Welcome to Ankida Ridge Vineyards

Serendipity. We knew the meaning of the word, but we never thought we would live a story spun by its beautiful, magical web, weaving us into this pastoral place and unexpected life in the mountains of Virginia, crafting a fine Pinot Noir wine—an impossible feat in hot, humid Virginia. How in Bacchus’ name did this all happen?

We purchased this untamed mountain land with the intention of one day turning it into a retirement retreat after leaving our veterinary practice in Virginia Beach, where Dennis was a veterinarian and Christine, a former nurse, was the practice manager. We never anticipated we’d be growing grapes and making wine! When a small spot of land was accidentally cleared on our forested mountain, we faced a decision on what to do with it. After much discussion within the family, conversations with future wine industry colleagues, bringing in renowned ampelographer and vineyard consultant, Lucie Morton, and paying attention to many subtle nudges, we decided to undertake the challenge and plant a small vineyard on this cooler, rocky, steep-sloped site. But, what to plant?

With Lucie’s guidance, we decided on pinot noir, the Burgundian grape that does well in cooler climates and well-drained soils. We were met with dire warnings from fellow growers who had planted pinot noir in the past. "Pinot Noir does not grow in Virginia," they said, "not well enough to craft a fine wine, at least." Back then, the Virginia wine industry had not fully recognized the importance of matching grape variety to place. Ankida Ridge has since played a role in elevating this discussion. Our first vintage, the 2010 Pinot Noir was received with high accolades, much to our delight! The rest is history.

This story is best shared over bottles of wine, around a fire, on the beach, or relaxing on a mountaintop under the stars. Here we are, living a vineyard life and running another family business—this time with our son Nathan as winemaker—high in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Amherst County, Virginia. From the beginning, we affirmed that family is most important. Let the business fall into place behind the love, respect, and importance of family. We embrace that to this day.

Cheers to serendipity, paying attention, perseverance, and family! We welcome all of you to visit and become a member of our extended family… our Ankida Ridge Wine Family.

Christine, Dennis and Nathan Vrooman