Delaplane, well known for its historic role in the Civil War, is now famous for a much more peaceful pursuit.

On July 19th, 1861, Stonewall Jackson marched his troops from Winchester, through the Ashby Gap to Piedmont Station, now known as Delaplane. They crowded into freight and cattle cars and traveled to the First Battle of Manassas, opening a new era in military transport.

Where once Civil War troops spent their nights waiting for orders, writing letters, tending horses and being baptized in the waters of the Crooked Run and Goose Creek, now blossom well-tended vineyards that produce some of the finest wines in the country. At present, Virginia is ranked 5th in the nation in wine production.

In 1996, when my husband Ken and I first came upon Delaplane, it was the sleepiest of hamlets. Now signs along highways and byways boast of the attractions located in and around the place we chose to call home.

THREE FOX VINEYARDS

Just past the railroad tracks on Route 17 is Three Fox Vineyards. Owners Holli and John Todhunter welcome guests with open arms and offer ambiance and good cheer along with their wines. Visitors will often find additional camaraderie at casual or festive events. Just in the last months there have been kite flying competitions, a Blessing of the Harvest, a 5K run, the Feast of San Gennaro, the celebration of Julia Child's birthday, and yes, the Feast of St. Bernard…just bring your own St. Bernard as all dogs are welcomed.

There is plenty of meadow space for a "Bring Your Own Picnic" and a stroll along the Crooked Run, a walk along woodland trails or a relaxing moment in a hammock.

Within just a few miles, on sunny hilltops surrounding Delaplane, are numerous additional wineries to visit.

VINTAGE RIDGE VINEYARD features wine and food pairings. Owners Vicki and Bill Edmands who started from scratch, create a delightful atmosphere of refinement and good taste. Spacious indoor and outdoor settings are comfortable and inviting. The staff is friendly and well informed about the wine selection. Bill muses that creating the vineyard, although very hard work, has been a "labor of love."

MIRACLE VALLEY VINEYARD is tucked away off Rt. 55 in a quiet and picturesque setting on Double J Lane. In a peaceful tasting room Kathy, a charming woman, will graciously explain the nine wines that are available to taste.

ASPEN DALE WINERY AT THE BARN, aptly named for its warm, rustic setting, has been lauded for its enjoyable wine. Homey and furnished with antiques and curios from times past, you will have your choice of either a rocking chair or an easy chair for your relaxing visit on a lazy afternoon. Availability of numerous board games and background music by a guitarist add to the appeal of the countryside environment.

BARREL OAK WINERY, locally known as BOW WOW, welcomes man and dog alike. A large facility with extensive outdoor areas, it has a cozy loft in which the main floor resembles a busy emporium. Merchandise of every imaginable kind is for sale, competing for space with the wine tasting areas. The larger-than-life figure of owner Brian Roeder enthusiastically welcomes every new and repeat visitor.

DELAPLANE CELLARS, a relative new comer, has a great deck from which you may enjoy a panoramic view while savoring a glass of wine. A live band adds charm inside the tasting room and a small selection of regional art is for sale.

NAKED MOUNTAIN, one of the original vineyards, has a long and acclaimed track record as a special and fun getaway. Located on Rt. 688 it makes effective use of its name with a selection of goods such as caps, aprons, t-shirts, etc. declaring "Drink Naked!"

RDV VINEYARDS has already created some truly exceptional wines and is open for tastings on a reservation basis only.

For more information, please contact The Virginia Wine Board at virginiawine.org, or, better still, hop in your car and head for Delaplane. We did…and never left.