Location
14001 Harpers Ferry Rd
Purcellville, VA 20132
About the Winery
Tucked away in Purcellville, VA between the Short Hills and Blue Ridge Mountains, it sits at 868 feet – the highest elevation in the valley. 868 Estates is the result of three families who dreamed up the idea of a winery and restaurant in the rolling hills of northern Virginia. The vineyard opened in 2012 with ten acres of vines bursting with fruit to ferment into Pinot Grigio, Rose, Chardonnay, Merlot and other varietals.
The families behind the winery all had a strong interest in winemaking along with backgrounds in hospitality. Their previous experience in this field combined with their passion for the craft led them to where they are today. Head winemaker Carl DiManno creates rich and intriguing wines with his blend of cutting-edge technological practices and old world winemaking techniques.
Most notably, 868 Estate Vineyards is home to the impeccable Grandale Restaurant. Head Chef Author Clark presents fresh cuisine prepared with locally-sourced ingredients. Carl DiManno is one of the owners and, most importantly, the winemaker at 868 Estate Vineyards in Loudoun County. His interest in wine began many years earlier when work took him out to California. With a background in chemical engineering, Carl has the unique background to understand every part of the winemaking process including the science behind the perfect grapes. In 2004, he established Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyards, where he went on to create award-winning beverages from his carefully maintained vines.
A profile in Epic Virginia reveals his professional accolades. Awards over the years have included double golds at the International Eastern Wine Competition, Best of Show in the Maryland Winemasters Challenge, and Best of Class in the Maryland Governor’s Cup. Additionally, Carla’s wines were the first locally-produced wines to be served at the Kennedy Center’s Roof Terrace Restaurant.
Though 868 Estates Vineyards is one of the newer establishments in the DC region, it’s safe to say that great wines are being produced under the expert eye of Carl DiManno.