The Land Defines the Wine
Long before Southwest Mountains Vineyards became a destination for Virginia wine, the land was known as Castalia — a working farm with deep agricultural roots dating back centuries. Generations of stewardship shaped the rolling fields and historic upper barn that still anchor the property today.
In 2013, the estate entered a new chapter when the Manning family undertook a thoughtful restoration of the upper barn, preserving its architectural integrity while returning it to active use. What began as a careful revival of a historic structure evolved into a vision for a world-class Virginia vineyard — one rooted in respect for the land and an unwavering commitment to quality.
Today, Southwest Mountains Vineyards honors that legacy not by replicating the past, but by building upon it — cultivating vines with intention and crafting wines that reflect both heritage and forward-thinking precision.
Nestled in the Monticello AVA near Keswick, Virginia, our vineyards benefit from elevation, mountain breezes, and diverse soils that create natural balance in the vines. Warm days encourage ripeness and concentration, while cool evenings preserve acidity and structure.
Every block is farmed with meticulous care. Vineyard practices are deliberate and measured, focused on producing fruit of clarity and character rather than volume. The goal is simple: allow the terroir — the singular combination of soil, climate, and topography — to speak with authenticity in every vintage.
Nestled in the Monticello AVA near Keswick, Virginia, our vineyards benefit from elevation, mountain breezes, and diverse soils that create natural balance in the vines. Warm days encourage ripeness and concentration, while cool evenings preserve acidity and structure.
Every block is farmed with meticulous care. Vineyard practices are deliberate and measured, focused on producing fruit of clarity and character rather than volume. The goal is simple: allow the terroir — the singular combination of soil, climate, and topography — to speak with authenticity in every vintage.
Our Team
At Southwest Mountains Vineyards, our success is rooted in the passion and expertise of our incredible team. From the vineyard to the tasting room, we are a group of dedicated individuals who bring years of experience in winemaking, hospitality, and a shared love for creating memorable experiences.
PRODUCTION
Led by internationally acclaimed winemaker Boela Gerber, Southwest Mountains Vineyards approaches every vintage with a deep respect for the land and a relentless pursuit of quality. Boela’s decades of experience in South Africa and beyond inform a style that balances elegance and innovation, setting a new standard for Virginia wine and anchoring our vision for the Monticello AVA’s future.
Our production team combines time-honored techniques with innovative practices to craft wines that reflect the beauty and complexity of the Monticello AVA, while our welcoming tasting room staff ensures every visit is as exceptional as the wine itself. Together, we are committed to celebrating the art of winemaking and sharing it with everyone who steps through our doors.
BOELA GERBER
HEAD WINEMAKER
JEREMY MERSCH
ASSISTANT WINEMAKER
PAUL WELDY
CELLAR LEAD
JORDAN KENNEDY
VINEYARD MANAGER
