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The Virginia Vineyards Association, incorporated in March 1983, originated in 1979/80 as a joint effort for information exchange and cooperation among viticulturists, wineries, and VPI & SU. Our goal to increase awareness and recognition of the quality and diversity of Virginia’s grapes and wines.

Viticultural interests of the state

Growth of commercial grape-growing as a major component of the Virginia agricultural sector

Cultivation of all species of grapes

Public recognition of the products made from Virginia’s grapes

Establishment and maintenance of mutually beneficial relationships with local, state, and federal government agencies

Free interchange of information and ideas with professional and amateur enthusiasts.

We invite you to join our growing association which is dedicated to the viticultural interests of Virginia. Our members include commercial growers, those who grow grapes as a hobby, and others who just want to learn more about viticulture. Many of Virginia’s farm wineries are also members, as are several companies which can provide goods and services to grape growers throughout the state. Membership is not limited to Virginia residents, we welcome all who share our interests.

Board of Directors

President
Bill Tonkins
Aftonshire
bill.tonkins@veritaswines.com

Past President
Dean Triplett
Greenstone Vineyard
gsvineyard@aol.com

Vice President
Dick Thomas
Naked Valley Vineyards
mmthomas9@verizon.net

Secretary
Tom Kelly
Rappahannock Cellars
tkelly@rcellars.com

Treasurer
Jim Benefiel
Benevino Vineyards
jwbenefiel@aol.com

Technical Advisor
Dr. Tony K. Wolf
vitis@vt.edu

Research Committee Chair
Emily Hodson
Veritas Vineyard & Winery
emily@veritaswines.com

Education Committee Chair
Karl Hambsch
Hambsch Family Vineyards
khambsch@embarqmail.com

Legislative Committee Chair
Randy Phillips
Cave Ridge Vineyard
rphillips@caveridge.com

Financial Audit Committee Chair
Dick Connell
Blue Zephyr Vineyard
dick@bluezephyr.bz

Communications Committee Chair
Turtle Zwadlo
tzwadlo@pollakvineyards.com