Located in Dillwyn, Buckingham County, 45 minutes due south of Charlottesville and close to Scottsville. Eagle Zen Winery is a small winery owned by Cindy and James Reynolds, who also own Fallen Glory Vineyard. James is a former Army Colonel, and Cindy a former Military Wargame Planner. Their first vines were planted in 2015, and they sold their grapes to other wineries for several years, under the name of Fallen Glory Vineyard. The property has some 50+ acres, of which 6.5 are planted in vines.
Wine. Tier III. Wines based on interesting grape types. Current offerings include the “Peaceful Patriot” (from Rkatsiteli), Harmony (a white Traminette-Vidal Blanc blend), a Chambourcin, and a Rosé. The vineyards grows an impressive variety of grapes, including Chambourcin, Cabernet Franc, Traminette, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Vidal Blanc, Norton, Petit Manseng, Petit Verdot, and the unusual Rkatsiteli, Saperavi, and Mencia. The wines are currently produced at nearby Above Ground Winery, and a winery production operation is under construction at Eagle Zen.
Setting. Front porch on white log cabin with Adirondack chairs overlooking the lawn and vineyards. Chalet-style inside tasting room with bar. Friendly owners. Low-cost tastings.