Capstone Vineyards Linden Virginia

A Legacy of Family, Wine, and Virginia Soil

Nestled in the picturesque foothills of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, Capstone Vineyards stands as a testament to the harmony between family tradition, a love for the land, and the art of winemaking. This story is not just about the wine produced from the fertile Virginia soil; it’s about the people behind it—the Payne family—whose dedication, passion, and commitment have turned a dream into reality. The vineyard's rich history, intertwined with the journey of its owners, winemakers, and their families, makes Capstone Vineyards a unique gem in the world of viticulture.

The Beginning: A Dream Takes Root

The story of Capstone Vineyards began with a shared vision between Matt and Theresa Payne. Both raised with a deep appreciation for agriculture and the outdoors, the Paynes were drawn to the idea of creating something lasting from the land. For Matt, who spent his childhood summers on his grandparents' farm in the Shenandoah Valley, the connection to the land was deeply personal. Theresa, with her background in gardening and horticulture, shared Matt's enthusiasm for cultivating the land. Together, they nurtured the idea of starting a vineyard, which would become both a family legacy and a business that could grow with their children.

In 2003, after years of planning and saving, Matt and Theresa purchased a property in the heart of Virginia wine country. The land, with its rolling hills and fertile soil, was perfect for grape cultivation. However, it was not just the suitability of the land that drew them to it; it was the community, the history, and the promise of being part of Virginia's burgeoning wine industry. The Paynes knew that starting a vineyard would require hard work, patience, and a deep understanding of viticulture, but they were ready for the challenge.

Building the Vineyard: A Family Affair

The early years of Capstone Vineyards were a time of learning, experimentation, and hard work. The Paynes, with the help of their three children, set out to transform their piece of Virginia countryside into a thriving vineyard. Each family member played a role in this transformation. Matt, with his background in engineering, meticulously planned the layout of the vineyard, ensuring that every vine was planted in the optimal location for sunlight and drainage. Theresa, with her horticultural expertise, focused on the health of the vines, carefully selecting grape varieties that would thrive in Virginia's unique climate.

Their children, even at a young age, were involved in the vineyard’s day-to-day operations. Whether it was helping with planting, tending to the vines, or learning the art of winemaking, the Payne children grew up with a deep respect for the land and the family business. This hands-on approach not only strengthened their bond as a family but also instilled in them a sense of responsibility and pride in what they were creating together.

As the vineyard matured, so did the Paynes' expertise in winemaking. They sought out guidance from local viticulturists and winemakers, attended workshops, and learned from their own experiences. The Virginia climate, with its hot summers and cool autumns, posed unique challenges, but the Paynes were determined to produce high-quality grapes that would yield exceptional wines. 

The Birth of Capstone Wines

By 2008, Capstone Vineyards was ready to produce its first vintage. The Payne family, after years of preparation, finally saw the fruits of their labor come to life. The first wines—produced in small quantities—were a reflection of the family's commitment to quality and tradition. These early vintages received positive feedback from friends, family, and local wine enthusiasts, encouraging the Paynes to expand their production.

Capstone Vineyards soon became known for its distinct, well-crafted wines that embodied the character of the Virginia terroir. The vineyard's portfolio grew to include a range of varietals, from the robust Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot to the delicate Chardonnay and Viognier. Each wine, carefully crafted by Matt and Theresa, reflected the family's dedication to excellence and deep connection to the land.

A New Chapter: The Purchase by Theo Smith and Partners

In December 2022, nearly two decades after its founding, Capstone Vineyards entered a new chapter in its history. Matt and Theresa Payne, looking to ensure the long-term sustainability of the vineyard and to embark on new personal ventures, made the difficult decision to sell Capstone Vineyards. It was important to them that the vineyard remain in the hands of someone who would honor their legacy and continue their vision of producing high-quality wines rooted in family and tradition.

The new owners—Theo Smith and his partners, Douglas McCarthy and Matthew Akers—share this vision, bringing with them a wealth of experience and a deep passion for wine. For Theo, the acquisition of Capstone Vineyards represents the culmination of a journey that began in 2006 when he first entered the grape-growing industry while completing his biochemistry degree at Franciscan University in Ohio. Recognizing the importance of understanding every aspect of viticulture and winemaking, Theo went on to earn a degree in Viticulture and Oenology from Brock University. His experience spans harvests in France, Canada, and the United States, but it was Virginia that ultimately captured his heart, leading him to settle in the region in 2011.

Theo, along with his wife and two close friends, purchased Capstone Vineyards as the crowning achievement of his career—a "capstone" that symbolizes his dedication to the craft of winemaking. For Theo, this vineyard, nestled in Linden, Virginia, near the famous Linden Vineyards of Jim Law, is not just a business venture but a personal mission to perfect his craft on one of Virginia’s most beautiful and fertile mountainsides.

The Partners: A Collaborative Vision

Theo is joined by Douglas McCarthy and Matthew Akers, both of whom are not only seasoned attorneys but also deeply rooted in Virginia’s agricultural and winemaking communities. Like Theo, they have a passion for the land and a commitment to continuing the tradition of excellence that Capstone Vineyards is known for. 

Douglas and Matthew, both lifelong residents of Virginia, bring to the vineyard their extensive experience as wine enthusiasts and family farmers. Their legal backgrounds give them the business acumen needed to navigate the complexities of running a vineyard, while their agricultural expertise ensures that Capstone remains grounded in the principles of sustainable farming. Together, they form a dynamic team with Theo, each contributing unique strengths that complement the others, making them well-equipped to steer Capstone Vineyards into its next phase.

The Role of Family in the Vineyard’s Success

As Capstone Vineyards grew, so did the Payne family’s involvement in every aspect of the business. Their children, now older, took on more significant roles in the vineyard and winery. Each brought their own unique skills and perspectives, contributing to the vineyard's success. Whether it was marketing, sales, or winemaking, the Payne children were integral to Capstone's operations.

The Paynes’ commitment to maintaining a family-run business has been a cornerstone of Capstone Vineyards' philosophy. They believe that their close-knit family structure allows them to operate with a level of care and attention that is often lost in larger, more commercial wineries. This personal touch is evident in every bottle of Capstone wine, which carries not just the flavors of Virginia's terroir but also the essence of the Payne family's values.

Looking to the Future: A Legacy in the Making

Today, Capstone Vineyards stands as a thriving, family-run business that continues to produce exceptional wines, drawing visitors from near and far. The vineyard has become a beloved destination for wine lovers, who come to enjoy not just the wines, but also the warm, welcoming atmosphere created by the Payne family.

Looking ahead, Theo Smith and his partners are committed to preserving the vineyard's legacy for future generations. They plan to continue expanding their wine offerings while maintaining their focus on quality and sustainability. The vineyard's success has allowed the team to invest in new technologies and practices that will ensure the health and productivity of their vines for years to come.

For Theo, Douglas, and Matthew, Capstone Vineyards is more than just a business; it’s a way of life. Their journey, from acquiring the vineyard to continuing the production of award-winning wines, is a story of perseverance, passion, and the enduring power of family and friendship. As they look to the future, this team is excited to see how the next generation will carry on the legacy of Capstone Vineyards, continuing to produce wines that celebrate the beauty and bounty of Virginia.