Most Virginia wineries were dealt a devastating blow this past winter and spring with relentless Arctic air and ice in January that damaged vines and then the April freeze that killed off a very early bud break. Many winemakers and vineyard managers with whom I have spoken throughout this challenging growing season reported severely reduced crops due to these factors, with some varieties being a total loss for this vintage. However, vines did produce grapes, and harvest must go on. Why not make the most of it? Gray Ghost Vineyards decided to hold a Not a Harvest Harvest Party for volunteers who signed up to harvest this year. The winery usually hosts four volunteer harvest events, but only one was held this year due to overall reduction in crops this season. However, this did not stop winemaker Al Kellert and marketing manager Amy Payette from hosting an afternoon of harvest fun at the winery. I and other friends attended, and we had a blast.
The tasting room displayed every harvest T-shirt issued at their annual harvest party since it began its volunteer program in 1997. I’ve been a volunteer harvester at Gray Ghost Vineyards since 2002, and I harvested Chardonnay that year.
The afternoon was filled with games and prizes. Al Kellert delivered a heart-warming address to partiers in which family and staff were recognized. He and Amy shared a toast with all of us, and his granddaughter Andrea Payette revealed this year’s T-shirt.
The Not a Harvest Harvest Party included free wine tasting, two complimentary glasses of wine, grilled burgers, and side dishes.
After the Not A Harvest Harvest Party wound down, my friends and I decided to sneak in a tasting at Rappahannock Cellars. Although I jotted down some tasting notes, I decided not to get too geeky about it. It was an enjoyable tasting, and I ended the afternoon at Rappahannock Cellars with a glass of the 2023 Black Label Chardonnay.
This growing season was challenging, and I know winemakers look forward to a better 2027. The 2026 growing season did produce grapes, despite lower yields, so when life gives you grapes, you still must make wine. It’s critical now more than ever to support local wineries, so be sure celebrate Virginia Wine Month in October whenever possible. Perhaps plan a visit to Gray Ghost Vineyards or Rappahannock Cellars to kick off the month. Be sure to mention that Virginia Wine Time sent you.