Shenandoah Vineyards boasts a lively legacy as the oldest active winery in Virginia, and the oldest winery in the Shenandoah Valley. Though told they were crazy when they first started out in 1976, founders Jim and Emma Randel recognized the viticultural potential of the site.
Located in Edinburg on land that had been in Emma’s family since the mid-1800s, Shenandoah Vineyards celebrates a milestone 50th birthday this year!
Emma ran Shenandoah until she was 92, when Michael Shaps purchased the property in 2018. Shaps had worked as a winemaking consultant for Emma for several years before making his purchase. His discerning eye could see the viticultural potential of the limestone soils and drier growing conditions.
Today, historic Shenandoah is managed by relatives of the Randels. We want to raise a glass to those who unknowingly made history in 1976 as patrons of this place, and invite anyone we haven’t yet met onto the property.
Shenandoah Vineyards has always been a testament to community and fellowship; and it always will be. We invite you to savor our wines and tell us your lore. We couldn’t do this without you.
Winemaker David Lambert got his start in the wine industry right here at Shenandoah Vineyards. Lambert began in 2010 as “The Cellar Rat” under Randel and later became co-winemaker under Michael Shaps.
Now his portfolio includes managing his own vineyards and working as a wine consultant in the local area and Loudoun County, in addition to making wines at Shenandoah.
Find Lambert on the property during your visit and ask him for his tasting notes and tales.