West Virginia Executive Winter 2018 | Page 117

G one are the days when wine lovers had to travel to California for a unique winery experience. From the far corner of the Eastern Panhandle to the southern coal fields, West Virginians have perfected the art of wine and mead making, adding a unique and timeless element to the state’s tourism experience. With a variety of flavors to choose from, the Mountain State’s wineries offer something for everyone. Batton Hollow Winery www.battonhollowwinery.com Jim Kelley learned the art of making wine from his neighbors while living in Italy during his time in the U.S. Air Force. In 2014, he and his wife, Toni, opened the doors of Batton Hollow Winery in Lost Creek, WV. In addition to its table and sweet wines, it has found a niche in creating seasonal wines: Primavera in the spring, Summer Breeze in the summer, Autumn Glory in the fall and Winter White in the winter. Guests will enjoy the view of the rolling hills while sipping a chardonnay or pinot noir on the outdoor patio. Visit Batton Hollow Friday-Saturday, 12-6 p.m. or by appointment, where tours of the winery and a free sampling in the tasting room are available. Chestnut Ridge Winery www.chestnutridgewinery.com Photo by Chestnut Ridge Winery. winery is located at the trailhead of Ben’s Run Trail, and it is described as having something for everyone. Chestnut Ridge Winery produces traditional European dry and semi- dry wines, as well as semi-sweet wines with hints of fruit flavors like peach, blackberry and pomegranate. Chestnut Ridge has its own tasting and events room and is the perfect spot for private and public events. The winery, which is open Wednesday- Sunday, also frequently holds painting and cooking classes. Daniel Vineyards www.danielvineyards.com Photo by Daniel Vineyards. Forks of Cheat Winery www.wvwines.com Daniel Vineyards is a scenic property boasting a variety of panoramic views. Both its warm and welcoming indoor tasting room and picturesque outdoor gazebo offer an ideal atmosphere for individual and group tastings, and right outside is a large, open deck constructed around large trees that truly gives this winery a West Virginia feel. Daniel Vineyards strives to