Two Wineries, Big Impact: Delco’s Wine Country

We have nothing but respect for domestic wineries and those around the globe, yet we feel quite content sipping right here in our own backyard. Delco is home to two award-winning wineries, and they’re proof positive that the local wine scene is strong.

We know you’re going to want to check them out (or revisit if you’ve already been), so let’s start with how to make a weekend out of the two wineries that put Delaware County on the wine trail map.

Plan Your Trip:

Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Baxter Photography

First, make a reservation to stay at The Inn at Grace Winery in Glen Mills and check out the event options in case reservations are needed. Choose from 15 different luxury rooms scattered among the Manor house (dating to 1734!) and its cottages. Expect modern amenities in these well-appointed accommodations, from ensuite bathrooms to free Wi-Fi. Ask about the specials, too, including military discounts; fun packages that might feature wine, chocolates, flowers and more; and discounted museum and garden tickets.

Next, book reservations at any number of amazing local restaurants in Glen Mills and Chadds Ford. Make sure to keep an eye on the supper series and other unique events at Grace Winery such as Cigars Under the Stars, Meet the Winemaker and dinners on select holidays. You’ll also want to peruse the events schedule at Penns Woods Winery when planning your weekend, as some events require reservations.

Saturday:

Photo courtesy of Penns Woods Winery

Start at Penns Woods Winery in Chadds Ford. There’s music every weekend from May through early November, plus other must-try options throughout the year. Look for yoga, wine education, first Fridays (open late!), pairings and more.

Or simply swing by for a tasting flight of five, one-ounce pours (go for the upgrade that includes the glass!) in the comfortable and welcoming tasting room. We like to add on a cheese plate, too, which is the perfect afternoon nosh. Note that wines are also available by the glass and by the bottle. Bonus: There’s an outdoor wine bar open Saturday from noon to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4:30 p.m. April through October, weather permitting.

Next, head over to check into your room at The Inn at Grace Winery.

Sunday:

Photo courtesy of Grace Winery

In the morning, stroll over to breakfast — many options are included with your stay, but there’s also a tempting a la carte menu. You’re now ready to face the day! Perhaps you’ll start on Grace Winery’s expansive grounds with a stop in the fitness center, or to play pingpong or billiards. Depending on the season, perhaps you’ll stroll the grounds, try bocce, take a dip in the pool or soak in the hot tub. Still around at lunchtime? There’s can’t-miss light fare in the tasting room from noon to 4 p.m., including cheeseboards, hummus and a daily chef special.

Quick — check your calendar app! You might be due back at Penns Woods Winery for an event or tasting. Wineries have become more family friendly, and this one is no exception: There are kid-centric events around Easter and Halloween, and, in nice weather, plenty of room for kids to play on the grounds outside the tasting room and porch (children are not permitted in the tasting room or patio).

In addition to kids, both wineries allow friendly, well-behaved, leashed pets. View Penns Woods Winery’s pet policy before you go. Grace Winery allows pets in five of its guest rooms, too.

Make it a wine weekend in Delco! Here’s where to find even more about our two wineries.

Grace Winery and The Inn at Grace Winery

50 Sweetwater Rd., Glen Mills, (610) 459-4711, gracewinery.com

Tasting Room Hours:

Monday to Thursday, noon to 3 p.m., reservations required; Friday 4 to 8 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Sweetwater Portraits
  • Grace Winery’s first vines were planted in 2008, with its first vintage in 2009.
  • It won its first awards at the 2018 Pennsylvania Wine Competition, earning a bronze for the 2015 Cabernet Franc and at the 2018 PA Sommelier Judgment, earning an honorable mention for its 2016 1734 Red Blend.
  • It followed up with wins at the 2019 PA Sommelier Judgement with honorable mentions for its 2017 Dragonfly and 2017 Pinot Gris.
  • The winery specializes in dry, Bordeaux-style wines.
  • In addition to wine tasting and by-the-glass options, beer tasting and beer by the glass is available. Seasonal cocktails are served on Friday evenings. Also on Fridays: Happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m.
  • Planning a dinner for 6 to 10 people? Consider the winery’s prix fixe seasonal repast of five courses paired with boutique wines from the estate winery.
  • It also has accommodations for private events and corporate retreats.

Penns Woods Winery

124 Beaver Valley Rd., Chadds Ford, (610) 459-0808, pennswoodsevents.com.

Tasting Room Hours:

Monday to Thursday, noon to 6 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Penns Woods Winery
  • Penns Woods Winery was the first winery to open in Delaware County. It was established in 2001 and its first vintage was ready in 2004.
  • The main focus — and president and winemaker Gino Razzi’s passion — is growing its own grapes to produce premium wines. The focus is on dry, European styles, including many single-varietal wines.
  • The winery has a long history of earning accolades and awards for its wines.
  • There’s a growing wine club that not only provides members with the very best of its offerings but also signature events, prerelease access, discounts, complimentary tastings, a tour with the winemaker and more, depending on membership level.
  • It has the space for private events up to 50 people.

Want to know more about everything Delco? We’re more than just your source for good eats — we’re your source for where to stay, what to do and more in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. We’re the Destination Delco Tourism Bureau, and we’ve got you covered from Philly to the Brandywine. Find us at 1501 N. Providence Rd., Media, PA, 19063; (610) 565-3679 or online.

Nina Malone