A Message From Shelly Cook — 11/10/25

Dear Friends,

Every season at Reitano tells a new story — one rooted in family, hard work, and the joy of gathering. As the leaves turn across the Blue Ridge, I find myself reflecting on how far we’ve come and how much beauty there is in watching dreams take shape right here on this land.

This fall marks a special new chapter for us. We now have our very own wine processing plant on-site — a dream years in the making. For the first time, we’re able to harvest, press, and craft our wines entirely here at Reitano, from vine to bottle. Every drop now carries even more of this land’s story — a reflection of the soil, the seasons, and the hands that tend it. It’s one more way we’re keeping things truly local, truly ours, and truly rooted.

Our four new family-style golf simulators are now open and ready for play! They’ve quickly become one of my favorite additions to the tasting room. Whether you’re coming with friends, kids, or coworkers, it’s such a fun way to spend time together — laughter, a little friendly competition, and of course, a good glass of wine or beer close by.

Our Cigar Room is now open — a warm, inviting space designed for those who appreciate the art of slowing down and savoring the moment. The bourbon service will begin toward the end of November, once our updated licensing is finalized. I can’t wait for you to experience it all together — the perfect pairing of craftsmanship and comfort.

And while our dinner and brunch service will start toward the end of November, I’m thrilled for you to meet our chef, Oscar. He continues to amaze us each week with creative specials that tempt the palate and celebrate the best of the Valley. Every dish he dreams up reflects the same care and craftsmanship that define everything we do here.

The vineyard has also been alive with music every weekend — acoustic sets on Fridays, relaxed vineyard vibes on Saturdays, and easy Sunday afternoon tunes that fill the air with joy. There’s something about music drifting through the vines that reminds me why we built all this — to bring people together.

And speaking of gathering, I hope you’ll join us for our Fall Festival on Friday, November 15th from 12 to 5 PM at the new tasting room. It’s one of my favorite events of the season — a day filled with family fun, live music, vendors, hay maze adventures, rides around the property, and mulled wine to keep you warm. Admission is free, and it’s a perfect way to celebrate the beauty of autumn here in the Blue Ridge.

For those who want to stay connected to the heartbeat of Reitano, our Wine Clubs are growing beautifully. The Basic Club is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy our wines each quarter, and the Immersion Club offers something even deeper — private events, early releases, and behind-the-scenes experiences that truly make you part of the vineyard family. These clubs mean more to me than just sharing our wine; they’re a way to preserve this land, honor my family’s legacy, and “save the gravel” for generations to come.

As the seasons shift and the mountain air grows crisp, I hope you’ll make time to come see us. Whether it’s for music, a round of golf, a cigar, a glass of wine, or simply a slow sip by the fire — you’ll always have a place here. Reitano isn’t just a vineyard; it’s a reflection of family, faith, and the beauty of living rooted.

With gratitude and love,

Shelly Lynn Cook

Reitano Vineyards & Brewery