Thistle Gate Vineyard

It was a sultry, humid, rainy Saturday and the natives were getting restless. Suffering from cabin fever, my hubby and a couple of friends and I decided to find an outdoor activity to remedy our listlessness. Being pluviophiles, we didn't mind the light, summer rain. But what to do? Enter wineries!! We headed west toward Charlottesville, and first stopped in Palmyra where the winery there was only open for curbside pick up. My friends loaded the pickup with cases of wine but we were still in search of a charcuterie board and an open vineyard! Yelp to the rescue!We called the winery Yelp advised us was only about 10 miles away in Scottsville. It was open! Yes, they had charcuterie!! What a stupendous find! We approached the thistle blue painted sign and charming gate welcoming us to Thistle Gate Vineyard! Through the misty rain, the white barn-like cottage with the serene blue roof looked something from a Nicholas Sparks movie. Utterly quaint and beautiful! The wide porch was open for outdoor seating, wrought iron tables and chairs sprawled along the long planked flooring. Restrooms were located around the side so one didn't have to enter the winery. We were greeted by the owner who handed us a wine menu and their "flight sheet". The four of us chose our wine flights and each got a charcuterie box! Ahhh, this is the life!While we awaited our libations and sustenance, we spied an inviting gazebo near the vineyards. Our host said we were welcome to it! The grounds were lovely, albeit a bit soggy, a barrel fountain babbled along with the now drizzling rain, a bottle tree rooster glistened in the garden, cute slate signs were placed hither and thither around the shrubbery, it was all so idyllic. Our flights were served in pieces of wood made from wine barrels. Plastic cups were used due to Covid, but that didn't diminish the flavors of the fruit of the vine. I chose three reds and a blush. The Cabernet France was full-bodied with a dry finish. The Meritage (a portmanteau of Merit & Heritage) was delicate blend of varietals with fruity notes, the Thistle Red was a well-balanced blend of Merlot & Petit Verdot with a mild berry flavor and a rich burgundy color, and my favorite was the Thistle Blush, a crisp rosé made with Chambourcin grapes, easily my top rated grape! The blush was perfect for this overcast summer day, sipping the day way! I also tasted the St. George's Red Reserve which was also made with Chambourcin grapes and whispered cherry notes. Also my friend shared with me her Chardonnay which was a tad dry to my taste, but if you like white wine, I'm sure you'll like this one! What we took home??? The Thistle Red, couple bottles of Meritage, St. George and of course, several bottles of Thistle Blush! We enjoyed all these fine wines while in the gazebo surrounded by rows and rows of vineyards. What made the afternoon even better was the gorgeously presented charcuterie box! Two types of crackers served with salami, Brie, Swiss, and Gouda along with huge green grapes, dried apricots and salted almond Ghirardelli dark chocolates. I'm not exaggerating when I say this was the perfect complement to our wine tasting! A heavenly day spent in this dreamy winery, the only one in Fluvanna county, certainly cured our doldrums!! We are certainly returning to this hidden gem!! One sign posted says "We're so glad you're here", so are we Thistle Gate Vineyard, so are we!

They are only open six hours a week but it became clear that Thistle Gate does so many things well in those hours. Good wine, delicious sangria flights and friendly staff. They have clearly created a sense of community among their regulars and we saw many people come to have their growlers refilled with sangria! The outdoor seating on the porch was perfection to enjoy a cool fall day. I look forward to returning!

I'd been wanting to get by Thistle Gate for a while now, but they do have limited hours. It was so worth the wait! The service was beyond excellent, the grounds are gorgeous, the wine is great and their charcuterie board is worth every penny. We split a tasting and I loved every wine we tried. Their sparkling is so good, just the right amount refreshing but dry. Their merlot has the smoothest finish I've personally experienced. I could've spent hours on their porch and we will be back!

Cozy, but a hike from where I live in Alexandria. They started growing grapes in 2007 but the tasting room opened later. 6 acres of grapes, plus they outsource from elsewhere in Virginia. 1000 cases/year, so DEFINITLY on the smaller side. I was warmly greeted when I walked in, and was given the run-down on their offerings.Thistle specializes in Chambourcin, which they trade for other grapes that they need. Chambourcin is also well represented in their wines, but they serve plenty of other wines as well. But as I'm not a fan of Chambourcin or other hybrids, the tastings were hit-or-miss.What I tried:15 Chardonnay: Strong vanilla notes from the American oak barrel they used.15 "Scott's Landing": A Seyval-heavy white blend.16 Thistle White (Vidal Blanc): Described as off dry but it seemed to be on the dryer side.15 Merlot: Full bodied, strong blackberry notes up front.16 St George: Chambourcin with some Cab Franc; smooth but not fruity.14 Tartan Port-style: Great nose; wonderful example of a port-style.

The best winery in Fluvana county ! Excellent wine. The owners are down to earth and share a passion for great wine ! Always starting a new business is a challenge! They have made this challenge into something special!

This is one of the greatest hidden gems that Scottsville has to offer. Succulent wine, beautiful views, and the most personable owners. Keep an eye out for local bands visiting and local artisans making an appearance. Perfect little patio for a casual gathering with friends or a romantic date.

I love the wines, the location - and the wonderful hospitality of owners George and Leslie (and everyone who works there). You won't be sorry if you stop by - and bring your dogs! They are most welcome!

Such a wonderful place! Leslie and George are amazing. Kim poured for us and was awesome! All around fabulous vineyard! Highly recommend!

Thistle Gate was an amazing find! We found a flier at Blenheim and headed out to Thistle Gate. The winery is quaint and small. There is an open lawn for picnics and family to play. The owners came down to talk to us.The sangria is PHENOMENAL. Sangria Saturdays is a must. The sangria is a house recipe, and it will blow your mind away.

Was invited by a friend to meet him and family members at this winery. After a beautiful drive on rural roads from our home in Richmond, we missed them by 5 minutes. Fortunately, this is a beautiful place with top notch people and delicious wine. We will return.