martin says.

Her education started in California at Napa Valley College, and later in France for a more immersive experience. “I went to school in Napa first, for oenology and viticulture … it’s a wonderful program for people who are working at vineyards and wineries who want to get a degree or further their education,” she says. “It’s very accessible.”

Of her continued studies in France, she says, “I went to France’s University of Bor-

deaux School of Oenology. I finished school in Bordeaux and it was a diploma of Dégustation du vin, so a sensory evaluation program which is very intense.”

She finished her schooling in 2005 just in time to return to Middleburg and continue her education building Boxwood Winery, which opened the same year. Martin says, “I went to school to understand the process because my position here at Boxwood was Executive Vice President. I was in charge of grape growing, wine production, distribution, retail, packing, and like you name it.

Vintner | Page 18

“It’s like breathing for me … it’s almost involuntary. I’m a vintner and it’s so a part of who I am.” — Martin OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

15

Quality wine starts in the Vineyard 2 3 5 9 5 Wi n ery L a n e M i d d l e b u r g , VA 2 0 1 1 7 ExperienceGreenhill.c om

16

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

Mon to Thurs: 12pm to 6pm Fr i to S u n : 1 2 pm to 7 pm N o r e s e r vat i o n s r e q u i r e d

2

1

James Charles Winery 4063 Middle Road Winchester, VA 22602

1 3

2

8 Chains North Winery 38593 Daymont Lane Waterford, VA 20197

3

Stone Tower Winery 19925 Hogback Mountain Road Leesburg, VA 20175

4

Cana Vineyards & Winery 38600 John Mosby Highway Middleburg, VA 20117

5

Greenhill Winery & Vineyards 23595 Winery Lane Middleburg, VA 20117

6

Blue Valley Winery 5535 Blue Valley Way Delaplane, VA 20144

7

Glen Manor Vineyards 2244 Browntown Road Front Royal, VA 22630

8

Rappahannock Cellars 14437 Hume Road Huntly, VA 22640

9

King Family Vineyards 6550 Roseland Farm Crozet, VA 22932

10

Keswick Vineyards 1575 Keswick Winery Drive Keswick, VA 22947

11

Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards 5022 Plank Road North Garden, VA 22959

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

17

Vintner | From page 15 We were a new company and we were still learning as we were going and building as we were going. So, there was a lot of opportunity for me to learn how to build a wine business.”

Martin stayed with Boxwood Winery, working with her stepdad, mom, and brother Sean Martin, from 2005 to 2018. During that period she developed skills necessary to start her own venture, and met two figures crucial to her career expansion, viticulture consultant, Lucy Morton, and future husband and Oceano business partner, Kurt Deutsch.

Of Morton, Boxwood’s viticulture consultant since inception, Martin says, “Lucy is local to Virginia, but she’s an international consultant as well.

So [she] really set me up super well for success.”

As for her husband, Martin shares, “I was on the founding board of the Middleburg Film Festival and I was really excited to be part of it. My husband, he produced the opening film for the 2014 festival and, maybe it wasn’t random, maybe someone had ideas, but we were seated across

18

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

from each other at a table having never met before.” The pair started as friends with a common interest in the arts, before Deutsch asked Martin out in 2015. She remembers, “I was in New York selling Boxwood Wine and he asked me out …

We were just so comfortable with one another that it was very natural.”

Martin says their relationship and their pathway to business partnership blossomed on a family trip just a few months into dating. She remembers fondly, “I knew Kurt was a phenomenal person when we all went on a trip for my mom’s 80th birthday with 17 family members. I said, ‘It’s going to be lots of family and kind of intimate,’ but he said he would love to come.”

Not only a milestone for the budding romance, the trip also proved significant for Martin’s business planning. She retells the story of how the seahorse became a mascot for her relationship and, later, part of Oceano’s branding.

“We’re scuba divers, and on one of the first dives in Virgin Gorda we saw a seahorse,” she says. “It’s very rare because they are so small and

they’re masters of disguise. They change to their environment and they mate for life. So even before we had the wine company, the seahorse was emblematic of our relationship and we would see it everywhere.”

Naturally, as the relationship solidified, Martin would meet Deutsch’s friends and family too, and make a connection seemingly as impactful as the scuba trip. “After Kurt and I were established, I started to meet his family, and he introduced me to Henry Warshaw, the owner of Spanish Springs Vineyard … it’s in San Luis Obispo, all the way on the coast,” she says.

Warshaw invited Martin to visit Spanish Springs in 2016, an opportunity she couldn’t resist. She recalls, “I am always game for an adventure … and there was just something about this that [I felt] I had to investigate at any cost.

I was just so taken by the vineyard. I did an inquiry about the soil combination, the climate, and the different clones of each grape variety. I said to Henry, ‘I want to contract for six tons of Vintner | Page 19

Vintner | From page 18 Chardonnay.’ I just had a vision and I just saw the future in that moment.”

With a vision in mind, Martin asked then-boyfriend Deutsch to join her in building Oceano Wines, a process that would bring “it all full circle,” notes Martin. Oceano takes its name from Spanish Springs’ proximity to the ocean, making Martin’s beloved seahorse an appropriate part of the branding.

Additionally, Boxwood’s Lucy Morton connected Martin with winemaker Marbue Marke, who would take Martin on as a client. Of that meeting Martin shares, “We got along smashingly and we had the best time. So we signed a contract and he became our winemaker.” The pair started with one very Californian varietal, Chardonnay.

“I knew I could make an amazing Chardonnay from this place,” she says. “But more than just making amazing wines, I could make a wine that people were looking for. I knew a California Chardonnay didn’t have to be oaky, heavy, or high alcohol, that it could be more food-friendly, more people-friendly.”

In 2016, Marke used Martin’s grapes to make the Oceano Wine Chardonnay. “We’re in a special enclave where we can make wines that are mature, that don’t have that high of an alcohol content … It’s just refreshing and vibrant, and you’re not going to pay for it later,” Martin describes.

Martin followed up with a Pinot Noir in 2018, the same year she married Deutsch.

Though her process is distinctly California, using grapes grown in San Luis Obispo and turned to wine in Napa, the final product finds its way back to her Middleburg home. “Our Chardonnay showed up at the 2017 Middleburg Film Festival,” she says. And the new business has more plans to pop up in Hunt Country in the years to come.

“We’re launching a vintage VW bus, mobile tasting room for Oceano,” she says. “It’ll start on the East Coast because I want to try it out close to home. So we’ll do private events at people’s homes, luxury events at places like Salamander.

I am a bi-coastal person and there’s no reason I can’t bring the west coast to the east coast in a really cool vintage VW.” It’s no surprise that Martin would bring her

new venture back to Middleburg where it all began as she feels, “very connected to the area.”

“I started my career here at Boxwood, I have a huge network of family and friends here, and I just love the area so much,” she says. Though she splits her time between California, New York where she lives with her husband, and Middle-

burg, she plans to spend more time here in the coming months and bring Oceano with her.

“I’ll be back for the fall races, the film festival, and the Christmas Parade,” she says. “So I’ll do pop-up wine tastings in local boutiques. Actually, I’ll be at Tully Rector on December 4th, serving and selling wine, come find me there.” ML

Left: Rachel Martin with Oceano winemaker Marbue Marke. Right: Rachel Martin with her mother, Rita Cooke. Photos by ©Suzanne Becker Bronk.

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

19

OPENS IN MIDDLEBURG Written by Dulcy B. Hooper | Photos by Joanne Maisano

T

he celebratory grand opening, ribbon cutting, and signage installation are still in the works, but Raymer’s Homemade Candies opened its Middleburg shop in June, a delightful treat for chocolate lovers.

Raymer’s Homemade Candies is a family-run business with its primary location in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. It is owned by Mark and Sue Raymer, “with a lot of support from their children and grandchildren in both the candy-making and operational side of the business.”

In 1967, Mark Raymer, serving as an apprentice to his father-in-law in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, learned the art of “pan candy.” Pan candies are recipes based on the natural caramelization of fresh cream and sugar, poured into pans or handrolled. In 2001, Raymer’s Homemade Candies was launched in its Doylestown location, using the traditional recipes from the late 1880s. As an addition to the original recipes, Raymer uses only pure Belgian chocolate in his creations.

Mark Raymer still does most of the candy-making, with help from son Cory Raymer and son-in-law Kelly Kujath. The Raymers’ daughter,

20

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

Lisa Kujath, runs the retail portion of the family business, and Cayce Rockhill, whose significant other is Cory Raymer, manages the Virginia location.

With Raymer family members living in the Ashburn area, the business expanded to Ashburn in 2018, opening its local outpost at One

Loudoun. That location closed last December, one of the many businesses impacted by the coronavirus.

Rockhill said that she and Cory are enthusiastic about opening Raymer’s Homemade Candies in Middleburg. The Raymer name will be familiar for knowledgeable sports fans: Cory Raymer played in the National Football League for 11 seasons, playing with the Washington Redskins from 1995-2000 and 2004-2005 and with the San Diego Chargers from 2001-2003. He was inducted into the University of Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame in 2012. Raymer’s jersey (#52) is prominently featured on one wall in the shop, overlooking a shelf of chocolates.

“We knew we would be opening in another location,” Rockhill said, who managed the Ashburn location and now manages the Middleburg shop. “When we were at Loudoun One, we had a lot of great customers, but the difference is that it was more of a ‘nine to five’ kind of business community. There are a lot of restaurants there, but we found that people didn’t just come for the day Candies | Page 21

Candies | From page 20 to wander around, walk up and down the street and stop into shops the way they do here.”

The chocolates are still made daily in Doylestown, and in another family endeavor, the Pennsylvania and Virginia members of the team meet at the halfway mark to keep the flow of chocolates coming to Middleburg.

“It is a close-knit family,” Rockhill said. “So it’s almost like ‘date night’ — we drive halfway to meet each other, have lunch or dinner and catch up with each other. Then we load up the chocolates to come back here.”

Rockhill said that she and Cory had been coming to Middleburg for several years prior to the shop’s opening. “We dined here, we enjoyed cocktails here, we shopped here. We love Middleburg and appreciated the small-town feeling it has.” The couple felt that this community was “conducive to what we wanted to do — a very natural expansion for us.” Rockhill added that she “likes knowing customers by their first name and knowing what they like — it’s part of what makes

this special for me.”

On a recent visit, Rockhill was busy decorating the shop with a fall theme in anticipation of Halloween and Thanksgiving. Raymer’s is beautifully (one might even say “tastefully”) laid out, with an abundance of homemade candies that will beckon to anyone with a love of chocolate.

In a nod to the local community’s interests, an assortment of horse heads and horseshoes can be found on a prominent shelf, and visitors can arrange to have wine bottles dipped in chocolate.

Whether to purchase a gift for others or a well-deserved treat for yourself, Raymer’s is well worth a visit. With chocolates of every kind, shoppers can find such fall novelty candies as jelly pumpkins, sour pumpkins, gummy pumpkins, and candy corn. The caramel apples cannot be far behind! ML Raymer’s Candies 19 South Madison Street Middleburg, Va. 20117 540-326-8909 | RaymersCandies.com

WINE & Mushroom dinner october 27 & 28 AT 7PM $125 ALL INCLUSIVE

tuskies.com • 703 771 9300 203 Harrison Street Leesburg, VA 20175 OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

21

Heronwood

Middleburg Country Estate

White Oak Farm

30 acres $5,900,000 Spectacular Country Estate with manicured lawns, lush woodlands and towering trees. Superbly built in a classic Tuscan style architecture, it includes 5 bedrooms 8 1/2 baths, 8 fireplaces and wood, stone and marble floors.

450 acres $4,750,000 Stretching from 5 Points Rd in the Plains, to Rectortown and Frogtown Roads in Marshall. Protected by an Easement with the Virginia Outdoors Foundation.

Located in Prime Orange County Hunt Territory, a most prestigious location.

93+ acres $3,800,000 Middleburg – 1st time offering of this wonderful ‘Hanback built’ home with spectacular Blue Ridge Mtn views. 5 BR / 5.5 BAs. 4 fireplaces, hardwood floors. Pool & mature landscaping. 2 BR / 1 BA tenant house, 6 stall barn w/paddocks. 2 ponds.

John Coles | 540-270-0094

Mary Ann McGowan | 540-270-1124

John Coles | 540-270-0094

Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201

W

W

NE

NE

Worth The Wait

The Knob

Willow Downs

Bloomfield Estate

50 acres $2,489,000 Marshall – In the heart of Virginia’s horse and wine country w/ breathtaking mountain, lake and pastoral views. Custom-built home has 5 BRs / 4.5 BAs. High ceilings; HW flooring; 4 fireplaces. Fenced, mature pasture for horses. New 45’ x 70’ equip. building.

150 acres $2,300,000 Paris – Extensive road frontage on U.S. Rt 50.

Views in 3 directions. Mostly wooded with varied terrain. Large, open plateau provides for a home site, lodge or camp. Trails & farm roads throughout. Mature trees, rubble stone walls and abundant wildlife.

18+ acres $2,295,000 Middleburg – Stunning Colonial, built with extraordinary quality and craftsmanship. 4 BRs / 4.5 BAs, HW floors, gourmet kitchen, flagstone terrace. In the heart of Virginia’s renowned “Hunt Country” an absolutely beautiful property in a storybook setting.

95+ acres $2,100,000 Spectacular parcel ideally located just north of Middleburg outside of the historic village of Unison. Private and secluded, with views of both the Blue Ridge and Bull Run Mountains, and offers open fields, lush pastures and beautiful woodlands.

Emily Ristau | 540-454-9083

Emily Ristau | 540-454-9083

Jim McGowan | 703-927-0233

Jim McGowan | 703-927-0233

John Mosby Hwy

Bull Run Mtn

W

W

NE

NE

Boxwood Cottage

OCTOBER 2021

Legacy Farm

501 acres $19,500,000 Upperville – Private 18 hole golf course built to USGA standards. 2 world class stables, 45 stalls, arena, 28 fenced paddocks.

500+ spectacular acres with Blue Ridge Mountain views. Convenient to Dulles, Reagan National and Washington, D.C.

Horseshoe Cottage

.87 acres $1,395,000 The Plains – 5,000 sq. ft. of beautifully finished living space. Open floor plan, built-in shelving, hardwood floors, stone fireplace, 9’ ceilings, many windows, 4 BRs / 3.5 BAs. Wrap around porch, fenced back yard. Generator. Great commuter location.

.45 acres $1,200,000 Middleburg – Charming cottage stylishly renovated w/4 BRs / 2.5 BAs. Detached 1-car garage w/ 1 BR / 1BA guest house. Fenced back yard, mature landscaping, rear flagstone terrace, vegetable bed & chicken coop. Enjoy hamlet life where you can walk to town.

12+ acres $709,999 Site your new home on this lovely rolling parcel located less than 3 miles East of the historic village of Middleburg. Situated just North of Rte. 50 in Loudoun County, this parcel offers close to 400 feet of road frontage. Land is currently planted in hay.

20+ acres $550,000 Travel a tranquil country road to arrive at this wooded parcel tucked into the Bull Run Mountains. A massive rock ledge at the top overlooks a cleared building site surrounded by mature trees. Minutes to the town of The Plains or Middleburg.

Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201

Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201

Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201

Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201

Offers subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdrawal without notice. Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not so warrante

22

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

The social calendar heats up as temperatures drop Chestnut Hill

37+ acres $3,495,000 Bluemont – Just north of Middleburg, stunning colonial 12 rooms, 6240 sqft of living space with 10 foot ceilings, 4 BRs/ 4½ BAs, wood burning fireplaces, gourmet kitchen. A 6 stall stable and board fenced paddocks. Blue Ridge Mountain views.

Mary Ann McGowan | 540-270-1124

W

NE

Wrenwood

25+ acres $1,485,000 Western Red Cedar home is a retreat in nature offering stunning interior spaces.

2 story gambrel vaulted great room and main level primary BR suite. Mostly woodlands and gardens with approximately 9 acres in open field suitable for pasture.

John Coles | 540-270-0094

Pool House

RENTAL $1,600/mo + utilities Middleburg – Furnished 2 BR pool house for rent on a private property. Open kitchen/living room with Cathedral ceiling.

2 small BRs, each with private bath. All amenities included. Solarium. Washer/ dryer room. Use of pool negotiable.

Rein duPont | 540-454-3355

ed nor is it otherwise guaranteed.

Enjoy some of our favorite fall events—once you’ve had a taste of life in Middleburg, we know you’ll want to stay. Contact one of our agents to make it your home.

30 Sept.

Piedmont Jumper Classic Salem Farm Showgrounds, Upperville

09 Oct.

Middleburg Fall Races Glenwood Park, Middleburg

02 Oct.

PEC 2021 Farm-to-Table Dinner St. Bride’s Farm, Upperville

14 Oct.

Middleburg Film Festival Middleburg

03 Oct.

Interfaith Blessing of the Animals National Sporting Library & Museum, Middleburg

23 Oct.

International Gold Cup Great Meadow, The Plains

06

Fall International Horse Trials Morven Park International Equestrian Center, Leesburg

24

Sunset in the Field Oak Spring Farm, Upperville

Oct.

Oct.

Visit thomasandtalbot.com/events for additional information.

THOMAS & TALBOT ESTATE PROPERTIES Opening The Door To Horse Country For Generations

2 South Madison Street | PO Box 500 | Middleburg, VA 20118 | Office: 540-687-6500 | thomasandtalbot.com

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

23

Learn How The Virginia Wine Industry Has Developed, Thanks To a Few Tenacious Pioneers Written by Heidi Baumstark

I

t’s time to raise a toast to Virginia wines.

After all, no state can claim a longer history of experimenting with and promoting viticulture than the Old Dominion. Nor has any other state demonstrated such an astounding record of failures that eventually led to fame. Peeling back 400 years of history, Virginia’s attempts of wine production are traced to its first settlers.

But it wasn’t until the 1970s when the industry really began to take root. In only 40-plus years, how did we go from a meager six wineries in 1979 to a whopping 300-plus in 2021? Chris Pearmund, owner of three Northern Virginia wineries: Pearmund Cellars in Broad Run, Effingham Manor Winery in Nokesville, and Vint Hill Craft Winery in Warrenton, puts it like this: “One glass at a time.”

As Virginia’s first multiple-winery owner, Pearmund says, “The 1970s was Virginia’s end to Prohibition.” That’s when state laws began to change, uncorking new potential for wineries.

Now the state is home to over 4,000 acres of grapes, is clustered into 10 geographical regions, and has eight AVAs (American Viticultural Area).

But Wait … A Quick Glance Back On April 26, 1607, the first English explorers landed at Cape Henry (Virginia Beach today), and when barrels of European wine washed ashore they took notice. A few weeks later, on May 14, 1607, the Virginia Company of London officially established Jamestown about 60 miles north. Because Jamestown was the first permanent English colony, Virginia is considered the birthplace of America.

Also at Jamestown, the Virginia General Assembly was established in 1619, which is the first Wine | Page 25 Chris Pearmund at Pearmund Cellars. Photo by Jennifer Gray.

24

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

Wine | From page 24 legislative assembly in the American colonies, marking it the oldest continuous law-making body in the New World. One of the laws enacted by this first Virginia General Assembly included “Act 12,” which required every male to “yearly plant and maintain ten vines until they have attained to the art and experience of dressing a vineyard, either by their own industry or by the instruction of some vigneron.”

Over the centuries, there were many starts and stops not to mention the Civil War (1861-1865) and a little thing like Prohibition (1920-1933). While much of the world brushed off Virginia viticulture attempts, a handful of pioneers pressed on; they ranged from European immigrants to brave souls hoping to keep land in agricultural use to others who wanted to try their hand at a new crop.

Read on to discover some familiar names and wineries surrounding Middleburg, which is considered the heart of Virginia’s wine and horse country.

sparked the beginnings of what would become a continuous chain of support by state government.

In 1979, the Virginia Vineyards Association was formed as a collaborative effort among Virginia viticulturists, wineries and Virginia Tech to oversee and elevate the industry. Those efforts paid off.

The 1980s – State Legislature Promotes the Wine Industry By 1980, the call was loud enough for the

The 1970s – Virginia’s Modern Wine Industry Takes Flight The Vinifera Wine Growers Association (VWGA) was Virginia’s first modern wine advocacy organization formed in 1973 by Robert de Treville Lawrence, who in 1968 planted a small vineyard of 100 vines next to his stone house, Highbury, in The Plains. The list of the group’s founders—and its general membership— was filled with prominent families from rural Loudoun and Fauquier.

VWGA disseminated information on viticultural developments and advocated for better government-sponsored research. In December 1976, VWGA reps met with Governor Mills E. Godwin and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), which released promotional plans to support the fledgling Virginia wine industry. Those actions by VDACS

Virginia General Assembly to pass the Virginia Farm Winery Act on March 24, signed into law by Governor John Dalton. This eliminated a cumbersome three-tiered system that separated manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers. Pearmund said the Farm Winery Act opened up the ability to not only grow vines, but to also make wines on the same property and sell them. This began Virginia’s modern era of the wine industry.

In 1984, the Virginia General Assembly established the governor-appointed Virginia Wine Board (then called Virginia Winegrowers Advisory Board) and created three staff positions focusing on marketing, research and education.

For marketing, in 1984, the Board hired Lou Ann Whitton as the state’s first wine marketing

specialist. For research, Dr. Bruce Zoecklein was hired in 1985 as the state’s first professional oenologist and joined Virginia Tech. For education, Dr. Tony Wolf joined Virginia Tech’s Cooperative Extension Service in 1986 as state viticulturist. In June 1987, Annette Ringwood Boyd became the second marketing specialist after Whitton.

Boyd, director of the Virginia Wine Board marketing office in Richmond, spoke about the early days in the 1980s. She said, “My focus was on promotion. I wrote an extensive marketing plan, but there were people before me, so I can’t take all the credit.” Part of her success included working with state officials when Governor Gerald L. Baliles launched October Virginia Wine Month in 1988 and the Governor’s Cup. The Virginia Governor’s Cup, one of the most stringent competitions in the U.S., is hosted by the Virginia Wineries Association in partnership with the Virginia Wine Board and the Virginia Vineyards Association. These state-wide promotional campaigns boosted the industry as agritourism grew in popularity.

Dr. Zoecklein, now retired, traveled to wineries and advised growers on winemaking styles, aromas, chemical consistency, how to prevent wine from oxidizing, etc.

Dr. Wolf is still educating growers how to plant and harvest, advising which grapes are best for Virginia’s climate and soils, the best processes to grow grapes, spray schedules, etc.

Pearmund adds, “Annette helped put the Commonwealth on the map, marketing it as a top wine destination.” She developed the passport program that lures wine lovers to winery-hop across the state, earning a stamp with each visit.

“Nationally, Virginia has a small production amount,” Pearmund says, “but we get a lot of accolades and are a leader on the East Coast because of those three people [Boyd, Zoecklein, and Wolf].”

Wine | Page 26

A special red wine sold at Pearmund Cellars honoring Virginia’s heritage. Photo by Jennifer Gray.

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

25

Wine | From page 25 The 1990s and Beyond In 1990 when Pearmund was the winemaker at Naked Mountain in Markham, there were no picnic tables. People just did tastings and then bought bottles to take home. “We started charging $2 to $3 for a wine tasting fee, which was a new approach,” he says.

Boyd agrees. “In the 1990s it was a big deal to charge a tasting fee; that was a real evolution,” she says.

In the 2000s, more changes widened the reach of Virginia wines. Middleburg’s Juanita Swedenburg of Swedenburg Estate Vineyard is known for winning a landmark case in the U.S. Supreme Court (Swedenburg v. Kelly) in 2005, which removed barriers that kept wineries from shipping directly to consumers in other states. The winery dates to 1976 when she and her husband, Wayne, both former U.S. Foreign Service officers, purchased the farm and in 1988, opened Swedenburg Estate Vineyard (now Greenhill Vineyards).

In 2007, Virginia wines spilled onto the international stage. That’s when Pearmund received a grant from Virginia Farm Credit to attend a European wine show. “We pulled together 12 Virginia wineries and went to London for an international competition,” he says. “If Virginia wines were going to sell, we had to get noticed. The London trip was a game changer. The perception of Virginia wine changed.”

Creative promotions popped up. Marketing Virginia’s ever-developing “wine country” provided an added amenity to the state’s traditional tourist attractions of beaches, mountains, historical sites, parks and scenery. Historic trust properties also found a fresh way to market themselves, attracting tourists by pouring Virginia wines.

Out-of-state visitors flocked to Virginia to experience a list of growing wineries and festivals, including foodie experiences, grape stompings, restaurants opening onsite, limo tours and more.

And with Loudoun’s proximity to the nation’s capital, Visit Loudoun (the county’s destination marketing organization), rebranded its tourism efforts in 2008, tagging the county “DC’s Wine Country.” As Pearmund likes to say, “Wine tourism is a very Virginia thing.”

The Survivors, Still Pressing On …

Originally established as Meriwether Vineyard in 1976, Pearmund purchased his Broad Run property in 1993 and turned it into Pearmund Cellars. Surrounding the winery are the oldest Chardonnay vines in the state.

Further west, Shenandoah Vineyards in Edinburg was also started in 1976 by Jim and Emma Randel. They plowed the property where Emma’s mother was born and planted over seven acres of vinifera and French-American grapes. In July 1979, they opened Shenandoah Vineyard in a converted Civil War-era barn. Pearmund says, “People, including those at Virginia Tech back then, didn’t think it would work. But Emma was successful.”

In 2018, current owner Michael Shaps purchased the winery. He also started his own brand, called Wineworks, in Charlottesville, owns a winery in France, and is a consultant. “Emma knew the potential and was happy to sell Shenandoah Vineyards to me,” he says.

Other local survivors include pioneering vintners such as Italy’s Zonin family who in 1976 purchased Barboursville Vineyards. Another is Jim Law at Linden Vineyards. He bought 76 acres in 1983, turning around an abandoned apple orchard, and planted vines in 1985; his first commercial vintage was in 1987.

Lew Parker ushered Loudoun into the county’s modern wine industry, opening Willowcroft Farm Vineyards in Leesburg in 1984. In 1980, Parker planted vines, but admits, “They all died. I didn’t know what I was doing. No one knew what

they were doing.”

Parker adds, “Those early wine makers were taking all the risks before the state decided to get behind the industry. Thanks to Zoecklein and Wolf, we have winemakers who know how to make great wines. Grapes for wine production are a high-value crop—that’s important for counties like Loudoun and Fauquier that are under pressure to keep developing. Today, farm wineries and vineyards are the fastest-growing segment of Virginia agriculture.”

In 1988, Jennifer McCloud planted Norton vines, a native Virginia grape, a few months after purchasing the Middleburg property that she christened Chrysalis Vineyards. By the 1850s, Norton was a widely planted varietal in Virginia, but it died out during Prohibition. McCloud is credited to restoring the native Virginia Norton grape and bottled her Norton Reserve in 2000.

In 2001, Jim and Lori Corcoran, owners of Corcoran Vineyards and Cidery in Waterford, started prepping fields on their property, which was a goat and sheep farm. They converted a 1750 log cabin into a tasting room and opened in 2004.

“We had the first brewery and winery combi-

Left: Willowcroft Barn and Ford. Courtesy photo. Right: Michael Shaps, owner of Shenandoah Vineyards. Courtesy photo.

26

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

Wine | Page 27

REMEMBERING SOME Wine | From page 26 nation in the state in 2010; we did that before it was popular,” Corcoran says. “We’ve always been a small, family-run winery and are one of the smallest in the state. We like it that way.”

Pearmund, who has been a consultant for several wineries, says, “If we want to increase our slice of the pie, we need to act as one slice of the pie. When we help each other, we’re helping the entire industry—it’s a collective mindset.

Virginia’s over 4,000 acres of grapes are a drop in the bucket in the wine world. If we can have our wines consistent and prove it to the world, then we can stay in business.”

As Pearmund says, “Virginia is steeped in history. It’s the cradle of the Americas. And now our wine—after 400-plus years—is coming of age, and we can hold our own.”

Let’s toast to that! ML Visit www.virginiawine.org for a complete list of Virginia wineries, cideries, and meaderies, and to download the Virginia Wine App (www.virginiawine.org/app).

BYGONE WINERIES Locals may remember Farfelu Vineyards in Flint Hill. Farfelu (which is French for “eccentric”) was the first licensed winery in the state, dating to 1967. A former Navy pilot, Charles Raney chose the name because he was told he was crazy to try to make wine in Virginia. It was known for perfect “daycations” complete with a nature trail, pond, and lush forests. The owners retired, and no family members continued the business.

Meredyth Vineyards in The Plains outside of Middleburg got its start in 1972 when Archie M. Smith, Jr. planted vines on his cattle farm, then called Stirling Farm, and renamed it “Meredyth” (Welsh spelling) after his maternal great grandmother. When the cattle market became erratic, he had to decide what to do with the land he had farmed since 1953. His son, Archie M. Smith, III, suggested planting grapes and became the winemaker; the winery obtained a farm winery license in 1975, the second such permit to be issued in Virginia after Farfelu. The Smith family went on to play an important role in the Virgin-

ia wine industry. In 2000 it closed, and in 2017, property owner Jacqueline Mars placed the 200plus acre property under conservation easement with the Land Trust of Virginia.

Less than a mile from Meredyth was Waverly, a 500-acre dairy farm-turned-winery by local socialite and horsewoman Elizabeth Merrill Furness. In 1973, the 75-year-old converted part of Waverly’s declining dairy operations near Middleburg into Piedmont Vineyards, which became Virginia’s first commercial vinifera vineyard. Her daughter, Sis Worrall, resumed vineyard operations when her mother died in 1986.

It closed in 2013.

Then there was Oasis Winery in Hume, founded in 1977 by the Salahi family. The winery was known as a popular destination for limo wine tours and classy events. In November 2009, Tareq Salahi and his then-wife, Michaele, became known as the infamous “White House crashers” for attending a state dinner allegedly uninvited. In 2013, the winery property was sold at auction.

24/7 Emergency | Behavior | Cardiology | Critical Care/ICU | Dermatology & Allergy Dentistry & Oral Surgery | Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy | Imaging: MRI & CT Scan | Internal Medicine Neurology & Neurosurgery | Ophthalmology | Oncology: Medical & Radiation | Rehabilitation | Surgery

We're Redefining Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Care

Our partner practices are now in 3 Leesburg, VA locations! | TLCVets.com |

24/7 Emergency Room : 703.777.5755 OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

27

OCTOBER 23, 2021 GREAT MEADOW, THE PLAINS, VIRGINIA • Gates open at 10am, first of eight races at 12 noon • Races run rain or shine • Pari-mutuel betting, bring your cash • Questions, please call 540.347.2612

28

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

vagoldcup.com

A PEAK INSIDE

VIRGINIA REGENERATIVE MEDICINE & SPA WWW.VAREGENMED.COM

540-905-7370

Owners Michael Poss, M.D. and Jeanne Poss The sun is setting sooner, and the nights are getting cooler. It's officially chemical peel and laser season.

A thriving medspa just down the road discusses their most popular fall treatments. "Fall is the time most people want to repair some of the damage done over the summer. We call it laser and peel season because these treatments are most safely done without the harsh UV rays threatening your recovering skin," says Licensed Esthetician Emily.

Chemical peels are a great budget-friendly option. You can find a variety of peels for every skin type here. (Some without any downtime too!)

Virginia Regenerative Medicine & Spa is the top-rated medical spa in the area with almost seventy 5 star reviews. It's safe to say they know what they're doing when it comes to aesthetics.

Lasers and peels can lift away years of damage. These quick and easy treatments are the secret to getting that gratifying glow.

Dr. Poss and his team offer BBL Laser treatments - the world's most powerful IPL device. This fantastic device treats not only sun damage and discoloration but also vascular lesions like spider veins.

"If you're unsure of where to start or are confused by all of the options out there, we're happy to help. Our aesthetic consultations are always complimentary, and we'll never encourage you to do anything you aren't totally comfortable with. It's all about feeling your best from the inside out. That's what we're here for." Says Jeanne Poss, Owner, and Clinician.

Virginia Regenerative Medicine & Spa is located in the heart of Marshall. 8451 West Main Street.

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

29

BEST PLACES TO SEE THE

Fall Foliage IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA Written by Lia Hobel

V

irginia’s fall season draws leaf peepers from all over, and the changing tree colors never fail to impress. According to the Smoky Mountains 2021 Fall Foliage Prediction Map, trees in Northern Virginia will likely reach their peak by the end of October. We’ve rounded up a few of the best vantage points to witness autumn’s beauty — from historic mansions to mountain views and everything in between.

For an equestrian leaf-peeping experience, attend the International Gold Cup fall races on October 23.

Spectators will be welcomed back to the International Gold Cup this year for the first time since 2019. The highly anticipated autumn event returns to Great Meadow in Warrenton on the fourth Saturday in October, which aligns perfectly with leaf colors predicted to be at their best.

Beyond the horses and prime people-watching, guests will undoubtedly set their gaze on the gorgeous fall backdrop as beautiful horses race by. Trees with lush canopies of burgundy, burnt orange, and golden yellow dot the horizon, creating nothing short of the perfect autumn scene.

For a breathtaking drive, set out for Skyline Drive.

Skyline Drive is a noteworthy destination for capturing autumn’s splendor. The National Scenic Byway runs 105 miles along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains starting north of the Shenandoah Valley at Front Royal to Waynesboro.

With Skyline Drive running the length of the Shenandoah National Park, there are numerous hiking trails and lookout spots worthy of catching the pops of color. For a magnificent view that extends a full 360 degrees, hike to the top of Mary’s Rock in the Shenandoah National Park. The rock mantle offers views of Virginia’s mountains and countryside. You’ll want to park at Meadow Spring parking area, milepost 33.5. Another hiking destination to consider is Pinnacles Overlook at milepost 35.1. This area offers views by car in addition to a place to stop and picnic.

Before you make the trek to the Shenandoah Fall | Page 31 Victoria Kennedy and her son at Sky Meadows State Park. Photo by Jennifer Gray.

30

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

Fall | From page 30 Valley, you may want to check the fall color webcam, which is available daily at the National Park Service (NPS) website.

For an autumn skyline that radiates like sunshine, visit the Virginia State Arboretum in Boyce.

More than 300 ginkgo trees (Ginkgo biloba) are planted on the grounds of the Virginia State Arboretum, which are highly sought out in October for their fan-like leaves that turn bright yellow. Enjoy a family stroll and be sure to picnic beneath one of the many golden canopies.

The Virginia State Arboretum is part of the Blandy Experimental Farm, a research field for the University of Virginia. The arboretum is open to the public dawn to dusk, year-round at no charge.

400 Blandy Farm Lane, Boyce, Va. 22620 Plan a visit to Sky Meadows State Park.

Sky Meadows is another state park experience that sports stunning fall vistas with endless trails and picnicking opportunities. The park is less than two miles south of Paris, Virginia.

For a moderate hike in the Blue Ridge Mountains, consider Piedmont Overlook to Gap Run Trail. This is a 2.2 mile moderately trafficked loop that is good for all skill levels. There are 24 hiking trails to choose from at the state park with a mix of open fields that clear the way for autumn views across the Virginia Piedmont. Be sure to park and pick up a trail map at the Sky Meadows Visitor Center.

11012 Edmonds Ln., Delaplane, Va. 20144. The park’s main entrance is on Rt. 710/Edmonds Lane.

Hike Raven Rocks in Bluemont and end with a festive sip and exquisite fall view.

For a moderate trail that leads to an overlook of the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge mountains, head to Raven Rocks in Bluemont. The 5.5Fall | Page 32 Top: 2020 International Gold Cup at Great Meadows.

Photo by Richard Clay. Middle: Virginia State Arboretum, kids playing in the ginkgo grove. Photo by Jennifer Gray. Bottom: Oatlands. Photo by Path Aerial by Greg Morgan.

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

31

Fall | From page 31 mile out-and-back trail is worth every minute, as it leads to the horizon of fall hues.

Best of all, the trail is close to fun diversions that are equally perfect in October. Is there anything better than the crisp air of a fall day spent at a local brewery or vineyard, following a hike?

Just a few miles away from Raven Rocks is Dirt Farm Brewery and Bluemont Vineyards. Either choice is ideal, with huge outdoor patios and lawns to relax with a beer or wine, while soaking up the glorious views from the hills of Bluemont.

Take a stroll at Oatlands Plantation.

Situated on Route 15 near Leesburg is Oatlands Historic House and Gardens — a National Trust Historic Site and National Historic Landmark. The grounds at Oatlands can be enjoyed on a self-guided walking tour with plenty of room to wander and marvel at fall’s loveliness. The beautiful rolling farmland is dotted with impressive trees, including a massive ginkgo tree that also Oatlands. Photo by Path Aerial by Greg Morgan.

32

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

carries the illuminating yellow leaves this time of year.

Additionally, there are boxwood alleys and other gardens over 200 years rich in history, as well as the luxurious mansion that’s available to tour. The stately mansion was built in 1804 by George Carter, a member of one of Virginia’s first families. The garden and grounds are open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

20850 Oatlands Plantation Lane, Leesburg, Va. 20175 Also in Leesburg is Morven Park, which is definitely worth a fall visit.

Morven Park feels like a page from a storybook during autumn. There’s something breathtakingly magical about walking the grounds with leaves exploding in yellow, orange, and red to create the perfect visual delight.

Home to the Davis Mansion, the estate includes 1,000 acres of lawns, trails, equestrian and athletic fields, and museums. The majestic façade

of the mansion framed by the Sweet Gum tree with its autumn veil is the perfect spot to grab a photo. Be sure to book a tour and leave ample time to explore the grounds.

17195 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg, Va. 20176 Enjoy wine and vistas at Breaux Vineyards.

For an outstanding wine tasting experience with some of the most spectacular fall foliage in Virginia, head to Breaux Vineyards. Located a short drive from the town of Purcellville, the 400acre estate offers an open patio and landscaped terrace to relax and admire the changing leaves that blanket the skyline. Try a glass of one of the award-winning wines and have your eyes feast on trees wearing cloaks with all colors of the season.

36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Purcellville, Va. 20132 No matter which way you turn in Northern Virginia, you don’t have to look far to experience the season’s brilliant gold, orange, and red, colors. ML

Mattingly’s

Amish Lawn Furniture

Premium Quality Polylumber & Outdoor Woods

Everyday Low Prices

“We Specialize in Standing Seam Metal”

Hand Crafted by select Western Pa. Old Order & Eastern Pa. Amish Craftsman families

NEW ROOFING • RE-ROOFING • METAL • COPPER SHINGLES • SLATE • RUBBER • GUTTER

540-687-6747 www.virginiaproroofing.com

Family Owned & Operated Since 1973 dealing in Amish Outdoor Furniture in Aldie Since 1980

703-327-4547

Exterior Experts

39469 John Mosby Hwy, Aldie VA 20105

Gutters, Roofs, Decks, Windows & Doors

Make Your Home The Envy Of Your Neighborhood

Make Your Home The Envy Of Your Neighborhood

$25 Off Gutter Cleaning

Po

Exterior Experts

Expires 4/30/2020

Gutters, Roofs, Decks, Windows & Doors

Make Your Home The Envy Of Your Neighborhood

$25 OffOff $50 Off $ $300 Gutter Cleaning

Power Washing

Expires 4/30/2020

Expires 8/15/2020

KGuard Gutter KGu +A $300 Off $500 Off Covers KGuard Gutter

KGuard Gutter Cover

Covers$3,000+ Aluminum Trip Wra Min contract Min contract $3,000

Expires8/15/2020 8/15/2020 Expires

Upgrade Your Home & Beautify Maintain & Beautify Your Home With Gutter Cleaning & Power Washing Maintain Upgrade YourYour Home With Beautiful Roof With & Gutters Home With Gutter Cleaning & Power Washing Over 100,000 services completed over the past 30+ years

Beautiful Roof & Gutters

Upgrade Your Home With Maintain & Beautify Your Visit Guttermanservices.com Beautiful Roof & Gutters Home With Gutter Cleaning Or Call 571.297.6707 & Power Washing Make Your Home The Envy Of Your Neighborhood $300 OFF $500 OFF $777 OFF

$777 O

Valid on roofs over 1,000 SQ. Ft. Only. Valid for executed contracts by 8/15/2020

Visit Guttermanservices.com Or Call 571.297.6707

Any Shingle

Gutters, Roofs, Decks, Windows & Doors

$25 OFF

Gutter Cleaning

$50 OFF

Power Washing

KGuard Gutter Covers

Min contract $3,000 $25 Offcompleted $50 Off Over 100,000 services Expires 10/31/2021 Gutter Cleaning Expires Power Washing 11/15/2021 over the past 30+ years

Expires 10/31/2021

Expires 4/30/2020

Maintain & Beautify Your Home With Gutter Cleaning

Upgrade Your Home With Beautiful Roof & Gutters

Expires 8/15/2020

$300 Off

$500 Off

KGuard Gutter Covers

KGuard Gutter Covers + Aluminum Trip Wrap

Min contract $3,000

Min contract $5,000

Expires 8/15/2020

Expires 8/15/2020

$777 Off Any Shingle Roof

KGuard Gutter Covers +Aluminum Trip Wrap

Min contract $5,000 Expires 11/15/2021

Any Shingle Roof

$777 Off Any Shingle Roof

Over 100,000 services completed over the past 30+ years

Exterior Experts

Min contract $5,000

Expires 8/15/2020

Valid on roofs over 1,000 SQ. Ft. On contracts by 8/15/2

Valid on roofs over 1,000 SQ. Ft. Only. Valid for executed contracts by Expires 11/15/2021

OCTOBER 2021

Visit Guttermanse Or Call 571.29 •

middleburglife.com

33

“T Author Linda Jane Holden to Release New Mellon Style Book Fall 2021 Written by Shayda Windle

imeless,” is how author Linda Jane Holden responded when asked to describe Rachel “Bunny” Lambert Mellon’s aesthetic, so poignantly portrayed in her latest book, “Bunny Mellon Style.”

“Bunny was an influencer on so many levels — from landscape design to art, horticulture, and the homes she designed — her style was timeless,” she says. “She took into special consideration space and light both in the garden and in the house. Bunny Mellon’s motto was ‘nothing should be noticed,’ the ethos that everything should blend together as if God had created it.”

Holden, a long-time garden historian, first met Bunny Mellon in 2009, after reaching out to the Oak Spring Garden Library for permission to conduct research on the White House Rose Garden. To her amazement, Mrs. Mellon’s staff not only gave her permission, but arranged a meeting between her and the American style icon.

From their initial meeting at Mrs. Mellon’s Oak Spring Estate, the relationship blossomed, and as Holden began to learn more about Bunny Mellon’s influence on American design, her curiosity piqued. Holden’s quest to learn more placed her on a journey that introduced her to a whole new world of design — one that crossed the lines between horticulture, art, and architecture, for over a century during Mellon’s lifetime.

“Bunny Mellon Style” examines some of the most pivotal relationships throughout Mellon’s life which influenced her timeless aesthetic that still lives on today. Between her endearing relationship with her grandfather, who always pushed her to be herself, and her friendships with some of the world’s most elite, including Jackie Kennedy, Hubert de Givenchy, and Cristóbal Balenciaga, Bunny Mellon reflected a style of understated elegance drawn from the people and places she was surrounded by.

But it wasn’t just the people in her life that influenced her. From her earliest years, Mellon was enamored with the beauty of the natural world and spent summers on her grandfather Arthur Lowe’s farm in New Hampshire, where he nurtured her interests in nature and books. “Bunny Mellon Style” explains how her grandfather “took her on trips to Concord, Massachusetts, to learn and study the world of Thoreau, Emerson, and Hawthorne” [...] “These early experiences with ‘Grandpa Lowe,’ had been her inspiration for the Style | Page 35 Top: © 2021 Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York / ADAGP, Paris. Used with permission of Isabelle Rey. Bottom left: Courtesy of Cristóbal Balenciaga Museum; photo by Paredes. Bottom right: Courtesy Thomas Lloyd.

34

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

Style | From page 34 library she later built at Oak Spring, as with almost everything else in her life,” Holden writes.

Susan Leopold, executive director of United Plant Savers, who worked with Mrs. Mellon on writing and illustrations for “Herbaria,” described Bunny as a woman who was “ahead of her time” and had a “strong sense of style and in-

tuition.” She recalls, “the books were tended like a garden.” Bunny’s library was “created slowly and painstakingly,” as were her gardens; and like her father, she never considered a project done “but always evolving in the process of creation.”

A natural introvert, Mrs. Mellon avoided the spotlight as much as possible, despite the world’s overwhelming interest in her life. “Bunny Mellon Style” takes the reader into the designs of Mrs. Mellon’s many homes, including the Oak Springs estate, her New York City apartment, the flats in Paris, and her homes in D.C., Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Antigua. Her King’s Leap estate on the Caribbean Island is now home to fashion designer Tory Burch, who was “struck by its immense beauty and felt an immediate sense of calm” there, citing that “Mrs. Mellon’s perfectly imperfect approach to her houses, and to her gardens, is a triumph of restraint.”

Throughout the Mellons’ homes and gardens there was not a surface of the properties that didn’t have a touch of Bunny’s influence. In each space, one gets a feeling that there is a cohesive blend of American design with European flair; one that allowed the Mellons to display their overwhelmingly impressive art collection which

included thousands of masterpieces, now a part of the National Gallery of Art. When it came to fashion, Holden writes, “Even today, if you speak to a local Upperville or Middleburg resident, someone who knew Bunny, they will hesitantly admit that her clothes were ‘awful.’” It was during a trip to Paris where Bunny was “introduced to Cristóbal Balenciaga, the Spanish master tailor and great couturier.” After

Balenciaga retired, he introduced her to Hubert de Givenchy, who became her primary wardrobe designer and lifelong friend.

“Givenchy would be fitting couture for Mrs. Mellon while conversing about all they had in common — things like art, wine, design, and travel. The conversations would last so long Bunny would have to nudge him, ‘Hubert, get back to the hem!’” Holden shares.

Mellon and Givenchy became so close that when he became president of the World Monument Fund in France, he sought her expertise in restoring King Louis XIV’s garden at the Palace of Versailles. Holden says Givenchy thought so highly of Bunny’s ideas that they embarked on a project together to understand how these old gardens were developed, created, and could be restored. Mellon funded the restoration of the central basin and the original gate that King Louis walked through. During the restorations, Bunny befriended the gardeners, where she learned from them, and put her skills to practice.

The book includes several journal entries from Bunny, and one, in particular, she writes about the importance of creating “an atmosphere that inspires and one can relate to,” […] she continues, “There must always be a feeling people can take home, even copy or remember later with a positive and thoughtful recall.” This applied to every structure that had been graced by her gentle touch, including the church she had designed and supervised the building of in nearby Upperville.

As Holden writes in the closing, shortly after Mellon passed away in 2014, “auctioneers diverged onto the properties of this twentieth-century arbiter of taste and emptied the contents of her rooms, her closets, her shelves, even what was under her bed” and sold it off at was dubbed the “Auction of the Century.” Holden questions the success of the auction as a matter of happenstance or “how Bunny had spun the details of harmony, balance, scale and proportion, and the details of her life with results that had turned the design world on its head.” Whichever it is, “Bunny Mellon Style” leaves it to you to decide. ML “Bunny Mellon Style” is currently available for pre-order on Amazon and is set to launch on November 16, 2021. Holden will be hosting two book signings in November. The first will be held at Creme de la Creme in Middleburg on November 18 from 1-5pm and the second will be at Second Chapter Books on November 20th from 1-5pm.

Find out more about the author, Linda Jane Holden, and her other books about Bunny Mellon and horticulture at: www.lindajaneholden.com/.

Left: Basket House. Courtesy of Thomas Lloyd. Middle: Billy Baldwin. Courtesy of Thomas Lloyd. Right: Picnic. Courtesy of Thomas Lloyd.

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

35

Stats in the last 6 months:

Get Noticed In The Luxury

91k

market

Website Page Views

*Digital & Print

950k

Packages

Facebook Page Views

550k

*Docuseries

Instagram Impressions

Sponsorships

9.6k

@MiddleburgLife

Instagram Followers

CONTACT US TO ADVERTISE www.georginapreston.com

www.middleburglife.com

GEORGINA PRESTON

info@georginapreston.com

BRITISH FASHION, PORTRAIT AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHER COMING TO VIRGINIA THIS FALL Bookings and Enquiries via Hart Equestrian: info@hartequestrian.com 36

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

Middleburg Film Festival

October 14-17

2021

advance

ticket packages now on sale

FOR THE LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES, DOWNLOAD OUR MOBILE APP

AVAILABLE FOR IPHONE AND ANDROID

www.middleburgfilm.org OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

37

THE TASTE OF LOCAL BREWS:

5 BREWERIES TO TRY THIS FALL Written by Shayda Windle

F

rom family-friendly destination breweries to full-scale craft beer distilleries with an international following, there’s no lack of unique taprooms to visit in and around Hunt Country. This year’s list of our favorite breweries contains a little bit of everything. From scenic views and fire pits to live music and events, you’re sure to find your new favorite spot to grab a brew this fall.

Harvest Gap Brewery, Bluemont Harvest Gap Brewery is a family-owned farm brewery located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Owned and operated by Mike and Katherine Virts, the family has been rooted in Loudoun County farming traditions since the Mt. Defiance. Photo by Daisy Miller.

38

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

1700s. As the farming tradition was passed on, the Virts family decided to use the land to grow barley and began brewing their own beers. Harvest Gap Brewery was born last October.

“When we opened the brewery in October of 2020, everyone was having challenges with their limitations in capacity and indoor seating,” Katherine Virts says. “We were able to offer people ample outdoor space, so that gave us a lot of opportunity, and people were happy to social distance and watch their kids play.”

The brewery includes a full-service restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, games and entertainment for kids and adults alike. A full menu offers items like the chicken, apple, brie and spinach panini, a Guinness beer bratwurst, and apple cider donuts, to name a few. The brewery also

partners with a variety of food trucks, and each weekend there’s something different to enjoy.

Whether it’s Thai, Mexican, or American food, the food trucks cater to every taste.

There is live music all weekend at Harvest Gap and a variety of events throughout the year.

As the weather starts getting cooler, the brewery opens up private fire-pit rentals and hands out blankets and s’mores kits.

There isn’t anything the team hasn’t thought of for a fun-filled day outside in the picturesque setting of Harvest Gap with a local brew in hand.

With its convenient location just off of Charles Town Pike (VA Rt. 9), we can’t think of a better place to spend an afternoon. You can find out Breweries | Page 39

Breweries | From page 38 more about Harvest Gap here: harvestgap.com.

Bear Chase Brewery, Bluemont Just down the road from Harvest Gap Brewery is Bear Chase Brewing Company, located on 33 acres of the same picturesque, wooded property as historic Bear Chase Manor. The owners transformed the manor house, originally planned as a wedding venue, into a six-bedroom VRBO rental complete with an indoor pool, sauna, exercise room, and a jacuzzi with mountain views that those at the brewery enjoy.

A few years ago the team decided they wanted to utilize the property for something more, and the idea of a brewery was born. In 2018, Bear Chase Brewery opened their doors to the public, offering a variety of beer, seltzer, wine slushies and warm food including pizza and pretzels.

Throughout the week, the brewery hosts live music and other events. The Brew Barn is known as the “heart” of Bear Chase, a renovated historic barn that houses a complete 10-barrel system on one side and a smaller 3.5-barrel system on the other side. There’s also a taproom for taste testing and plenty of room for special events or simply relaxing with a cold brew.

On October 23, Bear Chase will be hosting their first annual local beer festival from 126, including beers and drinks from other local breweries like Black Hoof, Crooked Run, Solace and more. Then on November 14, Bear Chase is partnering with Honor Brewing Company, with whom they just created a new craft beer, for a military appreciation day. Proceeds from the event will go to Boulder Crest Retreat, a nonprofit whose mission is to help struggling veterans and first responders. Find out more about Bear Chase here: bearchasebrew.com.

Mt. Defiance Brewery, Middleburg We can’t think of anything better than an ice-cold cider on a crisp autumn afternoon. Located in the heart of historic Hunt Country, Mt. Defiance in Middleburg creates award-winning, handcrafted, small batch hard cider and spirits in their two stores — the Cider Barn and the Distillery.

At the Mt. Defiance Cider Barn, you’ll find a little bit of everything, from classic and craft ciders, including traditional farmhouse blends of dry and single variety ciders, to a spectrum of infused drinks like ginger cider or their five-pepper cider, the perfect pairing for your next barbecue.

Mt. Defiance cider is best described as “eclectic and accessible, [because they] believe there should be a cider to suit a wide variety of tastes and food pairings.”

Located on a hilltop on the edge of town, the cider barn is the perfect place to spend an afternoon tasting flights or glasses of your ciders, Sweet Vermouth, or Pommeau. Snacks are available (cheese, crackers and nuts), and on warm weekends the barn normally hosts a food truck.

Just down the street from the Cider Barn is Mt. Defiance Distillery, located in a repurposed service station at the intersection of Washington St. and The Plains Rd. The distillery “explores the world of ‘lost spirits’ that had fallen out of favor either due to post-Prohibition mass production methods, out-of-date laws, or both,” the website states. They hope to honor the colonial-era town of Middleburg with one of the most popular spirits of that time: rum.

Many products are available in Virginia ABC stores and restaurants and at select stores in Washington, D.C. Tastings are available both at the cidery and distillery. Find out more about Mt. Defiance here: mtdefiance.com.

Old Trade Brewery, Brandy Station Old Trade Brewery is a rural, farm-based operation located in Brandy Station, in Culpeper County. It was opened with the hopes of revitalizing the art and culture of hand-crafted, seasonal and traditional beers once popular in the U.S. and Europe while driving innovation in the brewing industry. Old Trade offers a family-friendly environment with everything from live music, axe throwing, a bouncy house and playground, and games for kids to play while you enjoy the breathtaking landscape with their latest brew.

Old Trade offers a wide selection of beers, ciders and food options, with regular on-site events like live music, cornhole tournaments and more.

There’s even a dog park on site for your fur babies. If that weren’t enough, Old Trade is cur-

rently undergoing renovations to an event barn that will be able to host up to 115 people, slated to launch in 2022. The interior will have a rustic feel and includes a bar with beer, cider and wine options, restrooms, and heating and cooling.

The barn will also include outdoor seating. The owners of Old Trade have truly thought of everything. Find out more about the brewery here: oldtradebrewery.com.

Adroit Theory, Purcellville Adroit Theory stands out from other destination breweries in the area in that they are uniquely situated in an industrial warehouse. They started as a taproom for serious beer connoisseurs interested more in the craft of brewing rather than a family experience. Since opening in 2014, Adroit has made well over 1,000 distinct beers, and they routinely release three or four new beers every week.

Adroit is a “niche brewery that focuses on extreme genre beers,” owner Mark Osborne says.

“We routinely make high ABV beers that are as boozy as they are delicious. We are also a ‘dark art’ themed brewery, so be prepared for heavy metal blasting in the tap room at the highest volumes.”

Adroit is serious about brewing and is proud to distribute all over the U.S. in 20 states, as well as internationally in over 20 countries.

More often than not, Adroit does not make a beer more than once. Osborne says, “We do have a handful of beers that we make from time to time, but often the recipe changes from one iteration to the next.”

Adroit is most well known for their big, imperial stouts, followed by double digit ABV Hazy IPAs, and their fruited sours, which are more akin to a fruit smoothie than anything else.

They also offer many pre-packaged snacks including cheese, charcuterie, nuts, chips and jerky.

Adroit occasionally hosts food trucks, which they advertise on social media. The brewery also allows customers to bring in their own food or have it delivered. Come check out one of Hunt Country’s top local breweries that’s made a name for itself all over the world. Find out more about Adroit here: adroit-theory.com. ML

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

39

20 Loudoun County General 2020 Loudoun County Election Information

2020 Loudoun County General General Election Information Election Information OFFICIAL VOTING INFORMATION

VOTE!

2020 Loudoun VOTE! County General Election Day Is Tuesday, November 3 Election Information

VOTE!

November 2, 2021 - General & Special Election

ection Day Is Tuesday, November 3

On the Ballot This Year: • Presidential Electors • Member, U.S. Senate • Member, U.S. House of Representatives • Virginia Constitutional Amendments On the Ballot This Year: • Loudoun County Bond Referenda • Presidential Electors • Leesburg Mayor and Town Council • Hillsboro Mayor and Town Council U.S. Senate • Member, • Round Hill Town Council (Special Election)

On the Ballot This Year: • Presidential Electors • Member, U.S. Senate • Member, U.S. House of Representatives • Virginia Constitutional Amendments • Loudoun County Bond Referenda • Leesburg Mayor and Town Council • Hillsboro Mayor and Town Council • Round Hill Town Council (Special Election)

Election Day Is Tuesday, November 3

VOTE!

udoun County General • Member, U.S. House of Representatives Are You Election Ready?

• Virginia Constitutional Amendments ction Information • Loudoun County Bond Referenda

Buckingham Strategic Wealth is an established, fee-only firm serving Stay safe and vote at home! All registered voters in Virginia 1 to vote by mail, no excuse required. clients throughout the DC Metropolitan are now eligible Request your ballot today at vote.elections.virginia.gov 2 area. Our Virginia team of experienced Are You Election Ready?

VOTE BY MAIL

w These Three Steps for Speedy Voting:

Follow These Three Steps for Speedy Voting:

VOTE!

• Leesburg Mayor and Town Council

Check Your Registration. Be sure your name and address • Hillsboro Mayor and Town Council are up to date. Visit vote.elections.virginia.gov o register, check status and make changes.

• Round Hill Town Council (Special Election)

Check Your Registration. Be sure your name and address are up to date. Visit vote.elections.virginia.gov to register, check status and make changes.

Decide how you want to vote! This year you can vote by mail, in-person early, or on Election Day at your assigned polling place.

Decide how you want to vote! This year you can vote by mail, in-person early, or on Election Day at your assigned polling place.

Are You Election Ready?

These Three November Steps for Speedy Voting: Day Is Follow Tuesday, 3

VOTE EARLY IN-PERSON

Be Prepared. Check out our website at oudoun.gov/novemberelection to make sure you know what you’ll need when you’re ready to vote.

1 2 3

Check Your Registration. Be sure your name and address On the Ballot Year: portant Dates for This Year’s Election: are upThis to date.

Visit vote.elections.virginia.gov register, check status and make changes. applying for mailto ballots: NOW

• Presidential Electors • Member, U.S. Senate er, U.S. House of Representatives nia Constitutional Amendments doun County Bond Referenda sburg Mayor and Town Council loudoun.gov/novemberelection Important Dates for This Year’s Election: sboro Mayor and Town Council Your One-Stop Shop for Election Information Hill Town· Start Council Election) applying(Special for mail ballots: NOW

voting in-person begins at Office of Elections: Decidenormal how you want to vote! This year you can vote y, September 18 during business hours r Registration Deadline: Tuesday, October p.m. by mail, in-person early, 13 oraton5 Election Day at your ck or update your info at vote.elections.virginia.gov assigned polling place. voting at satellite voting centers begins: Saturday, ber 17 – see back for dates and times.

Be Prepared. Check out our website at Day to Request a Ballot Be Mailed to You: Friday, ber 23 at 5 p.m. loudoun.gov/novemberelection to make sure you know you’ll Saturday, need when you’re31.ready to vote.

Day to vote earlywhat in-person: October

· Early voting in-person begins at Office of Elections: Friday, September 18 during normal business hours · Voter Registration Deadline: Tuesday, October 13 at 5 p.m.

Check or update your info at vote.elections.virginia.gov ree Steps forvoting Speedy Voting: · Early at satellite voting centers begins: Saturday, October 17 – see back for dates and times. · Last Day Request a Ballot Be Mailed to You: Friday, Registration.

Be tosure your name and address October 23 at 5 p.m. ate. Visit vote.elections.virginia.gov · Last Day to vote early in-person: Saturday, October 31.

e You Election Ready?

3 Early In-person voting, no excuse required, will be available Be Prepared. Check out our website at loudoun.gov/novemberelection to make sure you know what you’ll need when you’re ready to vote.

Important Dates for This Year’s Election:

at the following locations, dates and times: · Start applying for mail ballots: NOW

· Early voting in-person begins at Office of Elections: Friday, September 18 during normal business hours · Voter Registration Deadline: Tuesday, October 13 at 5 p.m.

Check or update your info at vote.elections.virginia.gov · Early voting at satellite voting centers begins: Saturday, October 17 – see back for dates and times. · Last Day to Request a Ballot Be Mailed to You: Friday, October 23 at 5 p.m. · Last Day to vote early in-person: Saturday, October 31.

Office of Elections, Leesburg, VA Beginning Friday, September 18:

• Monday through Friday – 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday, October 17 loudoun.gov/novemberelection through October Your One-StopSaturday, Shop for Election Information31: • Saturdays – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Monday, Wednesday, Friday – 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Tuesday, Thursday – 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Ridgetop Office Building, Sterling, VA & Dulles South Senior Center, South Riding, VA: Saturday, October 17 through Saturday, October 31:

check status and make changes.

Polls will be open from 6:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

• Vote on Election Day: Tuesday, Nov. •2. Saturdays loudoun.gov/novemberelection – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. w you want to Your vote!

ThisShop year can vote One-Stop for you Election Information • Monday, Wednesday, Friday – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. person early, or on Election Day at your Judith Brown, General Registrar | 750•Miller Drive,Thursday SE, Suite C Leesburg, 20175 Tuesday, – Noon Virginia to 8 p.m. olling place.

Email: vote@loudoun.gov | Telephone: 703-777-0380

Carver Senior Center, Purcellville, VA:

d. Check out our website at v/novemberelection to make sure you know need when you’re ready to vote.

Saturdays ONLY: October 17, October 24, October 31 – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Dates for This Year’s Election:

ELECTION OFFICERS NEEDED!

or mail ballots: NOW person begins at Office of Elections: ber 18 during normal business hours on Deadline: Tuesday, October 13 at 5 p.m. e your info at vote.elections.virginia.gov satellite voting centers begins: Saturday, e back for dates and times. quest a Ballot Be Mailed to You: Friday, p.m. e early in-person: Saturday, October 31.

Join our team of more than 1,000 dedicated citizens who serve at the polls on Election Day. To sign up online: Visit vote4loudoun.com/pollaccess and click the “Create New Account” button

Programs for High School Students Students ages 16 and 17 can provide valuable assistance to the teams working at a voting precinct by serving as Election Pages. Election Pages receive a letter of recommendation and a certificate of participation, as well as applicable credit. Learn more at loudoun.gov/electionpage

n.gov/novemberelection

-Stop Shop for Election Information

40

middleburglife.com

•

investment management and creative financial planning solutions.

OCTOBER 2021

Sound Advice — Uncommon Service

®

Fairfax | 703.760.3673 Middleburg | 540.931.9051 Buckingham-NOVA.com

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

41

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

ART AT THE MILL: FALL ART SHOWS October 2 - 17 | clarkehistory.org Art at the Mill is back! Join us this fall as the Burwell-Morgan Mill turns into a one-of-a-kind art gallery featuring works for purchase by over 200 local artists. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors, students free. Hours are Sunday – Friday from 12 - 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. 5 p.m.

“SALUTE TO AUTUMN” AT THE BYRNE GALLERY October 6 - 31 | thebyrnegallery.com The Byrne Gallery in Middleburg is proud to present “Salute to Autumn” with iconic Virginia landscape paintings by Gerald Hennesy, the new exhibit for the month of October. Mr. Hennesy just celebrated his 100th birthday on June 11, earlier this summer. Now, this autumn his scenes of the local Virginia countryside will be showcased in a one-man exhibition. There will be a special reception on October 16 from 4 - 7 p.m. and all are invited to attend.

MYTHBUSTING LAWN JOCKEYS: UNTANGLING HISTORY FROM LORE October 7 | 6 - 7:30 p.m. | nationalsporting.org Lawn jockeys and hitching posts, depending on the viewer, are a symbol of varied and, sometimes, contradictory meanings. The National Sporting Library & Museum will navigate through the muddied waters of history to explore long-held beliefs and uncover these objects’ true stories. Please note: this event will now be held

42

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

exclusively virtually! Virtual space is limited, so save your spot for this program. This program is held live on Zoom. Free for NSLM Members and $10 for non-members.

MIDDLEBURG COFFEE & CARS AT MIDDLEBURG COMMON GROUNDS October 9 | 7 - 9:30 a.m. | middleburgcommongrounds.com Join us at Middleburg Common Grounds for Coffee & Cars! North Pickering St. will be closed for event parking Saturdays from 7-9:30 a.m. The events will be weather permitting with no rain date.

DELAPLANE CELLARS WINE DINNER October 9 | 7-10 p.m. | salamanderresort.com The Market Salamander team and Chef Pete Smith are joining with Delaplane Cellars for an evening of fine Virginia wines paired harmoniously with dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients. The carefully crafted wines made from 100% vinifera varietals grown in Virginia paired with a chef-driven menu of seasonal ingredients will be a magnificent representation of what the Hunt Country region has to offer. $125 per guest.

Reservations required. To reserve, please call 540-687-9726 during regular business hours.

VETERANS APPRECIATION PICNIC October 10 | 12 - 4 p.m. | middleburgcommunitycenter.com To all the veterans out there, we salute you! Thank

you for your service and sacrifice! The Middleburg Community Center would like to take a moment to thank our local veterans for their sacrifice, time, and honor fighting for our country.

Local veterans and their families are invited to join us for an outdoor picnic to honor our local veterans. Enjoy live music, corn hole and kids activities, 1 free BBQ meal by Fields of Athenry Farm and 1 craft beer by Honor Brewing Co. (additional drinks available for purchase), beers on tap by the Tip Top Tap Truck. RSVP required.

This event is free, donations are appreciated.

MIDDLEBURG FILM FESTIVAL October 14 - 17 | Times Vary middleburgfilm.org The Middleburg Film Festival offers four days of fantastic films in a spectacular setting. Other special events include “fireside chats” with filmmakers and actors, concerts featuring the work of renowned composers and songwriters, wine or craft beer and conversation at local vineyards and breweries, farm-to-table dinners, and great parties!

SUNDAY SUPPERS: HARVEST NIGHT October 17 | 7 - 9 p.m. | lockestore.com Join us for a progressive, family-style dinner at The Buttery. Dinner starts at 7 p.m. and will feature a seasonally inspired menu from executive chef Ellie McMillen and The Buttery Kitchen along with a menu of hand-picked wines, beers, Calendar | Page 43

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Calendar | From page 42 and cocktails. Reservations are $55 per person and include multiple courses throughout the evening.

BURGUNDY & CHAMPAGNE WINE PAIRING DINNER October 22 | 6:30 - 9 p.m. | lockestore.com Hugues Beaulieu of Elite Wines Imports and Olivier Lotterie of Vineyard Brands will be presenting eight wines alongside six courses of Burgundian-inspired fare from The Buttery’s executive chef Ellie McMillen. Tickets are $150 per person.

Call 540-837-1275 or email our wine manager, Kelly McGrath (wine@lockestore.com), to reserve your table.

INTERNATIONAL GOLD CUP AT GREAT MEADOW October 23 | vagoldcup.com The legendary annual Virginia Gold Cup steeplechasing classic is a highlight of the fall season.

Enjoy up-close viewing where you will feel the horses thundering hooves as they race by your party or a tent on prestigious Members Hill. Pack your own picnic basket or purchase food and beverages in the tavern tents and enjoy a day of thrilling steeplechase racing. Race day activities include terrier races, shopping, hat contests, tailgate contests, and some of the best steeplechase racing you’ll find anywhere. You can now easily place bets on race day with terminals located

around the track. Purchase tickets online.

DIXIE RHYTHM AT THE EMMANUEL EPISCOPAL CHURCH PARISH HOUSE October 24 | 3 p.m. | emmanuelmiddleburg.org At The Parish House presents the Dixie Rhythm jazz band. They will play on the porch of the Parish House (105 E. Washington Street). For over 20 years, the Dixie Rhythm band has delighted area audiences with their exciting Dixieland Jazz performances. To reserve a seat, or in the case of questionable weather, call 540-687-6297. There’s a $10 suggested donation, but no one is turned away; refreshments are served.

HAUNTED TRAIL AT THE SALAMANDER RESORT October 27 - 30 | 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. | salamanderresort.com This family-friendly Haunted Trail takes place on the evenings of October 27 through October 30.

The .6 mile trail will feature 10-actor scenes from 7 - 9 p.m. The trail is geared towards children that are 4 through 12 years old. Children wanting to walk through the trail without the actors in the scenes can do that at 6:30 p.m. The last entry onto the trail is 8:30 pm sharp. Food and beverages will be available to purchase a la carte including hot dogs, pulled pork, s’mores kits, caramel apples, mac and cheese and veggie wraps. Admission is $14 per person. Children 3 and under are free. Register online.

HALLOWEEN PARTY AT THE SALAMANDER RESORT October 29 | 7 - 10 p.m. | salamanderresort.com Calling all goblins and ghouls! After a spooky stroll through the Haunted Trail, join us in our ballroom for a scary-good celebration! Feast on Halloween-themed dinner stations to kick off your Halloween weekend. $85 per adult, $45 per child. Excludes tax and gratuity. A cash bar will be available. Reservations required. To reserve, please call 540-326-4070.

HISTORIC ENCOUNTERS DAYS AT THE LOUDOUN HERITAGE FARM MUSEUM October 29 | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. | heritagefarmmuseum.org This series of family-friendly history days is back! Visit the Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum for hands-on activities, see historic trades in action, and meet farm animals in person. Each day includes a variety of stations to explore and is perfect for students of all ages. Registration is required to attend. Get your tickets online.

SUNDAY SKETCH WITH KIM RICHARDS: HALLOWEEN EDITION October 31 | 2 - 4 p.m. | nationalsporting.org Join artist Kim Richards for a special Halloween Sunday Sketch! This free class is open to all ages and skill levels. Supplies are provided. Drop-in or RSVP to VPeacock@NationalSporting.org. ML

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

43

T

elling the story of

Sporting Life

through books and art

John E. Ferneley Sr. (English, 1782-1860) The Hunt in Belvoir Vale (detail), 1835, oil on canvas, 55 x 140 inches National Sporting Library & Museum, Gift of Kathryn James Clark in memory of Stephen C. Clark, Jr., 2013

44

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2021

Your Plate Reimagined Take your palate on an extraordinary journey. Discover freshly cultivated flavors that will awaken your senses and feed your soul. Enjoy our fine cuisine al-fresco with endless views of the scenic countryside.

RESERVATIONS AT 855.297.7051 MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

AT

harrimansgrill.com

S A L A M A N D E R

R E S O R T

&

S PA

2021

OCTOBER 2021

•

middleburglife.com

Inn & Restaurant

YOUR NEXT FAVORITE MEMORY: Autumn at Goodstone

Don’t just live, Renew. Located in the heart of Virginia’s Hunt & Wine Country, our 265-acre estate offers your perfect fall escape. Savor the tastes of fall.

WINE & HUNT COUTNRY FINE DINING | PRIVATE COTTAGE RENTALS DESTINATION WEDDINGS | EXECUTIVE RETRWATS MIDDLEBURG VA

Goodstone.com | 540-687-3333