Yes, you heard right. A Wine Valley in South Carolina. Now, this valley only consists of one vineyard, but its a start for a state that doesn’t see much grape growth. Victoria Valley Vineyards, located in Cleveland, SC is paving the way for The South to make and sell respectable wines. If you make a right after the boiled peanuts stand on Rte 11 you can’t miss it.
Victoria Valley Vineyards is a beautiful French inspired stone building overlooking their rolling hills of vines. You enter the tasting room and are greeted by the normal wine-industry tchotkies for sale as well as some local art. Then, you can either stand at the tasting counter or proceed to their outdoor patio for a few glasses of wine with lunch.
They are open Monday through Saturday from 11am to 6pm and offer a wide array of salads, sandwiches and the like during lunch hours. Accompanied by a bottle of wine (the most expensive is barely over $20), a lunch on the veranda is a relaxing escape.
Victoria Valley makes several varietals, most notably a 2004 Merlot. This particular wine is a palatable blend of spice and cherry notes, exactly what you would expect out of a Merlot. The body isn’t quite as big and bold as those from more notable valleys, but for the price point, it surely does not disappoint.
Their 2004 Chardonnay is also a fan favorite that exudes a smooth french oak finish. Perfect for a hot and humid South Carolina summer. Their offerings are rounded out by a syrah, fume blanc, a few table wines and their first production of Cabernet.
So, if you’re ever “just passing through,” stop by Victoria Valley Vineyards for a little bit of down-home wine-making with class. Visit their website for information on upcoming events and their wine club membership.
