A Memorable Day at Fox Run: Wine Tasting and Culinary Delights in a Historic Setting

Jul 2
3 min read

Visiting Fox Run Winery offers more than just a chance to taste wine. It’s an experience that combines the beauty of estate vineyards, the craft of winemaking, and a thoughtfully prepared meal in a unique historic setting. This day at Fox Run was a journey through flavors and stories, beginning with a detailed tour and ending with a seasonally inspired lunch that perfectly complemented the wines.

Hand holding a glass of rosé over a grassy parking lot, with cars, lake, and big clouds under a bright blue sky. — A glass of Dry Rosé welcomes visitors at Fox Run, with a scenic view of the parking lot and distant lake under a bright, cloud-dotted sky.

Exploring the Estate Vineyards and Winemaking Facility

The day started with an in-depth walking tour of the Fox Run estate vineyards and winemaking facility. Walking through rows of grapevines under the open sky, it was easy to appreciate the care and attention that goes into growing each varietal. The guide shared insights about the soil, climate, and techniques that shape the grapes’ character.

Moving into the winemaking facility, the process of turning grapes into wine became clear. From crushing and fermenting to aging in barrels, every step was explained with passion and precision. This behind-the-scenes look deepened the appreciation for the wines that would follow.

Rows of wooden wine barrels stacked in a bright warehouse, with labeled boxes and a bag of corks in front. — Wine Aging in Barrels

Exclusive Wine Sampling with the Winemaker

During the tour, the winemaker led an exclusive wine tasting focused on Fox Run’s future wines coming out. Each wine was presented with stories about its origin, the unique qualities of the vintage, and tips on how to best enjoy it.

Tour group listens in a stainless-steel winery cellar, surrounded by large silver tanks and an orange ladder. — Visitors gather around the head of marketing during a guided tour of the wine-making facility, surrounded by large stainless steel fermentation tanks.

A Seasonally Inspired Lunch in the Historic Barrel Room

The highlight of the day was the lunch served in Fox Run’s historic barrel room. The atmosphere combined rustic charm with elegance, creating a cozy space to enjoy the meal. The menu featured locally sourced ingredients, thoughtfully paired with the wines tasted earlier.

The tasting included a variety of whites and reds, each with distinct aromas and flavors. The 2022 Reserve Kaiser Vineyard Chardonnay stood out with its crispness and subtle fruit notes. The 2023 Traminette offered a refreshing floral character, while the Arctic Fox paired beautifully with cheese and honey. The 2023 Lake Dana Riesling and 2024 Semi-Dry Riesling showcased the winery’s skill in balancing sweetness and acidity. The 2023 Lemberger added a rich, savory note to the lineup. The tasting concluded with a Ruby Port, a perfect finish to the wine experience.

Menu Highlights

House-made Sourdough Bread with Kremhield Dairy butter set the tone with simple, fresh flavors.
Poached Steelhead Trout came with Gruner Ver Jus cream and pickled red onions, paired with the 2022 Reserve Kaiser Vineyard Chardonnay. The creamy sauce and acidity of the wine complemented the fish perfectly.
Watermelon Gazpacho was a refreshing palate cleanser, matched with the floral 2023 Traminette.
Old Chatham Camambertha Cheese & Howley Summer Honey paired with Arctic Fox created a sweet and savory balance.
North African Spiced Chicken Slider featured house-made pita bread and harissa sauce, paired with the crisp 2023 Lake Dana Riesling.
Artisan Meats & House-made Pickles offered a savory contrast, accompanied by the 2024 Semi-Dry Riesling.
Grilled Veggie Orzo Salad with zucchini, onions, squash, red pepper, eggplant, and balsamic dressing was paired with the 2023 Lemberger, adding a smoky depth.
Strawberry Crumb Cake & Lemon Glazed Shortbread finished the meal, paired with the rich Ruby Port.

Each dish was thoughtfully crafted to highlight seasonal ingredients and complement the wine pairings. The balance of flavors and textures made the lunch a memorable part of the visit.

Wine tasting board with cheeses, bread, salami, chutney, pickles and several wine glasses on a Fox Run Vineyards table. — Picture of the Great Food and Wine we had !

Why This Experience Stands Out

Fox Run’s combination of a vineyard tour, expert-led wine tasting, and a seasonally inspired lunch offers a complete sensory experience. The historic barrel room adds character and a sense of place that enhances the meal. The focus on local ingredients and summer varietals reflects a commitment to quality and authenticity.

This experience is ideal for wine lovers who want to deepen their understanding of winemaking and enjoy food that celebrates the season. It also suits those looking for a relaxed yet refined outing in a beautiful setting.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Fox Run

Spending a day at Fox Run Winery is more than just tasting wine. It’s about connecting with the land, the craft, and the flavors that define the region. The detailed tour, the winemaker’s insights, and the carefully paired lunch create a lasting impression.