Nestled in the heart of Augusta County near Staunton, Virginia, Ox-Eye Vineyards offers a taste of the Shenandoah Valley's burgeoning wine scene. Visitors can anticipate exploring a selection of wines crafted from locally grown grapes, ofte
club membership offers access to events hosted at the vineyard.
About this place
Discover Ox-Eye Vineyards, a family-owned establishment rooted in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. In 1996, John and Susan Kiers embarked on a journey to cultivate wine grapes on their 100-acre farm. After over a decade of supplying grapes to other wineries, the Kiers family established their own facility in 2010, bottling 100% Estate wines from fruit grown exclusively on their land. The vineyard's name pays homage to the common daisies that dot their property, a subtle nod to the natural beauty of their surroundings. Their daughter, Harriet, now carries the family legacy forward, working alongside her father in the winery after gaining experience through apprenticeships in France and Oregon. The vineyard itself, situated in Augusta County just outside Staunton, benefits from a unique terroir. At an average elevation of 1830 ft. with east-southeast facing slopes, the vines thrive in the Shenandoah Valley's relatively low rainfall, cool climate, and deep limestone soil. The strong diurnal temperature shift is particularly beneficial, allowing fruit to ripen fully while maintaining crucial acidity. Since the initial planting in 1999, the site has proven exceptional, with the limestone providing essential nutrients and deep soil supporting non-irrigated vines, even during droughts. Constant breezes further protect the vines by controlling diseases and preventing frost. The Kiers family's 23 acres of vines consistently yield premium wines that are highly regarded in the wine community. While the vineyard is in Augusta County, the tasting room is conveniently located in downtown Staunton, making the wine-tasting experience more accessible. This historic building, once a railroad 'scale house' and designed in 1904 by architect T.J. Collins, is nestled in Staunton's historic Wharf District. Visitors can enjoy wines in a cozy setting or on the outdoor patio. The tasting room offers $10 tastings and the option to build your own charcuterie board. You are also welcome to bring your own picnic or food from local downtown Staunton restaurants. The location is ideal for exploring nearby boutiques, coffee shops, restaurants, and cultural activities on foot, with the local farmer's market operating across the street on summer Saturday mornings. Additionally, the upstairs art gallery features works by local artists and can be rented for private events.
Established in 1996 by John and Susan Kiers, who initially sold grapes to other wineries for over a decade before building their own facility in 2010. The winery is named after the common daisy covering their land. Their daughter, Harriet, who completed apprenticeships in France and Oregon, now works alongside her father. The vineyard is 100% estate-grown, located in Augusta County at an average elevation of 1830 ft. The Kiers family chose the Shenandoah Valley for its low rainfall, cool climate, deep limestone soil, and strong diurnal temperature shifts, which help the fruit ripen while retaining acidity. The limestone provides vital nutrients, and deep soil allows for thriving vines without irrigation. Constant breezes help control diseases and combat frost. The tasting room is housed in a renovated historic building (a former 'scale house' designed in 1904 by T.J. Collins) in Staunton's Historic Wharf District, within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and cultural activities. Club members have access to events at the vineyard. The tasting room offers a build-your-own charcuterie board and allows guests to bring their own picnics or food from local restaurants. An upstairs art gallery showcases local artists and is available as an intimate rental venue.