Jones von Drehle Vineyard and Winery is a family-owned and operated vineyard and winery located in Thurmond. Diana and Chuck Jones and Ronnie and Raymond von Drehle are co-owners. They began their journey to produce quality wines in 2007. It all started with purchasing the perfect property. A tremendous amount of research went into selecting the perfect property. The property had to be at an elevation between 1500-1600 feet, facing the south with rocky soil and sloping hills. This was found in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountain. Jones von Drehle is an estate winery producing old-world style wines from grapes they grow from their 30 acres of vines. Winemaking begins in the vineyard so great importance was taken in regard to location. They don’t try to duplicate wines from other regions. They celebrate the unique terroir of the Blue Ridge area and produce wines that reflect its soil and sky. Patience, skill, and passion are the foundations of Jones von Drehle wines. It isn’t uncommon for years to pass before they will release their reds.
It was a rainy Friday afternoon when we stopped by to visit, but that didn’t dampen our experience. The tasting room was lively with various groups enjoying a tasting. Several people were sitting at tables inside sharing a bottle of wine. We decided to sit under the patio and enjoy the wine and the rain.
Walking onto the property you are greeted with elegance and attention to detail. The outdoor space has gorgeous views of the vineyard, concert stage, and mountains. The tasting room is spacious with a separate bar tasting area. The tasting menu changes regularly and includes 6 wines for $20. We each selected a tasting. Tastings are led by a knowledgeable staff member. We had a treat in which Diana led our tastings. Detailed notes complement your tasting that includes aroma, palate, and food pairings for each wine. I love paper-tasting notes I can write and discuss with the host. With Diana, we had a conversation about wine. Jones von Drehle supplies the most comprehensive tasting notes. They also offer other wines from their cellar. Viognier and Petit Manseng are 2 of my favorite white wines. Charles enjoyed the Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. Reservations are highly suggested in order to provide a personal experience. Walk-ins are welcomed depending on available seating. Tastings are done at the bar area and you are welcome to purchase bottles and enjoy the spacious outdoor patio. Children are welcome outside sitting with their parents. This isn’t a park. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet relaxed.
As stated above the tasting menu and wine releases are ongoing. Jones von Drehle is releasing its sparkling wine on December 11. It is an estate produced from a Chardonnay Entav-Inra French Burgundy clone 95. It is a dry sparkling wine produced by Methode Champenoise, a traditional French method. It will be perfect for your holiday celebrations.
Outside beverages are not allowed. Light snacks are permitted, but no full-scale picnics. They offer a selection of North Carolina cheeses and crackers in the tasting room. Jones von Drehle has created a concert venue that has no bad views of the stage. Instead of permanent seating, they incorporated the landscape into their design. It is nothing short of amazing. During the warmer months, Friday night concerts are scheduled. The property also includes Chloe Hall. They offer wine and food pairing events by North Carolina acclaimed chefs. Just last month Chef Serge Falcoz-Vigne presented his food artistry. Each chef creates a multi-course meal and the Jones von Drehle staff pair with their wines. We haven’t participated in this culinary delight yet, but it is on our bucket list.
One thing about North Carolina wines is that it’s hard to get restaurants and wine shops to carry them. I am not sure why because they have some award-winning wines. If you are in a restaurant/wine shop if you don’t see your favorite ask for it. The more we ask the better the chance they will offer wines made locally in North Carolina. Jones von Drehle wines are self-distributed and can be found in restaurants and select wine stores across the state of North Carolina. We recently spent a day in Blowing Rock and found their wine in a retail setting.
Check out their website for the most up-to-date event details.