Enoree River Vineyard and Winery, Newberry, South Carolina

 

“Every season hath its pleasure; Spring may boast her flowery prime, yet the vineyard’s ruby treasures brighten Autumn’s sob’rer time.”

Thomas Moore

Did you know the quaint town of Newberry, South Carolina has a great winery just outside of town? It is located just minutes off I-26 about 30 minutes north west of Columbia, South Carolina. After spending an enjoyable day in this picturesque, historic town, Enoree River Vineyard and Winery seemed like the perfect place to go at the end of our day and relax with a lovely glass of their delicious wine.

The winery sits on eight acres of gorgeous land surrounded by trees in rural Newberry County and is known by the locals as the “Center of the Universe.” We pulled into the winery and walked up the ramp lined with beautiful potted plants to the Upper tasting room. When we opened the doors to the tasting room, it was a lovely wide open room with many large windows facing the vineyard. The tasting room had plenty of seating including comfortable sofas facing the stone fireplace, tables and chairs scattered around, and a tasting bar. In one corner of the room, they had items for sale such as tee shirts, glasses, candles, novelties, and of course their flavorful wines.

Richard LaBarre greeted us as we came in and asked if we wanted to do a tasting. You can do a tasting for $10 and sample 8 different wines and get a souvenir wine glass, or order a glass of wine, or even a bottle. We chose to just get a glass of wine. He was super friendly and told us about how his wife, Laura and he started this Vineyard in 2006 when they planted 800 vines of Carlos and Noble Muscadines with the help of family members. In the fall of 2009, they planted Hebemont and Lenoir grapevines. They also brought back Black Spanish cuttings from Texas oldest vineyard, the Val Verde Winery to add to their vineyard. 

After chatting it up with him for a while, we took our glass of wine out to the covered porch that overlooks the quaint winery. The Vineyard is set in a serene setting and was very relaxing looking out over the vineyard. After sitting a spell, we walked down the stairs, off the deck, and walked the vineyard with rows and rows of vines laden with grapes nearing harvest time. What a divine sight to see.

They built a pergola on site and have live entertainment on most weekends with food trucks. There are picnic tables scattered on the property to sit outside under trees as well as a campfire. After enjoying the views and relaxing, we went back inside. I ordered one of their slushies that they serve during the warm months from Thursday through Sunday. It was wonderful. Joe got another glass of wine and we sat down and spoke with Richard again. He states his wines are handcrafted with a variety of Muscadine, Vinifera, fruit, and blended wines. He pulled out the scrapbook showing the progress of this vineyard from the beginning which was fascinating.

Before we left, we bought a couple bottles of wine to enjoy at home.  Their wine prices are very reasonable. If you are in the area, this is a great place to stop, relax, and enjoy true southern hospitality in an intimate setting. We highly recommend this winery and will be back. They are located at 1650 Dusty Road, Newberry, South Carolina and if you want to know more about them; check them out at: www.enoreeriverwinery.com.

Till next time. Bye for now.