I discovered Ox-Eye Vineyards at the Eastern Winery Exposition 2020 in Lancaster, PA. In 1996, John and Susan Kiers purchased a 100 acre farm in the Shenandoah Valley for the purpose of growing wine grapes. The Shenandoah Valley drew their interest because of its relatively low rainfall, its cool climate, and its deep limestone soil. The farm was dubbed Ox-Eye after the ox-eye daisies that at times proliferate the landscape.
The Kiers family planted their first two acres of grapevines in 1999, eventually covering 23 acres with vines. After selling grapes to area wineries for over a decade, the Kiers family built their own winery in 2010 and now bottle 100% Estate wines from fruit grown on their farm.
The Ox-Eye Vineyards Riesling 2007 was wonderful. Lots of the classic tell-tale signs of a good Riesling. Lot's of bright green Granny Smith apples. Tropical notes. And lovely hints of lavender, and notes of honeysuckle. Light, bright, and lovely. Pretty, pretty wine.
Great job to the Kiers family and their staff.