Jin-Ja
A healthful tonic of ginger, citrus and spice that tastes great alone or with a shot of Maker’s Mark.
Photo: J. Smith for GPTMC
Va La Vineyards, a family-owned vineyard located in Avondale, Chester County, focuses on rare varieties and unusual blends of Italian and French grapes, most of which are designed to accompany food.
You won’t find many of Va La Vineyard’s grape varieties anywhere else on the East Coast, or, for that matter, anywhere this side of the Mississippi River. The family specializes in combining rare grapes to create innovative blends.
The good news is that the family produces wine in very small batches, so the quality meets their standards. The bad news is that they produce wine in very small batches, 1,200 – 1,900 cases per year, so quantities are limited. Picky wine tasters should call ahead before visiting to see what’s available.
The winery is open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. There is a fee for tasting, but the experience includes an array of local foods, so the charge is well worth it. If you do plan on tasting, make sure to bring ID.
