Divine Llama Vineyards

By Daniel Hoey

Chardonel is a hybrid grape which was originally developed in New York State in the 1950s and is a cross of Chardonnay and Seyval Blanc.  It is a sturdy, late ripening grape which produces large clusters, and can thrive in more challenging wine-growing climates.  It is typically barrel fermented and results in a full-bodied dry wine.

Tom Hughes and Michael West met at Virginia Tech, where both were studying to be architects.  Their friendship continued and resulted in a partnership in architecture in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.  Michael developed an interest in llamas and Tom had long dreamed of opening a winery; in 2006 they, along with their wives Julia and Patricia purchased 77 scenic acres in the Yadkin Valley AVA.  Their tasting room opened in spring 2009.

All About The Grape visited Divine Llama in the summer.  During our time together, Tom and Michael explained how they chose the different varietals they planted.  Michael said, “We took a risk in planting Chardonel . . . but we’re going to be small and we want to be special . . . it has paid off as we sell four times as much Chardonel from our tasting room as any of our other wines.” 

Chardonel has great appeal as a food wine, working very well with heavier seafood dishes and also with chicken with cream sauces.