Cowfeathers Farm to Foxcroft Farm: Winery Wednesday- Cross Keys Vineyards

October 6 was an overcast autumn day for a drive. And, we were off to Waynesboro Va. This is a town on the other side of the mountains in the Shenandoah Valley. I had purchased a cast iron 1930's sink off Facebook Marketplace that was in the basement of an old house in town. So, Huz and I took the opportunity to climb into the truck and drive over Afton Mountain. It being Winery Wednesday, I asked my sister for recommendations on that side of the range, and she suggested we try Cross Keys Vineyards.

There aren't as many wineries on the other side of the Blue Ridge, and Cross Keys is out on its own a bit, near Grottoes and Weyers Cave, an area of caverns and beauty. We chose backroads for our drive to the winery, and it was a lovely drive full of picturesque farms, barns and homes. Wisely, Cross Keys has a full service restaurant on site, so the drive can end with a meal and wine too!

We were hungry upon arrival, so went into the restaurant first. It has white tablecloths, but is not fancy, the indoor space being mostly without character. Unfortunately, they did not take advantage of the beautiful mountain views from the restaurant, which would have been all the character needed.

I am always prepared to not eat at a restaurant, as many times there isn't anything I can eat on a menu. But I was pleased to find something! The server was kind enough check with the chef, and I was able to order Shrimp and Grits. It was interesting, in that the grits were more like a steel cut oatmeal, not smooth but a bit fibrous. The shrimp were big and nicely done. Although the portion was tidy, and I was still a bit hungry when I was finished. I had a glass of Chardonnay with my meal.

Huz was not hungry when he was done, as he had a great, thick reuben with a pile of fries that all looked amazing. Huz had a glass of Pinot Noir with his meal.

After our lunch we strolled over to the Tasting Room for a real wine tasting, not a flight. We prefer a real tasting, as the server is usually very knowledgable about the wines, and often you taste a greater variety. Indeed, we tasted 12 wines, and were pleased with most.

My favorite was the 2019 Viognier. It was so unique, and will pair nicely with Indian take away!

Huz gave 4**** to the 2018 Meritage, 2018 Touriga, 2019 Joy Red and the 2016 Tavern, a dessert port.

As well as purchasing several bottles, we joined the wine club, as the trip over the mountain will be beautiful in many seasons and encourage trips farther afield.