I had been in Kennebunkport, Maine all week working with a client, and had the opportunity to leave early one Friday. I called my trustly and likewise thirsty friend Rich Srsich and we agreed to meet at Willow Spring Vineyards, as one of a few stops on my way home, the other namely being dinner somewhere with Rich as well, before the long ride home.
Located in Haverhill, Massachusetts, not farm from Lowell, MA and New Hampshire border, it was an easy stop along the way. Willow Spring Vineyards is a family-owned winery and the people, grapes, and environment that make up the land is what they call home. They also feature a wedding venue and event space, accommodating up to 99 guests, which is a popular local venue.
According to their website, "In December 2000 Jim and Cindy [Parker] first purchased the Willow Spring farm. They originally planned on having the 18th century barn at the center of the land registered as a historic property, but within two weeks of purchasing the farm received a letter from the city that the barn was condemned. Plans scuttled, the family began to disassemble the dilapidated barn, preserving the gorgeous 18th century wood for an eventual re-build. Then began the seven year-long project to clear the land, plant our first vines, and in 2007 officially become Willow Spring Vineyards, LLC"
Rich and I met Jim as we were walking in. Jim worked for the city of Haverhill for 30 plus years, retiring in 2016. Restoring the barn and tending the grapes is truly a labor of love for Jim. Walking into the barn you can find Jim working on some project or another, whether inside or out. He was funny as hell and affable as could be. The perfect greeter.
The Willow Spring Vineyards Vignoles was easily my favorite. Made from Massachusetts grapes, this wine had all the earmarks of a very good Vignoles. The wine started with powerful notes of tropical fruits, pineapple, melon, honeysuckle and a wonderful lemon-lime finish. An off-dry white with lots of flavor and a lovely zippy ending. The wine was an absolute hit. A wonderful, fun white. Very, very good!
Willow Spring Vidal Blanc was my other favorite. A lovely light-bodied dry white with wonderful notes orange blossom, peach, and apple, with a touch of citrus fruits at the end. A sophisticated sipper for sure. A very elegant, layered, and balanced white wine.
The winery also had some taps, so Rich and I availed ourselves of several tastes of that too! A great place to stop in. Beautiful surroundings, a lovely, friendly staff, and good wine and beer.
This indeed was a lovely surprise on my way home.