Red Heifer Winery

Red Heifer Winery is located in Smithburg, Maryland and owned by Kevin and Yvonne Ford. It was formerly Naylor's Peach Orchard which was owned by Kevin's grandparents since 1945. The naming of the winery originates from a story dating back to the initial negotiations. Kevin's great grandfather saw a cow grazing on the hillside and said  something along the lines of "throw in that red heifer and you've got yourself a deal!" They started as a peach and apple farm, then they were a dairy and hay farm, grew various vegetables and then made the decision to plant the grapes. Nestled atop a large hill with fabulous views of the mountain, this is a bit of a destination winery. They cleverly offer reservations for cabanas in the spring and summer and igloos in the winter so you can comfortably be outside enjoying both the views and the wine year-round. Our favorites from here over the years have been their vidal blanc, cabernet franc and petit verdot. We did a bottle review podcast on their 2017 petit verdot and included it in our vertical tasting with food pairings. Check both of those out! They have named their Edna Mae Chardonnay after their grandmother, whom it is rumored to have needed her  blessing to start this winery so thanks to her! The petit verdot, especially after it was aged a number of years, was decanted for 15 minutes and then had great complexity. We got aromas of blackberry, vanilla, lavender, mint, thyme, smoke, white pepper and anise. On the palate was more dark fruit including plum and currant, with mellowed tannin and medium plus acid. It was aged in French and American oak and won silver at the 2020 Maryland Governor's Cup. It paired best during our tasting with barbecue short ribs and gouda stuffed mushrooms. They are also known for their wine slushies and have recently released their first ever albarino. It is a bit of a hike getting out to this winery for us but it is always worth the drive.