Kris F.
Yelp
My review starts with what I love about this place and my thoughts on some people who have posted negative reviews.
Greenhill is situated just outside of Middleburg. If you haven't been to this area of Virginia, you are missing out. The land has a lot of history, culture, and architecture, making it beautiful. Greenhill is a part of that. The winery is just off Route 50, and a short drive through some vines brings you to their facilities. The main building is a gorgeous farmhouse converted for a great wine-tasting experience. The main floor is for all guests, while the upper and lower levels are for various club members. I think the best seat in the house is on the veranda overlooking fields, vines, and hillside views. Greenhill has space heaters to remove the chill, even on colder days. For those who prefer to be out further, there are tons of Adirondack chairs and picnic tables to gather with friends or enjoy wine peacefully. Oh, and you can also have your own fire pit in the cooler months.
The wine at Greenhill is terrific and has been for many years because the owner brought in three excellent new employees (Winemaker, GM, and Assistant GM) to help elevate its game, and the investment has paid off. The quality of the wine has grown leaps and bounds and has become some of my favorites in the area. On top of that, the winemaker works with the owner and management to try new things, including varietals, new winemaking processes, and more. I hope they add a concrete egg to their winemaking equipment, as I love when wineries do so, as it adds an interesting complexity to the flavors.
The experience we have when visiting is second to none. All the people working behind the bar or serving drinks/food are super friendly and welcoming. The management and leadership are top-notch. I like several wineries in the area from a flavor perspective. Still, Greenhill is only one of a couple I love going to because I can relax and enjoy myself because wine is also about your experience while drinking it. Oh, it's also fun when there's something not on the tasting menu that the pourer or management bring out simply because they are excited about it and want to share it.
Lastly, we have a small well-behaved dog. Greenhill permits them outside. We don't always bring him, but sometimes it's nice, and we appreciate Greenhill for making them feel welcome. Every time we bring the guy, one of the staff always comes out with a bowl of water and a greeting.
That brings me to my issue with some of the reviews here. For the most part, the negative reviews include people not permitted to bring their children and large groups not happy because they just showed up. Please research wineries before showing up, as many in Virginia do not allow kids. I have a school-aged son, but I never take him to wineries. This excursion wouldn't be what I considered quality family time. It's more like dragging a kid to a place they wouldn't enjoy so I can have some drinks.
Most wineries post on their website that reservations are required for large groups so that they can adequately prepare for your visit and make sure you have a good time. When it comes to large parties, this is a policy with even the largest wineries in the area. They are not built to handle a large group just showing up and expecting a tasting/service on-demand. Yes, they may charge you something extra (I'm not sure if Greenhill does), but once again, your group will require additional people and time to handle on top of all the other paying customers. For me, this is about respect.
Lastly, several negative posts are from people we have all seen going to wineries. Groups that are out to get drunk and party. Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, 21st birthdays, and more. Bars are a perfect place to do this. A quiet winery in the country is not, so please don't get upset that the staff isn't there to cater to your needs. Please respect those who come there to enjoy, learn, and experience good wine with good people in a peaceful and beautiful setting.