Marty Gordon
A new winery has opened in the New River Valley.
White Dog Winery is located at 1911 Walnut Spring Rd., Blacksburg. The process has taken five years of grape growing with the official opening earlier this year.
Lori Robertson and Clay Dowdy own the 3.5 acres of grapes. The first planting took place in 2021. The couple previously operated a similar winery in Giles County.
“Wine is such a local expression of terroir, community and creativity. The response we have received has been very positive. It has become a gathering place for neighbors, friends, family and colleagues. We have regulars that come after church, and some stopping by on their way to grocery shopping or a kids soccer game,” Robertson said.
White Dog grows Cab Franc, Vidal Blanc, Chambourcin, Gamay Noir, Norton and Gruner Veltliner. In addition, they lease a vineyard in Draper, which grows Chardoney, Pinot Gris, Cab Franc and Vidal.
Visitors can purchase a flight of four wins for $13. An array of events ranges from art to yoga.
“I want to create more community events and wine education,” Robertson said.
This includes plans for interesting workshops on things other than wine. This coming weekend, one of those is on wreath making. Music will be featured on both Saturday and Sundays. The winery is open Friday- Sunday, 1- 6 p.m.
