October 2025

from throughout | | 6 kitchen | cottage lighted stream, acres

SPRING GLADE

SALEM HILL

MIddLEBuRG, VIRGINIA

$9,000,000

Helen MacMahon 540.454.1930

river frontage.

French Country home, with renovations in 1999 & 2017 | 4 BR, 5 full & 2 half BA, 5 FP, hardwood floors, flagstone terrace | Beautiful drive to hilltop stetting overlooking pond, lake & mountains | Im provements include pool, 2-car garage, 2 BR guest house & apartment | Lovely boxwood gardens | Kitchen allowance to be provided | 79.89 acres Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905 helen MacMahon 540.454.1930

MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA

MARSHALL, VIRGINIA

Well protected Fauquier location | 6 bedrooms | 4 full and 2 half baths | 3 fireplaces | Great views | Pool with large flagstone terrace | Large county kitchen | 4-car detached garage with apartment/ office | 9-stall barn | Covered arena | Outdoor ring | 4 stall shed row barn | 51 fenced acres

$3,690,000

203 acres in River frontage 4 full & 3 1/2 Gunnite pool and private | 5 stall Jim paddocks, pasture | Old d

A remarkable property located within a private enclave just minutes from town | Stone and stucco manor house with main level master suite | 7 additional BR | 5 stone FP

RECTORTOWN, VIRGINIA

STREET

ADVERTISING SALES

Jamie Null | jamie@middleburglife.com

Jennifer Richards | jennifer@middleburglife.com

Andrea Ryder | andrea@middleburglife.com

ACCOUNTS ADMINISTRATOR

Joanne Maisano

DESIGNER

Elisa Hernandez

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Nicky Marshok

ON THE COVER

PUBLISHER: Greenhill Media, LLC

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Kaitlin Hill | kaitlin@middleburglife.com

COPY EDITOR & DIGITAL ASSISTANT

Susan Stark

Macy Schilling of the Loudoun Cider House and author Bhavna Bhatia Roszel stopped to celebrate Virginia Wine Month with Lexi Leach and Remy, who graciously invited Middleburg Life to their Purcellville home for our cover shoot. For Schilling’s story turn to page 10, and read our review of Roszel’s book on page 24. Photo by Callie Broaddus.

ON THIS PAGE

With the season underway, Middleburg Life photographer Joanne Maisano can be found in

the field capturing the action with the Blue Ridge Hunt, Middleburg Hunt, Orange County Hounds, Piedmont Fox Hounds, and Snickersville Hounds. For more of her photography, turn to page 38.

ADVERTISE IN MIDDLEBURG LIFE

Greenhill Media, LLC

P.O. Box 328 | Middleburg, VA 20118-0328

540.687.5950 | info@middleburglife.com

All editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. All unsolicited manuscripts and photos must be accompanied by return postage; the publisher assumes no responsibility. Middleburg Life reserves the right to reject any advertising. Distributed in Aldie, Alexandria, Boyce, Centreville, Delaplane, Front Royal, Great Falls, Haymarket, Leesburg, Manassas, Marshall, Middleburg, Millwood, Paris, The Plains, Purcellville, Rectortown, Tysons, Upperville, Vint Hill, Warrenton, Washington, D.C., and Winchester.

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CONTRIBUTORS

Shannon Ayres is a Reston-based freelance photographer. His work has appeared in Arlington, Chesapeake Life, Northern Virginia, Virginia Business, and USA Today magazines. He has an MFA in fine art photography from San Francisco’s Academy of Art University. His editorial work can be seen at sdayres.com

Callie Broaddus is a Warrenton native and graduate of the University of Virginia. After seven years as a book designer at National Geographic Kids, Callie founded the nonprofit, Reserva: The Youth Land Trust, in 2019. Callie’s land preservation projects and focus on youth empowerment are aided by her talent as a professional photographer. In her spare time, Callie enjoys Earl Grey tea, “Harry Potter” trivia, and dreaming of getting back into the jumper ring.

Caroline Gray is a D.C.-based conservation and freelance photographer. A Virginia native and MBA graduate from the University of Virginia, her work blends a love for exploration, nature, and horses with her fashion background. When not behind the camera, Caroline enjoys hiking with her Labrador, Captain, visiting her retired horse, Cleverly, and exploring new restaurants in Washington, D.C.

Diane Helentjaris chose Loudoun as her “forever home” in 1990. A former clinical physician and public health administrator, she has returned to her humanities roots. Diane’s latest book, “I Ain’t Afraid — The World of Lulu Bell Parr, Wild West Cowgirl,” is a rollicking biography. Her novel “The Indenture of Ivy O’Neill” won the 2024 Maryland Writers’ Association novel competition in the historical/romance category.

Sherri Holdridge is a freelance photographer based in the D.C. area. An avid equestrian, she finds herself drawn and connected to the world of equine photography. Though she spends a lot of time with the horses, her portfolio also reflects her love of travel, nature, and portraiture. Sherri’s photography has been published in various magazines and exhibited in galleries around the world. Her work reflects both her passion and commitment to storytelling through the camera lens. More of her work can be found at sherriholdridgephotography.com.

Bill Kent’s journalism has appeared in more than 40 national and regional publications including The Washington Post, Art & Antiques, Philadelphia Magazine, Baltimore Magazine, New Jersey Monthly, and The Hunt. A former correspondent for The New York Times, he taught writing and journalism at the University of Pennsylvania, Rutgers, and Temple universities, and is the author of seven novels, a Fodor’s Guide, and a history of Atlantic City. When not writing, he enjoys walking his westies on Washington Street.

Gracie Savage is a local photographer who grew up in the village of Aldie and has been photographing local weddings, portraits, and events since 2016. Her passion began when she received her first camera in middle school and she continued to study the craft in high school and in college. She was a photographer at Georgetown University for over three years and joined Middleburg Life as a contributor in the spring of 2022.

Heidi Baumstark has been writing for several lifestyle magazines and newspaper publications since 2005, specializing in history-related articles highlighting Virginia’s Piedmont. She has been with Middleburg Life since 2014. Heidi hopes to inspire readers to pause and consider the people, places, and events that have shaped the story of our local history.

Michael Butcher is the owner of Butcher Photography. Originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, he resides in Springfield, Virginia, with his family. For the past 15 years, Michael has specialized in portraiture, event, and editorial photography. When not behind the lens, he enjoys gardening and swimming. More of Michael’s work can be found at butcherphotography.com

Laticia Headings is grateful to call Middleburg home. She discovered Middleburg by attending the first annual Middleburg Film Festival in 2013 and has come back to the event every year since as a volunteer and attendee. Laticia is the founder of Latitude Media and has 23 years of experience as a producer, writer, and camerawoman for television (Discovery, National Geographic), and for the documentary film

“Everest: A Climb for Peace.”

Lia Hobel is a freelance journalist, known for her blog, Uplift Loudoun. In addition to her work for Middleburg Life, Lia writes periodically for online platforms with articles appearing on GOBankingRates, Forbes, Huffington Post, and Yahoo! She is a Loudoun 40 Under 40 honoree and a Certified Tourism Ambassador for the county.

Dulcy B. Hooper and her husband Richard moved to the country from Washington, D.C., nearly 10 years ago. Shortly thereafter, both began writing occasional articles for Middleburg Life. Dogs are a big part of the Hoopers’ lives and several of Dulcy’s earlier articles focused on the couple’s Chinese crested powderpuffs!

Beth Rasin graduated from Middlebury College, where she studied nonfiction creative writing. She worked as a writer and editor at The Chronicle of the Horse for more than 25 years, including 10 years as the president and executive editor. As a freelancer, she’s contributed since 2015 to Middleburg Life, as well as Northern Virginia Magazine, Blue Ridge Outdoors, the former Loudoun Magazine, and many others. She lives in Hume, where she and her husband and daughter run a boarding facility for retired horses. She enjoys running, hiking, and spending time with her adopted dogs and cats.

Shayda Windle is a freelance writer covering the arts, people, and places that make Hunt Country so special. Her work has been featured in Plein Air Magazine, the Fairfax County Times, and several online media outlets. In her spare time, you can find her enjoying the great outdoors and exploring Northern Virginia with her husband and two children.

Picnics & Porches Offers Pumpkin Concierge Service This Fall

Written by Lia Hobel | Photos by Callie Broaddus

Imagine stepping onto your porch this autumn and being greeted by a stunning display of vibrant pumpkins, cheerful mums, and

rustic hay bales — all artfully arranged to capture the spirit of the season. What makes this transformative service truly special is that it’s crafted

by a visionary young entrepreneur. “I love to use my imagination to create beauty and evoke emotion in the world around me,” shares Wren Egender, a 17-year-old senior at Foxcroft School and the founder of Picnics & Porches.

As a Bedford Scholar with a concentration in fine arts, Egender has always had a passion for art in all its forms. Harnessing creativity, ambition, and a fresh perspective, she recently launched Picnics & Porches with the help of her mother, Katie Wilson. “My mom is an entrepreneur herself who helps small businesses and solopreneurs with branding, marketing, and events. So I suppose it was only time before she encouraged me to start my own,” Egender says.

The idea for the business came about while looking for summer job opportunities. With encouragement from her mother, who has over 15 years of experience in event planning, Egender launched a luxury picnic and porch décor business that caters to Hunt Country and beyond. “My mom handles a lot of the back-end details and some of the marketing. She’s teaching me the ins and outs of running a business,” Egender explains. The mother-daughter duo works seamlessly together, with Egender focusing on aesthetics and design while Wilson manages the logistics. “I’m thankful that I have a built-in business mentor and best friend. Honestly, without her help I couldn’t have started any of this,” Egender reflects.

One of the key aspects of Picnics & Porches is the distinctive visual brand that Egender and Wilson have created. “We want our offerings to really stand out from our competition,” Egender says. Wilson’s extensive network of top-quality vendors and venues has been invaluable. “I really enjoy learning from and collaborating with them,” Egender adds. For pumpkins, they’ve partnered with Wegmeyer Farms in Hamilton, which

Pumpkin | Page 7

“I love to use my imagination to create beauty and evoke emotion in the world around me.” – Egender

Wren Egender.

boasts a selection of over 50 pumpkin varieties. “We pick a mix of classics and rare heirlooms in different shapes, sizes, and colors, so every porch looks unique.”

Egender emphasizes the convenience of the service, noting that it saves customers time, effort, and the stress of figuring out what to buy and how to arrange it. “We hand-pick the prettiest pumpkins, deliver them right to your porch, and then style everything so it looks amazing,” she explains. The feedback from clients has been overwhelmingly positive, with many appreciating the ease and beauty of the final result.

For porches, customers start by going online and selecting their package. The starter package, “A Touch of Autumn,” offers a pretty mix of pumpkins but more of a DIY approach when it comes to design. “Pick of the Patch” is another option, and as Egender explains, “This is the most ordered package because it has a really stunning variety of pumpkins, including sizes and colors, plus two straw bales and our design services to help display them all.” The “Hello Gourd-geous” package “goes big with even more pumpkins, plus gourds and corn stalks for extra texture.” The next level up is “The Great Pumpkin,” which Egender says is their showstopper. “It features a huge variety of stunning pumpkins, including two giant pumpkins, plus straw bales, corn stalks, ornamental corn — the works.” Additionally, there are specialty looks like “Cream of the Crop” for an all-white palette or “The Pastel Patch” for soft, muted tones. There are also custom packages for homes and businesses that want something special and bespoke.

Visit picnicsandporches.com to learn more. Pumpkin | From page 6

“We’re also partnering with multiple farms for our pumpkin recycling. At the end of the season, we’ll remove your pumpkins and donate them as feed for the farm animals.” – Egender

Together, Wilson and Egender set up and also break down the decorated porches. “It’s definitely a workout, but I love weight training,” Egender says, adding that her stepdad is also a secret weapon to their business success when it comes to the really heavy lifting. “We’re also partnering with multiple farms for our pumpkin recycling. At the end of the season, we’ll remove your pumpkins and donate them as feed for the farm

animals,” she explains.

Looking ahead, Egender is excited about the potential for expansion. Picnics & Porches is in talks with a photographer about hosting fall mini sessions, and the duo is open to partnering with local wreath makers or sign makers to enhance their offerings. On the picnic side of the business, Egender partners with Etten’s Eden and Designing Flowers for florals, and for custom pumpkin

clients, they’ll likely incorporate pots or planters full of ornamental cabbage, sedum, and other late-season bloomers. “I love creating settings and spaces that make people smile. Whether it’s a pretty picnic or a porch full of gorgeous pumpkins, it’s about making everyday moments more magical and memorable,” Egender concludes. ML

MAZZA TRUNK SHOW

Thursday, October 9th | Middleburg Friday & Saturday, October 10th-11th | Alexandria

An Invitation to a Mazza Trunk Show

You're invited to an exclusive trunk show at Mystique Jewelers! We're thrilled to welcome back Italian designer Mazza and his newest Fall collections. Reserve your one-of-a-kind favorites and or have a jewel re-designed!

R.S.V.P.

mystique@mystiquejewelers.com to reserve your appointment!

Fall’s Best Moments Start Here

Award-Winning Wines, Bold Brews & a Warm Welcome Await

If you haven’t visited Barrel Oak lately, now’s the perfect time to rediscover why we’re a Virginia favorite.

Fall at the winery is pure magic — sip bold fine reds by the firepits, breathe in the crisp country air, and take in sweeping views of the Blue Ridge & Shenandoah mountains as the colors turn. From sunny patios and cozy indoor spaces to artisan pizza and chef-driven seasonal bites, Barrel Oak feels like coming home.

Planning a gathering? Our private event and holiday party packages offer beautiful spaces, all-inclusive options, and the kind of warm hospitality that turns every moment into a memory.

Loudoun Cider House rekindLes Community ConneCtions

Written by Bill Kent

After holding numerous weddings at Leesburg’s 48 Fields Farm, professional wedding planner Macy Schilling says, “I couldn’t let anyone else scoop it up because I wanted to preserve the heart and charm.”

Last summer, Schilling moved her family, home office, and two dogs from suburban Springfield to the idyllic 48-acre former dairy farm on the rolling flatlands between Route 15 and the Potomac River.

All the while, she was planning and staging an engagement session or destination wedding just about every weekend this year throughout Hunt Country and the greater DMV area.

Cider | Page 11

Pam Perez, a professional photographer who has worked with Schilling, admires her ability to keep so many plans, projects, and events going simultaneously.

“Macy is very good at what she does,” Perez says. “She’s got a magnetic personality, is really likeable, and is Type A in organization with a Type B disposition. Nothing phases her on a wedding day.”

After graduating from George Mason University eight years ago, Schilling has used more than a hundred venues for weddings. Those have included numerous Hunt Country vineyards, barns and inns, a Potomac River cruise ship, and the International Spy Museum, where the bride and groom posed for photos beside James Bond’s Austin Martin DB-5 (but were not permitted to drive it away).

Of them all, 48 Fields was always her favorite. “It’s been just perfect for me — professionally and for my family,” Schilling shares. “There’s also a personal element. My husband and I are Virginia natives and we’ve lived in many places. This one feels like the home we’ve always wanted. It’s like they say at a wedding: ‘It just had to be.’”

Her husband, Cory, 5-year-old son, Leo, and 1-year-old daughter, Leilani, live in a small cottage just down the hill from the 1908 farmhouse and its impeccably restored barn. Retired greyhound Stella and dachshund Chloe have the run of the grounds, which extend far beyond the wildflower field, apple orchard, and surrounding forest, where three gathering areas are linked by trails.

On a sunny Monday afternoon last September, Schilling staged a grand reopening of the Loudoun Cider House at 48 Fields. To the backdrop of a band, two food trucks, a photography booth, and members of the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce, she announced that what had started as a side project of former owners Kelly and Steve Ewell, where tastings and sales were held by appointment, would become a regular Monday and Thursday gathering location for the neighborhood families and others who want a “third place” to unwind after school, work, or soccer practice.

“Kelly and Steve just loved cider, and I was always a fan of what they made,” Schilling says.

“I want to bring the Cider House back just as they did it, in the barn for tastings and sales. But I want to make it a little bit more fun.”

She hopes that family-friendly movie, music, and game nights, sunset firepit conversations, and other gentle outdoor activities might turn 48 Fields’ barn into a community hub. “When people want to do fundraisers, have a business conference, or just want to come to a place that’s peaceful and beautiful, they’ll want to come here. And maybe have some cider with us,” she adds.

To celebrate the Loudoun Cider House’s reopening, Doug Fabbioli, whose Fabbioli Cellars brews the Cider House’s blends, helped Schilling create a new flavor: Blue Honey. She hopes to sell the cider, which features the light, sweet taste of blueberries — her favorite fruit — and honey from 48 Fields’ TBee’s apiaries, at Roots 657 Café and Market and in Hunt Country taverns and restaurants.

Kristi Doolittle Wick, a brand designer, visual communications strategist, and candlemaker

in Philomont, has no doubt that Schilling will succeed. “If anyone can do it, it is Macy,” Wick says. “She has already built a strong community and network of colleagues and friends, and she approaches every challenge with grit and grace. I’ve seen firsthand how our small towns can feel quiet during the week once the weekend crowds leave. A place like 48 Fields and Loudoun Cider House, open on weekdays as Macy sees it, would be a huge gift to the community.”

Wick, who has sold her candles at farmers markets and winery pop-ups, believes a regular weeknight spot in a farm setting “fills a real gap in our current market. Macy wants to fill it not for business alone, but because she genuinely wants to uplift, support, welcome, and cherish our local community.” ML

Goodstone Inn Uncorks New Cellar Club

Written by Beth Rasin | Photos by Caroline Gray

After the success of its Shop the Cellar events, Goodstone Inn & Restaurant is debuting The Cellar Club, offering curated wines from vineyards around the world for retail sale in Middleburg.

Goodstone’s sommelier, Peyton Dean, has been working in restaurants for nine years. “I’ve always been interested in wine,” shares Dean, who grew up exploring vineyards around his family home in Waterford. Over the last two years, while working at Goodstone, he’s earned his Court of Master Sommeliers certification.

We caught up with Dean to learn more about The Cellar Club and what new opportunities this initiative offers.

ML: How does The Cellar Club work?

PD: There’s no subscription, but once a month, I send out a link to everyone who’s signed up describing anything new that we’ve gotten, any allocated or limited-availability items, or anything cool. You can also select from our wine list, and you can pick up the wine anytime in person.

It really gives people access to our whole list at very aggressive pricing. The typical markup is usually closer to 50%, but our markup is only 35%. You’ll probably see the same bottle somewhere else for $10 to $20 more expensive than on our list.

ML: What are your general price points?

PD: The bulk of wines will be between $75 and $150, but the price range on our list varies a lot. Some are as low as $50, but there are also items as high as $5,000 at resale cost.

ML: What are the advantages of a curated wine collection?

PD: It’s a lot of nice, fine wines that you can’t really find at grocery stores. I work with small-

er distributors importing from Italy, Spain, and France with smaller producers. As a restaurant, we have access to heavily allocated items, which you might not see outside of auctions, where prices soar. We can get them and sell them for fair market cost.

ML: What inspired the creation of The Cellar Club?

PD: It’s another way to sell wine and attract people to Goodstone. We’re all very passionate about making people happy and providing good service to our guests. We strive for excellence, and this adds another layer to our restaurants. The Cellar Club is a great resource for Middleburg, offering access to a lot of things you otherwise couldn’t get.

ML: What kinds of benefits or experiences will members enjoy?

PD: In mid-November, we’re planning a wine dinner with Willowcroft Farm Vineyards in Leesburg, which has the oldest vines in Loudoun County. They were originally planted in the early ’80s. A representative from the vineyard will talk about the wines, give insights into what they’re making, and there will be a nice food menu to pair with the wines. It will be set up like a chef’s table in our beautiful Conservatory.

ML: How do you go about choosing wines for the cellar and for club members?

PD: There could be some seasonal things, like rosé in summer. A lot of things are preordered and coming in October, like Opus One and a few other big producers. Representatives and distributors come and taste things with me a few times a month, too, and if anything is interesting, it will be included.

ML: Will the club highlight particular regions, varietals, or producers?

PD: We will highlight Opus One; we’ll have bottles and half-bottles of a vintage release. We’re looking for really nice quality that is priced very well, and those producers will be featured. Of course, we always have the classic wines, and we’ll promote some of those to make them a little more known and appreciated, because they’re underground.

Peyton Dean.

the family works at the vineyard and plays a role in producing delicious wines.

ML: Is there a particular bottle or story from the cellar you’re especially proud to share?

PD: There are definitely producers I know and love, and producers I gravitate toward when I go out to dinner. Ca’ del baio in Barbaresco is an Italian producer and family-owned, with three or four generations of winemakers in the family. They’re doing awesome things, and everyone in

ML: How do you envision the club evolving over the next few years?

PD: There are a lot of directions it could go. It could turn into something where there are monthly tastings, or a subscription service — there are so many ways it could grow. It could turn into something where there are seller events every month and everyone comes and enjoys a

charcuterie board and a nice glass, sits down and chats and looks through our list. It’s hard to pick a direction at this point.

ML: What excites you most about The Cellar Club?

PD: Getting to talk to people about it, about why something is on our list, is always fun. ML

To join The Cellar Club, go to goodstone.com/cellar-club.

BEYOND THE BEER: Why Lark Brewing Co. Is Aldie’s Gathering Place

Written by Sarah Hickner | Photos by Gracie Savage

Merriam-Webster defines “lark” as a source of amusement or adventure or to engage in harmless fun. That spirit of playfulness is what inspired the name of Lark Brewing Co., just a mile south of the intersection of Route 50 and Route 15 in Aldie. The brewery is perfectly placed for larks of all types, just minutes from Middleburg, Haymarket, and South Riding. Whether on a scenic drive through horse country, running errands nearby, or itching to get out of the house, visitors don’t need to go far to stop at Lark along the way. Need a place to grab lunch or get work done? Head to Lark and enjoy free Wi-Fi and food. Planning a corporate event? Space rentals are available. Want to get the family away from screens and, as kids say today, “touch grass”? Lark has 14 acres of it.

With over 150 tables to choose from, the hardest part of your visit may be deciding where to sit. The taproom welcomes guests with cozy charm, boasting 7,000 square feet of exposed wood beams, comfortable seating, and a fireplace. If the outdoors calls, visitors can nestle around a firepit with friends or grab a table under one of two pavilions. Some spaces are designated 21 and older, while most are open to all ages.

CRAFT ON TAP

Lark Brewing Co. operates a 6-by-10-barrel system where many of the beers on tap are brewed inhouse. The first, and still most popular, offering is the Lark Light Lager. Another fan favorite is the On My Way IPA. With beers named Lark-tober Fest, Weizen Up, and Out Of Office, the lineup showcases both creativity and craftsmanship. For guests interested in something other than beer, Lark has wine slushies as well as Virginia wine provided by local vineyard Walsh Family Wine. Nonalcoholic options include NA beer, mocktails, freshsqueezed lemonades, and sodas. The entire family can find something to enjoy.

GREAT FOOD

No get-together or social outing is complete without a delicious spread. The Reston-based Nordic Knot provides handmade soft pretzels, while loaded nachos are Lark’s most popular item thanks to their shareable size. The kitchen is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. for those seeking a sandwich, appetizer, or flatbread. On weekends and Mondays, a food truck adds even more offerings, like $6 Smashburger Mondays.

With so much to choose from, Lark is a convenient place to meet

Lark | Page 17

Lark | From page 16

friends for a bite and brew. There are even s’mores kits available for a mini adventure around the fire for kids — big or little.

HOSPITALITY AT THE HEART

Lark’s core mission is to provide great hospitality. It isn’t just a place for beer enthusiasts; it’s for families, friends, sports teams, and even remote workers who need a change of scenery. Well-behaved dogs are welcome, too.

As the seasons change, Lark plans to provide new amenities for its patrons. Beginning in October, Lark will supply glass domed igloos so patrons can stay cozy during cooler weather. They hold up to eight people and can be rented through Lark’s website.

And the Christmas season isn’t complete without a little of Santa’s magic. This year, Lark is bringing back its popular Breakfast with Santa every Saturday from Thanksgiving to Christmas, and Dinner with Santa will take place every Tuesday. Tickets are available on Lark’s website, and they’re expected to sell out quickly. For Seuss fans, there will also be an igloo with Grinch-themed décor and food.

A COMPANY THAT CARES

More than a good time, Lark Brewing Co. is making a meaningful social and economic impact on the community. The company employs over 140 locals, and each quarter it chooses a different charity to support. It’s currently raising money for the Max Pound Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting children and families affected by pediatric cancer.

Since opening, Lark has given over $40,000 back to the community through its charity efforts.

When it comes to looking ahead to the future, Lark’s plans are simple: to keep deepening its roots in the community — because, really, couldn’t we all use a little more lark in our lives? ML

For more information, visit larkbrewingco. com.

Top left: Good advice for those who walk through Lark’s doors. Top right: Try a little bit of everything with a beer flight. Bottom: There is something for everyone on Lark’s extensive menu.

ROOT TO TABLE

Harvest Gala

Saturday, November 29, 2025 • 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM

Riverside on the Potomac, Loudoun County, VA

The Culinary Experience of the Season

An unforgettable evening of food, fellowship, and flavor.

VIP Tickets Available — Limited Availability

YOUR VIP EVENING INCLUDES:

• Champagne & Oyster Reception

• Complimentary Signature Cocktail Upon Arrival

• Early Access — one full hour before General Admission

• Exclusive VIP Lounge Seating in a private area overlooking the festivities

• An extraordinary chef lineup showcasing the best of Loudoun and the region

• Private Meet-and-Greet with Featured Chefs & Artisans

• Live Auction led by Loudoun’s own Brian Damewood — an auctioneer you won’t forget

7

Savor the Region. Fuel the Future. Tickets & Information at roottotable.org

Meet Your Neighbors: Yianni and Helen Zissios Celebrate Wine and Family at Blue Valley Vineyard & Winery

Written by Heidi Baumstark | Photos by Michael Butcher

At age 16, when most teenagers are celebrating getting their driver’s license, a Sweet Sixteen-themed birthday, or other coming-of-age rites of passage, Yianni Zissios made a journey: immigrating from Greece to America. At that young age, and without knowing English, Yianni had no idea that his family would go on to open Blue Valley Vineyard & Winery in Delaplane, now a favorite destination for many locals and wine lovers from D.C. Yianni was born in Kozani, a town in northern Greece. In 1969, with his parents and siblings, he left his familiar Greek surroundings to settle in Alexandria, Virginia. “I didn’t want to leave my home country,” he admits. “That was a sad day for me... I remember coming over on a TWA airplane. I couldn’t believe all the big cars here.”

But with determination and a strong work ethic instilled by his parents, he excelled in school, was on the wrestling and soccer teams, and in 1973, graduated from T.C. Williams (now Alexandria City High School).

YIANNI & HELEN

Yianni met his future wife, Helen, at her father’s Black Angus Steakhouse in Falls Church. “Being a family business,” she says, “of course I worked there, too.”

By day, Yianni worked in the plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning business, and on weekends, he worked at Black Angus. “I always had two jobs,” Yianni recalls. “My plan was to go back

to Greece, but I met Helen at the restaurant when she was only 16. And I remember she had braces,” he says with a smile.

Helen would go on to graduate from American University, and in the summer of 1979, the couple married in Yianni’s hometown, Kozani, in the same church where he was an altar boy. Following the wedding, the newlyweds settled in Falls Church, operating a plumbing, heating, and air-conditioning business with, at the time, only $400 to their name.

FIRST THE LAND, THEN WINE

Opening a winery was not part of their plan. However, wine was central to Yianni’s upbringing; making wine with his grandfather at the tender age of 9 and cleaning out wooden barrels for his father’s winemaking, one could say owning a vineyard was in his destiny.

Helen has Greek roots, too. In the early 1950s, her parents immigrated to the U.S. from Karpenissi, in the mountainous region of central Greece. She says, “That’s why we love the mountains here at the winery — it reminds me of home.”

Yianni started making his own wine in the basement of his Falls

Church home. “I got 30-gallon wooden barrels, bought California grapes, and had friendly wine competitions with friends.” He adds, “And I al-

Neighbor | Page 21

Neighbor | From page 20

ways won.”

In spring 1998, the couple bought a 100-acre property in Delaplane with the intent of building a country home. Helen remembers, “I had visions of my kitchen overlooking these mountain ranges.” Yianni got busy planting a small vineyard, just for personal winemaking.

One day in 2012, their son Stergio suggested building a winery. With the beautiful views, they could host weddings and events — a wonderful gathering place for all guests. Helen designed

the 20,000-square-foot building herself. “I had three names in mind for the winery and gave the family the options, and Blue Valley was chosen,” she shares. “I got it from the merging of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley.”

Yianni crafted the beautiful wooden bar tops seen throughout the winery’s tasting room, made from centuries-old trees.

Stergio designed the cellar, which includes custom-made steel tanks from South Africa for white wines, oak barrels from France for reds, and a wine press machine from Germany. Only grapes grown on their property are used in their 16 wines offered. John Levenberg was brought on as their winemaker and consultant. Adjacent to the cellar is The Cave, where they host special

dinners. The property also includes an Airbnb called The Cottage, perfect for wedding parties, families, groups of friends, or business getaways.

Yianni also added sheep and goats to the property, which can be seen roaming the vineyard. “I started with three sheep,” he says, “and now have 200 sheep and goats. And the bells on them are from Greece.”

The winery opened its doors in April 2015, and earlier this year, they celebrated its 10th anniversary.

A frequent visitor to the winery is Father

hummus, olives, and olive oil from 400-yearold olive trees in Sparta drizzled over baguettes that come from a bakery in New York. Canisters of Greek olive oil can also be purchased to take home. Blue Valley offers two wine club memberships with perks, plus its wines are stocked at several local restaurants and hotels.

Blue Valley is the embodiment of the Zissios’ Greek heritage: making memories with those we love, holding close to traditions, and celebrating life’s moments. Yianni says, “I want guests to walk away with a good smile on their faces and think

Costa Pavlakos, a priest at Saint Katherine Greek Orthodox Church in Falls Church. Years ago, he helped plant some of the vines. Pavlakos says, “You know in the Bible, in Psalms, it says, ‘The Lord has given us wine to lighten the hearts of men.’ Yianni started a friendly winemaking competition among friends. It went back for decades, and out of that blossomed their winery.”

THE BLUE VALLEY EXPERIENCE

Award-winning wines combined with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah Valley make Blue Valley Vineyard & Winery a must-visit destination.

Guests can bring food, but the vineyard also offers charcuterie-style bites: cheeses, salami,

Left: Their many accolades. Middle: Family memorabilia. Right: Yianni with his goats.

of the hospitality from the owners and staff.”

Pavlakos remembers, “I helped with planting the original vines and did a blessing over them. Yianni came to this country with nothing — it’s the American dream.”

“It was not easy,” Yianni says, “but you have to make a life for your own success.” Built on family values and a robust work ethic, Blue Valley is a reflection of all the traditions that come with the art of winemaking and the importance of gathering together. ML

Blue Valley Vineyard & Winery

5535 Blue Valley Way Delaplane, VA 20144

bluevalleyvineyardandwinery.com (540) 364-2347

LIMESTONE FARM

acres | $6,695,000

Boyce – The estate features a federal style manor house (circa 1839) which has been beautifully refinished, updated and expanded. Also: charming guest house and 8-stall barn. John Coles | 540-270-0094

|

The Plains – Ideally located 5 BR / 4 full, 2 half BA home on a knoll overlookin protected land. Open pastures, hayfields and mature trees. Stabling for 10 horses. In OCH territory with great ride out.

Emily Ristau | 540-454-9083

OLD MILL FARM 18+ acres | $2,490,000

Middleburg – Enjoy a refined lifestyle in a picturesque setting. Updated 4 BR w/ mountain views. 2 stall barn, 4 paddocks, 2 run-in sheds. Ride out w/ permission. Middleburg Hunt territory.

Kristin Dillon-Johnson | 703-673-6920

Boyce – 3 BR / 1.5 BA huntbox. Remodeled and updated, including exterior paint and new roof. Hardwood floors, high ceilings, 2 working fireplaces. Blue Ridge Mountain views.

Maria Eldredge 540-454-3829 | Anne McIntosh 703-509-4499

CLOVERWOOD 78+ acres | $5,400,000

The Plains – With frontage on Zulla Rd. & Burrland Rd. the estate features an elegant one level main residence, pool, guest house, 2 tenant houses, 2 stables–w/ total 26 stalls and a 4 acre pond. John Coles | 540-270-0094

MORNINGSTAR FARM 31 acres | $3,150,000

The Plains – Sophisticated, French country home. Designed by renowned architect. Great entertaining spaces. Pool. 2 barns, 10 stalls, paddocks, arena. In OCH hunt territory. Great ride out. Emily Ristau | 540-454-9083

BARRON ACRES 16+ acres | $2,480,000

Bluemont – Contemporary all brick residence, in pristine, turn-key condition. Brand new 2 stall barn, pond, and perennial gardens. 3 levels of stunning living space, must be seen to appreciate! Jim McGowan | 703-927-0233

Round Hill – 3 BR / 2.5 BA stone Cape Cod main house and 2 BR / 1 BA stucco guest house. Mature trees and professional landscaping. Small stone & frame barn and 2 paddocks. Easy access to Route 7. Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201 SAUTE MOUTON 4+ acres | $1,195,000 Delaplane – Impressive 7,300 sq. ft.

WILLOW BROOK 359 acres | $5,000,000

Front Royal – Deep in horse country, and only offered for sale three times in 225 years, this historic estate is surrounded by serene farming country in the Rockland Rural Historic District.

Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201

Middleburg – One level stone main house w/ over 3,800+ sq. ft. Swimming pool, bocce ball court, and flagstone firepit. 5-stall center aisle barn, barn apt. 3 fenced paddocks w/ waterers.

Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201

CHARTWELL 24+ acres | $2,295,000

Marshall – Property in Bellevue Farms - a sought-after equestrian community with 30+ miles of shared trails. Custom 7,700+ sq. ft. stone 5 BR / 5.5 BA residence, enjoys sweeping views and a pond. Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201

LITTLE RIVER TPKE. 2+ acres | $925,000

Aldie – Charming historic home, ca. 1820, with kitchen and baths recently renovated. Move-in ready. Verizon FIOS, 2-car garage, a party barn, a studio/office, gardens and mature landscaping.

Rebecca Poston | 540-771-7520

Maria Eldredge 540-454-3829 | Anne McIntosh 703-509-4499

PANTHERSKIN 10 acres | $2,500,000

Middleburg – Elegant Atoka Chase home, masterfully renovated in 2023 for today’s lifestyle. 4 BR / 4 BA home w/main level primary suite, private with beautiful terraces, gardens, lawn and woodland. John Coles | 540-270-0094

UNICORN HILL 74+ acres | $2,250,000

Boyce – In Blue Ridge Hunt territory, 2 parcels–In conservation easement and not dividable. 3 BRs / 3 full BAs, custom built in 1985 and has since had many updates.

Maria Eldredge 540-454-3829 | Anne McIntosh 703-509-4499

HAYMAN LANE .45 acres | $695,000

Round Hill – Fully renovated in the 1990’s by local architect Beckham Dickerson. Just south of the village and only minutes to Rt. 7 this location offers small-town charm with unbeatable convenience. Cricket Bedford | 540-229-3201

LoCaL Love story: Bhavna Bhatia Roszel’s “The ‘I’ in Indian”

Written by Shayda Windle | Photos by Krysta Solomon

Bhavna Bhatia Roszel, a second-generation Indian American whose parents immigrated to the United States in their 20s, spent much of her life trying to reconcile the traditional Indian values instilled in her upbringing with the norms and expectations of modern America. This inner conflict became the spark behind her debut novel, “The ‘I’ in Indian.”

Growing up in Northern Virginia, she recalls feeling like she lived under two sets of rules. “My friends were going to sleepovers, dating in high school, and applying to out-of-state colleges. For me, dating was off-limits, college had to be nearby, and family always came first,” she remembers.

“It wasn’t until my late 20s and early 30s that I stopped trying to choose one identity over the other,” she says. “I didn’t have to be Indian or American — I could actually be both.”

Roszel discovered her voice early, publishing poetry before she fully understood what it meant to be called a writer. Over the years, she built a successful career in marketing and communications, earned a master’s in public communications, and taught at institutions including George

Mason University, Northern Virginia Community College, and Purdue Global. But even with such a full plate, writing remained a steady undercurrent in her life.

She also built deep ties to Middleburg, where she met her husband, Will, a physical educator at The Hill School. “Our early dates were trivia nights, board games at the cidery, swimming at the community center, wandering through the Christmas shop, and watching the hounds and horses parade through town,” she says. “Middleburg bonded us. It also inspired many of the ‘in-between’ moments in my writing.”

Motherhood opened unexpected creative

doors. After having her first child two years ago, Roszel found quiet stretches during maternity leave to write. “I took advantage of the time off. I wrote and wrote. Even after returning to work, I found moments while the baby slept to keep going.” Within a year, she had a finished manuscript and felt ready to publish.

She wanted the publishing process to be collaborative and personal. “I didn’t want to submit my manuscript into a black hole and hope for a

Love | Page 25

Love | From page 24

response. I wanted to work with someone local,” she explains. A Google search led her to Cindy Urbano of Opus Publishing in Leesburg. “There was instant chemistry,” Roszel recalls. “Cindy’s feedback showed she really understood the heart of the story. I knew she could help shape it into something that would resonate — not just with Indian women, but with all women.”

Over nine months, the two worked closely, meeting weekly in person to shape the manuscript, design the layout, and fine-tune every detail.

“The ‘I’ in Indian” is a raw, intimate, and sharply modern comedic novel that follows Aria Kapoor, a second-generation Indian American navigating life after a so-called taboo experience as she searches for love again while carrying the emotional weight of her past. It’s a contemporary

page-turner that transcends culture, age, and expectation. “The ‘I’ in Indian” is a heartfelt tale of identity, love, family, and finding wholeness without regret, in a style that channels the warmth and humor of “My Big Fat Greek Wedding.” The book also includes a sneak peek of Roszel’s forthcoming second novel, “No Permission Needed,” set to release next year.

“Though fictional, the novel is emotionally true,” Roszel says. “It’s inspired by real people and moments in my life. I wrote this book because I wanted others like me to feel seen. To unpack the things we often keep quiet about. Identity isn’t confusion; it’s complexity. And that complexity? It deserves to be celebrated.”

This story is for anyone trying to honor their heritage while carving their own path, and for those who have ever felt caught between worlds. The book is available for purchase at iinindian.

com ML

WINERY HOPPING IN WATERFORD

Written by Shayda Windle | Photos by Sherri Holdridge

Tucked away in Virginia wine country lies the town of Waterford, a picturesque village with distinctive wineries that invite visitors to slow down and savor the flavors of Loudoun County. Just a short drive from Middleburg, these family-owned vineyards and cideries showcase the region’s rich agricultural roots and winemaking talent. From crisp whites and bold reds to sparkling rosés, port-style wines, and handcrafted ciders, each stop offers a unique expression of Hunt Country. Whether you’re looking for sweeping mountain views, a rustic barn setting, or a relaxed afternoon with fami-

ly, friends, and even pets, Waterford’s wineries promise a tasting experience worth the journey. Here are just a few that are worth a visit, with plenty more to discover nearby.

TERRA NEBULO VINEYARDS

Terra Nebulo, Latin for “land of rascals,” is a family-owned winery set on 25 acres with Hunt Country views, featuring grapes that are 100% Virginia grown. Guests often find the owners, Mike and Cheryl Morrison, behind the bar. The main tasting room is a reproduction of a 100-year-old hay barn, originally constructed by

the Amish and finished by Cheryl’s brother. With soaring ceilings and panoramic views of the Catoctin and Short Hill mountains, the space offers both beauty and charm. The cellar tasting room adds a rustic touch and offers a unique feature for wine club members. Terra Nebulo’s portfolio includes a range of whites such as Chardonnay, Riesling, Sparkling Riesling, Traminette, and Viognier. To accompany the wines, the vineyard serves 12-inch wood-fired pizzas in varieties like Margherita, pepperoni, carne, veggie, and more

Waterford | Page 27

— the perfect addition to enjoy a relaxing afternoon among the vines.

Terra Nebulo Vineyards 39892 Old Wheatland Road Waterford, VA 20197 terranebulo.com

THE WINE RESERVE AT WATERFORD

Just minutes from Leesburg and Purcellville, The Wine Reserve at Waterford offers a convenient escape with a tasting experience unlike any other. Perched on a hilltop with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Catoctin Valley, the winery invites guests to try carefully crafted wines and local bites, all served by a warm, friendly staff. The signature Wine Lab tasting sets this winery apart, with six samples presented in test tubes for a fun, self-guided exploration. The portfolio features a thoughtful mix of reds and whites, including Silver Lining, a crisp stainlesssteel-aged Sauvignon Blanc, and First Harvest, an award-winning flagship white known for its balance of apple and spice. Among the standout reds are Quat, a Cabernet Franc layered with bright red fruit and aromatics and a gold medalist of the

2025 Virginia Governor’s Cup, and Culmination, a softer expression of a Cabernet Franc with subtle spice and a kiss of French oak. To complement the wines, the Reserve offers light fare including a vineyard bento box, a grilled cheese and apple panini, a Cuban sandwich, a caprese panini, and truffle popcorn. Guests may also bring their own food to enjoy. For those who want to savor the experience year-round, The Wine Reserve’s wine club provides access to limited small-batch wines, exclusive events, and member discounts.

The Wine Reserve at Waterford 38516 Charles Town Pike Waterford, VA 20197 waterfordwinereserve.com

CORCORAN VINEYARDS & CIDERY

A family-run winery, Corcoran Vineyards & Cidery has hosted guests at its Waterford farm for more than two decades. Currently open by appointment only, Corcoran is best known for its specialty wines and hard ciders, all crafted with care by owner and winemaker Lori Corcoran. She began making wine in 2002, starting with traditional varietals and dessert wines before expanding into cider in 2013 — a move that

quickly earned her recognition in the local cider community. Passionate about her craft, Corcoran is often on hand to greet guests and answer questions, making every visit a personal and educational experience. “We are excited to be able to carry on the tradition that Thomas Jefferson started back in 1769 when he planted numerous varieties of apples at Monticello,” she shares. Today, Corcoran specializes in port-style wines, aged for seven to eight years in whiskey barrels, alongside a lineup of dessert wines, standards, and their signature ciders. Tastings take place in a rustic converted barn, with seating available indoors, in gazebos, or in the upstairs tasting room.

For those looking for a special venue, Corcoran Vineyards & Cidery is also available to rent for private events and weddings, offering a charming pastoral backdrop.

Corcoran Vineyards & Cidery 14635 Corkys Farm Lane Waterford, VA 20197 corcorancider.com

Waterford | Page 28

CARRIAGE HOUSE WINEWORKS

In 2016, Mike and Gerri Fritze purchased

their Waterford farm, transforming it into a thriving vineyard. What started with a few acres of red grapes soon expanded to include several acres of whites, and today the couple tends to six different grape varieties on their estate. As winemaker, Mike’s philosophy is that the best wines begin in the vineyard. He adapts his winemaking style to the unique character of each grape, striving to bring out the fullest expression of the terroir and season. Among their whites, the 2021 Chardonnay is known for its earthy notes with a bright citrus finish, while the 2022 Chardonnay has a smooth amber-hued body with hints of apple and vanilla. Their reds include the 2021 Chambourcin; the 2020 Red Barouche, a bold, dry red blend; and Petit Verdot (both Reserve and Estate), Virginia’s big bold tannic red. The latter two have won multiple gold medals in major contests like the Virginia Governor’s Cup and

San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. For something festive, guests can enjoy Gentry 2024, the winery’s sparkling rosé. This as well as the Shelly Sparkling Chardonnay have both brought in gold medals and Best in Category awards in the Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition.

Carriage House welcomes visitors for tastings on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 to 6 p.m. Vineyard tours paired with tastings are also offered by appointment for $35 per person. Light fare is available for purchase, though guests are welcome to bring a picnic as well. Families and leashed dogs are invited to join, making it an ideal countryside outing for wine lovers of all kinds. ML

Carriage House Wineworks 40817 Browns Lane Waterford, VA 20197 chwwinery.com

Hunt Country’s Wine, Beer, & Cider Guide

8 Chains North is a working farm winery, brewery, and event venue in Virginia’s Loudoun County. The winery includes an inviting Tasting Room, extensive outdoor seating, a dog park, and beautiful private event spaces perfect for weddings, special occasions, and corporate functions all with stunning vineyard views.

38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford, VA 20197 (571) 439 - 2255 | 8chainsnorth.com | @8chainsnorth | facebook.com/8chainsnorth

Sip the spirit of Virginia at Mt. Defiance Cidery & Distillery. Located in Middleburg, we craft crisp, locally inspired ciders, bold small-batch spirits, and award-winning wines. Every bottle tells a story of craftsmanship, community, and Virginia pride.

495 E. Washington Street, Middleburg, VA 20117 (540) 883-3176 | mtdefiance.com | @mtdefiance | facebook.com/mtdefiance

Old Bust Head Brewing Company is an independent, solar-powered microbrewery in Fauquier County, Virginia, part of a unique farm called ‘Vint Hill’ that for 50 years operated as a top-secret military listening post. We believe life should be both rich and sustainable. We love the creativity of craft beer, the good feeling of authentic places and stories, the inspiration of original and diverse experiences, and the fulfillment of meaningful connections to friends and community.

7134 Farm Station Road, Warrenton, VA 20187 (540) 347-4777 | oldbusthead.com | @oldbustheadbrewco | facebook.com/oldbusthead

Our family grape-growing legacy, which dates back to 1571, has found a home nestled in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia As a family-owned and woman-led winery, Rappahannock Cellars focuses on sustainability and crafting rich, elegant wines. Powered entirely by solar energy, we honor the land while respecting tradition and embracing a sustainable future.

14437 Hume Road, Huntly, VA 22640 (540) 635-9398 | rappahannockcellars.com | @rcellars | facebook.com/rcellars

“

Ithought I had retired in 2018,” shares Viyas Sundaram, a veteran of the tech world and most recently CEO of the Reston-based GoCanvas, which offers solutions to streamline data collection. “My daughters [were] 1 and 5 at that time, and I wanted to be the only daddy at the playgroup and relish in those moments.

“But I just don’t have an idle hand,” he continues, “so I ended up founding one of the largest resellers of rare whiskey, The Bourbon Concierge. I got immersed into bourbon culture and thus became a hobbyist, a collector of these rare bottles… I was just doing it as a fun passion project that accidentally ended up becoming this large enterprise.”

After partnering with a friend who owns a liquor store, Sundaram explains, “This light bulb went off in my head [about] being able to use digital strategy to connect people with this amazing history that’s rich in each of these rare bottles of whiskey.”

From collector to retailer, Sundaram next opened a whiskey bar in Georgetown called The Fountain Inn to showcase his love of rare bottles and in-depth knowledge of their history. The Fountain Inn “created this amazing ecosystem of reinforcement and customer loyalty,” he explains,

NEW ESTATE BOTTLES RARE WHISKEY AND CREATES LASTING MEMORIES

Written by Kaitlin Hill | Photos courtesy of Provenance Estate

“because we were creating a knowledge base and experiences for our customers.”

Then Sundaram decided to take that focus on education and passion a step further. “What I really want to do is bring people to the core of the journey to where the product is actually made,” he shares. “I wanted to actually create whiskey.”

That transition brought him to Hunt Country, a move beneficial for both his business and his family. “As my kids got [older] we would spend a little more time here, and then realized we wanted to live here,” he says, adding, “I am all about maximizing my time on this planet, so I decided to find a property where we could unlock our commercial desires as well.”

That property was Middleburg’s Mortgage Hall. Sundaram, a self-described restoration geek, shares, “It is a beautiful property, and the prior owner did an admirable job of getting it to its then state. But it still had so much deferred maintenance that I viewed it as an opportunity or a palette for us to paint something really magical.”

Out of Mortgage Hall, Provenance Estate was born. Since acquiring the property, Sundaram has been on a three-year mission to restore the facilities and install his whiskey experience vision, all while honoring the property’s history.

He’s transformed the equestrian facilities into rickhouses that hold more than 2,000 aging casks and an upgraded tasting room with spectacular views.

This process, he shares, influenced his thinking on how to approach the creation of whiskey. “There is no way to recreate a 200-year-old estate in Middleburg. It is an experiential thing that is priceless. The same thing applies to whiskey.” He continues, “The reality of whiskey, just like our property, goes back generations. There are generational whiskey manufacturers in our country that have made an amazing product that can be the core foundation of our product. So, I made the decision to be what is called a non-distilling producer.”

Sundaram explains, “We acquire rare barrels from around the country, mostly Kentucky, and a few from across the pond, and we age them here in our Virginia rickhouses. Then we finish them.”

In September, Sundaram and principal whiskey maker Jay West released 1787 Provenance Bourbon. Sundaram notes that West oversees the barrel selections and blending processes for all of 1787 Provenance Bourbon.

Memories | Page 31

Memories | From page 30

Beyond being respectful of a whiskey’s history, the decision to be a non-distilling producer is also an eco-friendly one. “To age and bottle whiskey, we are not using surplus water and there are no chemicals involved. Out of my 121 acres, maybe one acre is being used for the commercial component of this,” Sundaram says. He adds, “The most important employee … is actually a supervisor, and it is Mother Nature. She is the sole creator of whiskey.”

He’s currently pursuing a partnership with the Piedmont Environmental Council to be a prototype of how to “generate demand but use a really small footprint.”

This ethos extends to his vision for guest experience, too. Rather than having a tasting room with daily opening hours, Provenance Estate is

open by appointment only and on the first Saturday of every month. “Instead of me trying to get a thousand people here, which is not the intent, my goal is to get eight people here to come and experience a barrel pick, choose their whiskey, and understand how it’s made,” he says. “Now I have eight people that are sharing the story at a cocktail party back in D.C., Maryland, Virginia. And that becomes our mechanism for broader commercialization, because those people then will go to a liquor store and buy the product from our outlets.”

The small group size is also ideal for another core component of Sundaram’s business: making memories. “The intention is to create a sort of multisensory experiential journey to create memories and shared moments through whiskey versus the whiskey itself.”

DREAMING OF COUNTRY LIVING?

In fact, guests who visit aren’t initially offered a glass, but instead are encouraged “to take a bag of carrots the minute you arrive, and you’re going to go meet Martha and George, the two resident donkeys.”

Sundaram’s approach to the whiskey business is certainly unique. Part retail and part whiskey education, perhaps what is most alluring to guests is his genuine enthusiasm for selling something you can’t put a price on — lasting memories. ML

Newsworthy Releases & Upcoming Events at Mt. Defiance

Written by Kaitlin Hill | Photos courtesy of Mt. Defiance

For those traveling to the town of Middleburg from the east, Mt. Defiance’s Cidery & Distillery acts as an unofficial welcome sign, perched atop a hill just off Route 50. The barn’s wraparound windows and string lights emit a warming glow, beckoning visitors to cozy up to the bar for a handcrafted cider or smallbatch spirit. The bottle roster at Mt. Defiance has something for everyone, with nine liquors from absinthe to whiskey and ciders for every season.

On September 21, the team at Mt. Defiance released two new offerings, this time wading into the world of wine. Of the decision to make their own vintages, General Manager Tiffanie Gulledge shares, “We have been highlighting wine from around the world for years, but thought, we are in D.C.’s wine country and should release our own!”

Mt. Defiance unveiled its Skyline Chardonnay

and 1863 Red Blend, working with Williams Gap Vineyard to produce each. Gulledge explains, “We are sourcing our grapes from Williams Gap Vineyard — keeping it local to Loudoun County! We also make their sweet vermouth, so it’s a great relationship.” She adds, “We work intensely with Bridgette Smith, the general manager of Williams Gap, and Fabio Pepe, the winemaker at Williams Gap, to find the perfect varietals and balance for Mt. Defiance wines.”

According to Gulledge, the Skyline Chardonnay is inspired by “local terroir and the beauty of the Blue Ridge skyline.” The tasting notes include green apple and pear with hints of vanilla. 1863 is locally rooted, too. Named for the Battle of Mt. Defiance, the red blend is a bold mix of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, resulting in flavors of dark cherry and blackberry with

subtle spice and smooth tannins.

Though new to Mt. Defiance’s offerings, the wines are already building a reputation. Gulledge says, “We decided to enter our wines into the Loudoun Wine Awards, and our 1863 won a gold! This is an amazing accomplishment since there was a record amount of entries, with only 20 gold winners.”

For Mt. Defiance, the new releases are just the beginning of an exciting string of events. On October 18 it will hold a Harvest Day celebration, and on November 16 visitors are invited to explore its Christmas Market.

Looking ahead to 2026? “We do hope to add to our repertoire next year — by introducing a rosé!” ML

For more from Mt. Defiance Cidery & Distillery, visit mtdefiance.com.

“Designing Christmas” with Laura Dowling Comes to the Community Center

Written by Diane Helentjaris | Photos courtesy of Laura Dowling

On Thursday, October 23, the Piedmont Garden Club will host a floral arranging seminar and demonstration with former White House Chief Floral Designer Laura Dowling at the Middleburg Community Center. This ticketed event, which runs from 10 a.m. to noon, will include a coffee reception, book signings for Dowling’s “Designing Christmas” and “Floral Diplomacy,” and a silent auction of floral arrangements.

Of Dowling, who worked under the Obama administration, Kristi Germinario from the Piedmont Garden Club says, “We’re just excited… to have someone with six years [of experience] as chief floral designer.” She adds, “Laura Dowling’s

style is different, unique, using a lot of natural elements with a French flair,” which should be “appealing to our community… Christmas in Middleburg is a big deal.”

The Piedmont Garden Club was founded in 1931. “We like to concentrate on projects within the community,” Germinario says. Proceeds from the “Designing Christmas” event will be used to fund these efforts.

Dowling, a native of Chehalis, Washington, worked in strategic communications until a 2000 trip to Paris. Enchanted by the French perspective on floral design, she jumped onto a new career path. After grounding herself with studies in France and Germany, she created a floral de-

sign studio operating out of her basement kitchen. She went on to successfully compete for the position of White House chief floral designer in 2009, which she held for six years. In 2019, she was commissioned by the U.S. Postal Service to design a collection of four holiday wreath stamps. Her unique floral designs are featured in magazines and television, and she has authored multiple books.

In advance of her forthcoming event, Dowling shared her thoughts on all things floral design with Middleburg Life:

ML: You note that you draw inspiration from the

Christmas | Page 35

| From page 34

Hunt Country aesthetic. In your opinion, what defines Hunt Country style in the world of flowers?

LD: For me, Hunt Country style, especially here in the heart of Virginia, is inspired by the beauty of the forests, fields, and meadows — a natural, traditional approach to flowers and décor. I love combining woodland flowers, fruits, and berries with fresh evergreens, and weaving grasses and gilded leaves into wreaths and baskets. To capture the true spirit of the style, I layer these natural materials with classic sporting motifs — stags, hounds, horses — along with tartan and velvet ribbons. The result is a rich, festive look in red, green, and gold, warmed by candlelight and gilded touches, creating a sense of tradition and warmth that is perfect for the holiday season.

ML: Your unique style appears to draw from the Northwest in a very special way, overlaying with traditional, Old World designs. Is that how you would describe your personal aesthetic?

LD: I think you’re exactly right. Growing up in Washington state, in the shadow of Mt. Rainier, my aesthetic comes from those early impressions of nature — the towering evergreens, orchards

heavy with fruit, and gardens filled with rhododendrons, lilacs, and roses. That kaleidoscope of colors and textures gave me a lifelong sense of awe at the beauty of the natural world. Over the years, through my floral studies in Paris and my love of antiques and traditional interiors, I’ve sought to blend that wild, untamed spirit of the Pacific Northwest with a refined, artistic sensibility. My goal is to create designs that feel both artful and natural, a harmony between the grandeur of nature and the refined principles of classical design.

ML: Your original career path is quite different from what you do now, at first glance, yet the idea of “flower diplomacy” depends on sensitivities and knowledge of cultural nuances. Do you feel the first part of your career has influenced the second part?

LD: It’s true, at first glance my career path might seem like quite a shift, but in reality, my policy background was the perfect preparation for my work with flowers. As a policy analyst and communications strategist in Washington, I learned how to break down complex issues into their component parts, to problem-solve, and to craft messages that resonate — skills that translate directly into design. Creating a bouquet or planning a state dinner is really the same kind of process: conceptualizing an overall vision and then bringing the details together in harmony.

To me, every step of my career has been a building block to the next, and I believe we all have the power to leverage our experiences in unexpected ways. “Floral diplomacy” is exactly that: the art and science of using flowers as a language of diplomacy to honor visiting dignitaries, convey history and culture, and celebrate traditions. My background gave me the framework and confidence to use flowers not only as decoration, but as tools for communication, connection, and inspiration.

ML: What’s next for you? Are you working on a new book, project, or direction you’d like to talk about?

LD: It’s a very exciting season for me. In the immediate future, I’ll be embarking on a nationwide book tour with stops in Highlands, New Orleans, St. Louis, and Santa Barbara before returning to Nashville to decorate the Cheekwood Mansion for the holidays, beginning with our preinstalla-

tion “crafting days” and then the full installation in November. After the holidays, I’ll be focusing on a special project for America’s 250th anniversary: a “Great American Road Trip” installation featuring a vintage Dodge LeFemme bedecked in flowers, a floating hot-air balloon to capture the spirit of adventure, and a giant U.S. map highlighting iconic roadways and destinations. I’m also helping my husband finalize his book “Old Town Style,” a celebration of 45 historic homes and interiors in Old Town Alexandria, which will be published in December. And looking ahead, I’m already sketching out ideas for my next book — perhaps a second volume of “Bouquets” or a new concept focused on entertaining and celebrations — because I see my books as part of an ongoing conversation with readers. Above all, my goal is to create beauty and inspiration wherever I go, and I look forward to many more exciting projects, both here and abroad.

ML: What’s the best part of what you do now?

LD: For me, the best part is sharing my story, how I went from being a part-time florist to becoming chief floral designer at the White House, and hopefully inspiring others to follow their own passions and dreams at any stage of life. Flowers have given me the chance to meet and collaborate with people from around the world, both during my years at the White House and now through my current projects. I feel so grateful that my work allows me to spread beauty and inspiration while connecting with people across the country.

ML: What would you like folks to know about your work and this upcoming event?

LD: For me, flowers have always been about more than decoration; they’re a way of creating beauty, telling stories, and bringing people together. This event is especially meaningful as it marks the debut of my new book, “Designing Christmas,” and I look forward to sharing both the joy of the season and the inspiration behind my work. My hope is that guests leave feeling uplifted, with fresh ideas to bring a little extra beauty and celebration into their own homes and traditions this holiday season. ML

Tickets and additional information about the event are available at laura-dowling.eventbrite.com. A festive mantel.

FALL HUNTING SCENES

Photos by Joanne Maisano

Our Favorite Local Boozy Gifts

by Callie Broaddus

and

Our Biggest Needs Are:

Our Biggest Needs Are:

Barn Homes for Mouse Patrol Off icer

Our Biggest Needs Are:

Barn Homes for Mouse Patrol Off icer

Cats

Barn Homes for Mouse Patrol Off icer

Cats

Emergency Medical Funding

Cats

Emergency Medical Funding

Funding for Spay & Neuter

Emergency Medical Funding

Funding for Spay & Neuter

And Cat Food (Purina Brands, please!)

Funding for Spay & Neuter

And Cat Food (Purina Brands, please!)

Thank you!

And Cat Food (Purina Brands, please!)

Thank you!

Thank you!

OUR MISSION

OUR MISSION

OUR MISSION

For the Cats’ Sake is an all-volunteer, non-prof it organization dedicated to spaying and neutering stray, feral and domesticated cats, and f inding them homes through our foster-based adoption program. We help control the cat population by providing low and no-cost spay/neuter services, and operate a T.N.R. program (trap, neuter & return).

For the Cats’ Sake is an all-volunteer, non-prof it organization dedicated to spaying and neutering stray, feral and domesticated cats, and f inding them homes through our foster-based adoption program. We help control the cat population by providing low and no-cost spay/neuter services, and operate a T.N.R. program (trap, neuter & return).

Donate today at forthecatssake.org

For the Cats’ Sake is an all-volunteer, non-prof it organization dedicated to spaying and neutering stray, feral and domesticated cats, and f inding them homes through our foster-based adoption program. We help control the cat population by providing low and no-cost spay/neuter services, and operate a T.N.R. program (trap, neuter & return).

Donate today at forthecatssake.org

Donate today at forthecatssake.org

471, Flint Hill, Virgini

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

“CONSIDER IT COSMIC” AT THE BYRNE GALLERY

October 1 - November 2 | thebyrnegallery.com

Don’t miss The Byrne Gallery’s October 2025 exhibit featuring artists Joe LaMattina, Anne Marchand, and J-P Müller. There will be a reception on Saturday, October 4, from 4 to 7 p.m. and an artists’ talk on Sunday, October 26, from 2 to 4 p.m. No tickets are necessary.

MAZZA TRUNK SHOW AT MYSTIQUE JEWELERS

October 9 | mystiquejewelers.com

Explore the latest fall collection from Italian designer Mazza. Participants can reserve one-of-akind pieces or have a jewel redesigned. Mention Middleburg Life magazine to get 10% off. To RSVP, email mystique@mystiquejewelers.com.

INTERACTIVE PAINTING WITH MADELEINE BUNBURY AT NSLM

October 10 | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. | nationalsporting.org

Experience an interactive painting demonstration with equine portrait artist Madeleine Bunbury at the National Sporting Library & Museum. Partic-

ipants are invited to observe and/or bring supplies to paint along. This is a free public program, but artists are required to bring their own supplies.

CARS & COFFEE AT CALLAWAY CLASSICS

October 11 | 8 to 11 a.m. | callawayclassics.com

Stop by Callaway Classics in Marshall, Virginia, for a relaxed car show and the opportunity to hang out with car people. Don’t have a classic or specialty vehicle? It’s a great event to check out some cool cars and maybe learn a thing or two about them. A food truck will be on-site selling breakfast and coffee. More information can be found on the Callaway Classics website.

THE VIRGINIA FALL RACES

October 11 | 12:30 p.m. | vafallraces.com

Celebrate the 71st running of the Virginia Fall Races with a day of thrilling steeplechase action at Glenwood Park in Middleburg. Attracting over 10,000 fans, this is a family-friendly event with a petting zoo, bounce house, and kids activities. And don’t miss Vendor Village with something for everyone, including clothing, hats, gifts, jewelry, pet supplies, and more. Tickets are available through the Virginia Fall Races website.

MIDDLEBURG FILM FESTIVAL

October 16 - 19 | middleburgfilm.org

The Middleburg Film Festival returns for its 13th year, offering four days of fantastic films, engaging Q&As, and fascinating speaker events with Hollywood’s top talent. The festival will showcase a carefully curated selection of narrative and documentary films while recognizing outstanding individuals in the film community. Tickets are available through the festival’s website.

SWING FOR THE VINES AT GREENHILL VINEYARDS

October 18 | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. | experiencegreenhill.com

Golfing at Greenhill Vineyards is back this fall! The spacious lawn will be transformed into an exclusive driving range. Tee off from the Tasting Room’s lower patio and compete for prizes. All skill levels are welcome and supporters are encouraged. Tickets include a half-hour tee reservation, a bucket of balls, and a glass of Greenhill’s 2022 Blanc de Blancs. Please bring your clubs! Tickets can be booked through the Greenhill website.

Calendar | Page 43

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

INTERNATIONAL GOLD CUP

HAYMARKET DAY

October 18 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | townofhaymarket.org

Celebrate all things Haymarket with the town’s biggest event of the year. Starting with the parade at 10 a.m., the festivities will include kids activities, beer gardens, food, drinks, and over 200 vendors to browse from. Parking for the event is available at Tyler Elementary School and the Heathcote Blvd Park & Ride.

LADIES NIGHT AT LOST BARREL BREWING

October 24 | 4 to 9:30 p.m. | lostbarrel.com

Lost Barrel Brewing’s ladies night is the perfect way to spend a fall Friday. The evening will include the musical stylings of DJ Heather, candles and incense from Enchanted Botanicals, a charm bar and permanent jewelry from Ransom Jewelry, custom hats with Hat Pin by Angie, glitter hair strands by Glitter Goddess Hair Studio, and so much more! The event is intended for all ages and is free to attend.

October 25 | 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. | vagoldcup.com

Experience the excitement of world-class equestrian action across seven races at the International Gold Cup at Great Meadow. In addition to great racing, spectators are invited to participate in the tailgate and hat contests! For more information and tickets, visit vagoldcup.com

OLD BUST HEAD BENEFIT 5K WALK/RUN

October 25 | 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. | oldbusthead.com

Join Old Bust Head’s 12th annual race benefiting Finley’s Green Leap Forward (finleysgreenleapforward.org). Serious runners or those who just want to come out to run, walk, or stroll to support a great cause on a scenic course are welcome. Dogs and Halloween costumes are also encouraged! Visit oldbusthead.com/events to register.

BOOS, BARKS, & BREWS AT BARREL OAK WINERY

October 25 | 4 to 7 p.m. | middleburghumane.org Have fun and give back at Middleburg Humane

Foundation’s Boos, Barks, & Brews event at Barrel Oak Winery & Brewery. The evening will include a crab cake dinner from Talk of the Mountain Crab Cakes, drinks from Barrel Oak, and the DJ services of Snap’n’Share. Tickets are $75 and can be reserved through the Middleburg Humane Foundation website. All proceeds benefit animals currently in their care.

KIDS COSTUME PARTY & PUMPKIN

CARVING AT BEAR CHASE BREWING

October 26 | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. | bearchasebrew.com

Bring the whole family for a fun-filled day of festive fall activities. Kids can show off their costumes while flexing their creativity during a pumpkin carving session. Tickets are $15 and include a pumpkin, carving tools, and a pretzel to snack on. Tickets can be booked through Eventbrite.

For more Hunt Country events, visit MiddleburgLife.com or scan here:

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