grapestompers
Thistle Meadow Winery OpensLaurel Springs - Thistle Meadow Winery officially opened for business here the first week of May 2003. Named for the wild purple flower with prickly stems that grows in the adjoining meadow, this mountaintop winery offers wine made from grapes grown around the world. "We're only a couple miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway", stated winery president Tom Burgiss, "so we are starting to see a lot of tourist traffic." And how. If early numbers are indicative of a pattern, the vintners at the winery appear to have their work cut out for them. Due to this popularity, TMW plans on staying open year around, but will limit the hours of the winery somewhat during the cold winter months. Thistle Meadow Winery produces several types of wine, from reds to whites, and sweet to dry. "We can pretty much satisfy any wine lover who walks in here," explained Burgiss. "It's rare if someone doesn't buy at least one bottle of wine." Tours of the winery and explanations of the winemaking process are also available, in addition to wine tastings. Burgiss even offers a week-long winemaking getaway for budding vintners, in conjunction with Burgiss Farm Bed and Breakfast, which is located next door. "We plan on making about 2500 gallons of wine the first year," stated Burgiss, "some of it is ready now, while other wines will come off soon." Early releases for the winery include Topia Red (Valpolicella), Bergamais (Beaujolais), Chenin Blanc, Peden White (Peach Chardonnay), and Vieux Chateau du Roi.
|