Moneta, VA  3/22/2021 — Smith Mountain Lake’s own Hickory Hill Vineyards is celebrating 20 years in business and three medals in the 2021 Virginia Governor’s Cup Wine Competition. The wines were judged as among the best of 544 Virginia wines from over 100 Virginia wineries.

Full Pond 2019 and Mist earned silver medals. Full Pond is a youthful, crisp, dry white wine made from chardonnay with a touch of vidal blanc. Smith Mountain Lake Mist is a semi-dry blend of vidal blanc with a bit of chardonnay. It is light, clean, smooth, and perfect for warm summer days at the lake.

Vidal Blanc 2019 earned a bronze medal. This soon to be released wine was created in celebration of the vineyard’s 20-year anniversary.

“Mist and Vidal Blanc were two of the original six wines we crafted. The Smith Mountain Lake Mist is always a visitor favorite,” said winemaker Wendy Furrow-Scott. She added that the three award-winning wines are among her go-to summer sippers.

Hickory Hill’s outdoor area is now open for tastings and picnics. The indoor tasting room remains closed due to state COVID-19 protocols. April hours are 12-5 pm Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. In May, hours expand to 12-5 pm Wednesday through Sunday.

Visitors are welcome to enjoy tastings and wine by the glass or bottle. Bring a picnic or purchase light fare on premises. Reservations encouraged, especially on rainy days due to limited covered seating.

All Hickory Hill wines are also available for purchase online for local delivery, curbside pickup, or shipping.