WHITE HALL VINEYARDS quickly established itself as a producer of fine wine in Virginia, winning the Virginia industry’s most significant competition ~ the Governor’s cup ~ twice in succession: 1997 & 1998. Today, the winery continues to gain recognition within the state and, with increasing frequency, on a national basis.

Owners Tony and Edith Champ set the tone for the winery’s signature style: a fruit-forward richer taste than is typical in Virginia. The Champs’ preferences were influenced by exploring the California wine industry from its evolutionary stages in the 1960’s through the ‘90’s. White Hall wines, however, are true to the context of Virginia, expressing both the terroir of its estate vineyards and the elegance which is a hallmark of Virginia’s top wines.

The Estate Vineyards were established in 1992 with 6 acres comprised of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. Over time Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Muscat, and Touriga Nacional were added, and more recently, Viognier, Petit Verdot and Petit Manseng, bringing the total plantings to 39 acres.

The Champs selected this Albemarle County site for its combination of open land, glorious scenery, and the local community which strongly supports our growing wine industry. The estate’s 800 foot elevation and constant mountain breezes make this location ideal for world-class vineyards.

Altogether, these vineyards represent approximately 85% if the winery’s total production, with the balance of the grapes coming from top-quality growers.

From a winemaking standpoint, the house style is accomplished by targeting higher than average fruit maturity and aging the majority of lots sur lie. Combining attentive vineyard practices with modern winemaking techniques has resulted in the consistent production of wines of excellence.

Michael Panczak is White Hall's winemaker along with his assistant, Daniel Neumeister. Together they represent part of a newer trend in the Virginia wine industry -- proven winemakers from more established regions coming to Virginia in response to the positive developments which are already underway and, consequently, helping to shape the future of what is becoming a vibrant and dynamic appellation.

Mike’s winemaking background begins in California’s Santa Maria Valley, with initial experience at Qupe and later at Foxen Vineyards. After classes at Davis & Fresno, he completed his Oenology degree at Hancock College in Santa Maria. He also studied Viticulture at the post-graduate level at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo prior to a stint at Bridlewood in Santa Ynez. Mike moved back to his home state of Pennsylvania, producing his first East Coast wines at Eagle’s Crest, where he heard more about what was happening in Virginia.