The Dog and Oyster Vineyard - Tasting Notes

Winery of the Hope and Glory Inn, Virginia's Northern Neck

It’s hard to drive past the entrance to The Dog & Oyster Vineyard, without knowing immediately it’s a vineyard. After meandering through the charming town of Irvington Virginia, and just when you reach the point that you think you’re heading back into the country, you see them. Really, it would be impossible not to see them. In one of the flattest areas in the state stands two 40-foot tall corkscrews silently welcoming you to enter.

The corkscrews may be the bait that lures the river loving tourists in the gate, but it will be the charm, the wine, and the oysters, that brings them back.

There are a couple of ways The Dog & Oyster Vineyards sets themselves apart from the rest. The first is how they serve their wines. It’s like you’re visiting an old friend, enjoying a glass of wine and a story. It was not only about the wine, but about who they are as a vineyard. You’ll walk away with an understanding of what makes them different, unique, and why they are the way they are. From the rescue dogs that call the vineyard home, to the curious story of how the vines manage to flourish on land not too high above the water table, you’ll leave knowing a little more than you did when you arrived.

The second is the oysters. The Dog and Oyster prides themselves on producing wines that pair well with this local delicacy. And, if you order a few from the food stand onsite, named “Slurp," neither will disappoint. The whites or the “Rosie” rose bloom when enjoyed with seafood. Yes, there are some wines made to drink alone, but here you can see how a wine can change with food, and how pairing the two together can create something even better.

If you’re not a fan of oysters, “Slurp” offers other local seafood options. They are all cooked to order, and worth returning for. I have to admit, I didn’t see anyone leave even a morsel on their plate.

The vineyard is owned by the same couple who own The Hope and Glory Inn, along with their son. If you were staying at the Inn, the vineyard is just a short bike ride away. There is plenty of outdoor seating, and even a kissing booth this summer to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Virginia is for Lovers. On the six acres under vine, Chardonel, Vidal Blanc, Chambourcin, and Merlot are grown. Visitors are welcome to grab a treat for the dogs and visit with them along the vines.

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