Magnolia Vineyards
Located in Amissville, Rappahannock County, about 3 miles south of Route 211. Glenn and Tina Marchione began planting here in 2008, looking to relaunch their family Italian wine traditions in Virginia. The winery is still in its early expansion phase, with five wines available and a small tasting room.
Wine. Tier III. A limited range at the moment but expanding. Whites include a Viognier and a Black Walnut White, reds a Cabernet Franc and the Bordeaux-style Hawkins Run Red, plus a dessert wine.
Setting. Not quite as polished as more established wineries, or as Magnolia will eventually be. Nice surroundings, very relaxed atmosphere. And very dog friendly as the Marchione’s dog will let you know.
Stories. Natural Virginia: Volcanoes. Yes, volcanoes… The 1,200 foot mountain in Amissville is Battle Mountain. Well before the Civil War came its way, Battle Mountain was a volcano. About 700 million years ago, it had what is believed to have been a “lateral explosive eruption event centered on the eastern slope.” You’re at little risk of one here now, so no need to worry. Battle Mountain is among the oldest visibly intact extinct volcanoes in Virginia. While it’s the only volcano in Rappahannock County, it was one of many in the state. The highest spot in Virginia, Mount Rogers, is formed from lava that erupted 750 million years ago, when the supercontinent of Rodinia was starting to break up. Along Skyline Drive and in Shenandoah National Park you’ll also see plenty of Catoctin Greenstone, of volcanic origin and another indicator of a volcanic past in Virginia. Not interesting enough? How about an active volcano? Virginia’s got one! You mean you didn’t know? Mole Hill, near Harrisonburg. Mole Hill is the eroded remnant of a volcano last active about 47 million years ago, making it one of the youngest volcanos on the east coast of North America. It’s also considered to be the last active volcano along the Eastern seaboard. In Virginia, some like it hot!