Located in Middleburg, VA.
Can you provide a brief overview of the history and founding of your winery?
Jennifer McCloud founded Chrysalis Vineyards in 1997 with a vision focused on restoring and celebrating the agricultural productivity of the land through responsible stewardship. When she began the vineyard, she sought the expertise of Alan Kinne, a consultant who encouraged her to grow something she loved to drink. Kinne's guidance sparked Jennifer's passion for Norton, a grape variety with a rich history in Virginia. Norton captivated her with its exquisite flavor profile and native origins in the state. Today, Chrysalis Vineyards is dedicated to growing Norton and boasts the largest single planting of Norton in the world. Over the years, the vineyard has expanded to include other European varieties such as Albariño, Petit Manseng, Petit Verdot, and Tannat, all of which thrive in the local soils and climate.
What inspired the establishment of your winery, and how has it evolved over the years?
Jennifer McCloud, our founder and proprietor, had a love for wine that drove her to pursue a new passion after selling her business, rather than retiring at 40. She chose to focus on Norton, and today, Chrysalis Vineyards holds the distinction of having the largest commercial planting of Norton in the world.
Are there any unique stories or anecdotes associated with the founding of your winery?
Chrysalis Vineyards pioneered the planting of several varietals, including Albariño and Petit Manseng. Additionally, the vineyard has played a pivotal role in supporting the industry by providing cuttings to facilitate the expansion of these varieties.
Can you highlight a few of your flagship or signature wines and what makes them stand out?
Albariño - Chrysalis has the first planting of Albariño in the United States and has focused on creating a style that pays homage to Spain's wines. This wine is medium-body, filled with tropical aromatics and stone fruit flavors. Viognier - This is a native fermented medium white wine bursting with white flower aromatics and flavors of apricots and cantaloupe. Locksley Reserve Norton - Our flagship wine showcases Norton's seriousness: full-bodied, silky smooth, long finish, dark red finish, and spice.
Are there any particular vintages that you are especially proud of, and why?
Yes! Our 2021 Locksley Reserve Norton (The flagship red wine at Chrysalis Vineyards) just received the Virginia Governor’s Cup's first gold medal for a Norton wine.
How do you approach the creation of new wine varieties or blends?
Chrysalis Vineyards established many of its styles of wines over the past 25 years. With this in mind, all of our wines are made from premium components that allow us to create consistent, premium, and delicious blends.
Are there specific grape varieties that thrive in your vineyards, and why were they chosen?
Chrysalis Vineyards has the largest planting of Norton in the world and the first American planting of a few varieties. Every variety planted was chosen specifically for our two sites. Our Albariño and Viognier were planted on a slope with a starting elevation of 1,100 feet and ending at 1,250 feet. This slope and orientation of the vineyard allow for maximum sun exposure and proper drainage. Due to this reason, these varieties fully ripen vintage to vintage with little effort.
Describe the atmosphere and experience visitors can expect at your tasting room.
Visitors to Chrysalis Vineyards can expect to be immersed in the stunning Virginia countryside, with picturesque views of the Bull Run and the Shenandoah Mountains. Guests are greeted by some of the friendliest staff around and can savor sensational wines, including Virginia's native gem, Norton, as well as other exceptional wines produced from European varietals.
What do you hope guests take away from their visit to your winery?
An appreciation for our fine wines, the comfort of our inviting surroundings, and a sense of belonging that makes you feel like you can always return.
Do you have any specific recommendations for food pairings with your wines?
Locksley Reserve pairs with a medium rare filet mignon, garlic mashed potatoes, and haricot vert. A drizzle of Bordelaise sauce is always recommended. Albariño pairs best with seafood dishes such as oysters or shrimp scampi to rainbow trout on a bed of jasmine rice pilaf and topping of grilled asparagus. Viognier is always enjoyed across a wide selection of dishes from grilled pork with apple puree to a Thanksgiving meal.
How do you help customers enhance their dining experiences with your wines?
If a guest requests a recommended food pairing for their wine(s), our team is happy to oblige.
Are there sustainability initiatives or practices your winery is involved in?
Our vineyard is cared for in a manner that allows the land to thrive alongside our beautiful vineyard. We aim to use the least intrusive chemicals in our vineyard to protect the land, wildlife, and our vineyard crew. This is because we want to be good stewards of the land so that our farm will prosper for years to come. In the cellar, we take a strict stance on additions, preferring winemaking techniques to additives but with respect to the fruit. Our thoughtful approach to the vineyard and cellar conveys the most honest expression of premium Virginia wine.
To learn more about Chrysalis Vineyards, visit their website here!
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About the VWDC
Established by the Virginia General Assembly in 2007, the Virginia Winery Distribution Company (VWDC) is a non-profit, non-stock corporation housed within the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) to provide wholesale wine distribution services for licensed Virginia wineries and farm wineries.
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