West Wind Farm Vineyard & Winery

West Wind Farm is a fourth-generation homestead in Southwest Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Although we planted our grapes in 2003, our family’s roots date back nearly a century.
We welcome hikers, motorists, cyclists, motorcyclists, corporate escape artists, picnicking lovers, stressed-out lawyers, tired old hippies, Yankee tourists, and the occasional wine expert to our breezy hillside gathering place. If you’re in the area, do stop in and try our small batch, family-crafted wine.

Tasting Room Hours: Open year round. Mon – Sat, 11 – 6, Sunday 1-6. Closed major holidays.
Taste any three wines free, or pay $3 for all wines (or $5 and keep the glass)

We visited West Wind Farm Vineyard & Winery on 13 October 2010. West Wind Winery is a lot bigger and fancier than you might expect for this out-of-the-way spot in a town called Max Meadows; it reminded us of many of the upscale wineries in the major population centers around the state. Steady local traffic helps, but much of the business comes from travelers hopping off of nearby I-81 looking for a little taste of Virginia wine.

All photos from this winery

Half a dozen old barns dot the property, which has been in the owners’ family for a century. The tasting room is both modern and rustic, with sage green walls and massive pine ceiling beams. Really massive: 8 x 18 x 34 feet. What a feat, getting those things into position.

The well-stocked gift shop is filled with high-end local art and soaps and candles and food. Jason Manley, nephew of the owners and personable pourer, says he personally tries out every item before they stock it. The winery welcomes group tours (from $5/person – reserve in advance), pets, picnics and private parties, as well as weddings.

RVs can be accommodated; motorcoaches should have reservations.

Vidal Blanc, Pinot Gris, Riesling, a Cab Sauv/Chambourcin/Merlot blend, plus a single varietal Cab Sauv and Chambourcin. Peach, Blackberry and Concord are also available for those who prefer something a little sweeter.

Winery is located on US-52 between I-77 and I-81 south of Fort Chiswell and north of the New River.

From I-81 or I-77 ( and points north – Roanoke, Wytheville, Bluefield): Take exit 80 on
I-81/I-77 at Fort Chiswell. Follow Hwy. 52 (Fort Chiswell Road) south for four miles. As you pass Archer Road, begin slowing down. The winery entrance is just ahead on your left.

From I-77 (and points south – Charlotte, Winston-Salem): Take exit 24 then right on Lead Mine Road toward US 52. Make a left on 52 (Fort Chiswell Road) and travel north for approximately 5 miles. The winery entrance is on your right, about 1 mile past New River General Store.

For GPS navigation, map 2228 Fort Chiswell Rd., Max Meadows VA 24360