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From Snow to Bud Break: The Promise of a New Season in Northern Virginia Vineyards

Northern Virginia has been blanketed by more snow and colder temperatures than usual as we find ourselves in the heart of winter. Notably, early January brought significant snowfall, with areas like Leesburg receiving more than 7 inches. While the landscape rests under this frosty veil, it's heartening to remember that the vineyards will begin their annual renewal in just about six weeks.

Grapevines are dormant, appearing as mere woody twigs amidst the snow. This essential period allows vines to conserve energy and prepare for the upcoming growth cycle. As temperatures start to rise and the ground begins to thaw, the first signs of life emerge with bud break. Tiny buds swell and burst open, revealing new shoots and leaves, marking the vine's reawakening.

Following bud break, the vines enter a phase of rapid growth. Shoots lengthen, and small, self-pollinating flowers appear. These blossoms, once pollinated, develop into tiny green berries. As summer progresses, these berries undergo veraison, changing color and beginning to ripen. The grapes reach their peak ripeness by late summer to early fall, ready for harvest.

The current winter conditions, though harsh, play a crucial role in this cycle. The cold ensures that vines remain dormant, protecting them and allowing for a more synchronized and healthy bud break come spring. So, as we navigate these chilly days, take comfort in knowing that the vineyards are merely resting, gathering strength for a vibrant season ahead. In just a few weeks, we'll witness the first signs of this transformation, a testament to nature's resilience and the promise of warmer days.

The History of Willowcroft Farm Vineyards: A Legacy Rooted in Loudoun County’s Rich Past

Willowcroft Farm Vineyards, nestled on the scenic Catoctin Mountains in Loudoun County, Virginia, is more than just a winery—it’s a living piece of history. With a residence dating back to 1789, the vineyard spans 30 acres and offers breathtaking views of the Loudoun Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. This land, rich in history, has been home to many notable figures and families, shaping it into the cornerstone of Loudoun County's wine industry today.

In its early days, the property was owned by Lord Fairfax and later by James Simpson, with William Jenkins managing the farm before purchasing it in 1877. The Jenkins family played a significant role in the farm’s history, passing it down through generations. Over the decades, the property changed hands numerous times, moving through families like the Tiffanys, Pangles, Garretts, and Kohlmeiers, each leaving their mark.

One of the most compelling stories tied to the land is that of Jane Pohl, daughter of West Point graduate Colonel Hermann Pohl, who purchased the farm in 1946. Jane Pohl was an accomplished equestrian who defied expectations with her horse Fitzrada, a once temperamental cavalry horse. Jane’s success with Fitzrada, despite their rocky start, led to significant achievements in the show-jumping world, helping to open the doors for women to compete internationally in the sport.

In 1979, Lew Parker purchased the land and established Willowcroft Farm Vineyards, planting the seeds for what would become Loudoun County’s first winery. Willowcroft’s creation marked the resurgence of the region's post-Civil War spirits industry, which had fallen dormant during Prohibition. Today, Willowcroft is a testament to the land’s deep agricultural roots and the pioneering spirit of Virginia’s winemaking industry.

With each glass of wine, visitors can taste not only the flavors of Virginia but also a legacy that spans centuries, from the Jenkins family to Jane Pohl’s equestrian triumphs and finally to the establishment of Loudoun’s first winery.