“When we began Valley Road, we shared a love of Virginia, a belief in the potential of this region, and a desire to build a place where great wine could bring people together,” said Stan Joynes, CEO and co-founder of Valley Road Vineyards. “Ten years later, to see wines grown here recognized at the highest level in Virginia and then stand alongside—and ahead of—French wines in Paris is tremendously meaningful. This anniversary is a celebration of every person who has helped us reach this point, and an invitation to join us for what comes next.”

Valley Road Vineyards was organized in 2015 by a group of friends who brought experience from law, advertising, insurance, real estate development, teaching, event management, and writing, along with a shared enthusiasm for Virginia wine. After a year-long search, the founders selected a property at the gateway to Nelson 151, overlooking the Rockfish Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. They planted the Afton South Vineyard in spring 2016 and opened the SIP Tasting Room that August.

Over the decade that followed, Valley Road expanded from its original vineyard and tasting room into a 17-acre vineyard operation spanning three sites, with nine grape varieties under cultivation. The team rehabilitated Mountain Glen Vineyard, planted the six-acre Grayson Vineyard, renovated its barn into an event venue, and added an al fresco Pavilion and viewing decks. Across eight harvests and 12 vintages, Valley Road has harvested more than 200 tons of fruit. Since launching its Wine Club in 2018, the winery has welcomed more than 1,000 members and has hosted more than 120 weddings, along with rehearsal dinners, corporate gatherings, and private events.