Kirkwood Winery & Isaiah Morgan Distillery: A Legacy of Mountain-Made Wines, Spirits & Appalachian Hospitality
Nestled in a scenic rural valley three miles north of Summersville, West Virginia, Kirkwood Winery & Isaiah Morgan Distillery stands as a cherished destination for wine lovers, history seekers, and anyone drawn to authentic Appalachian culture. With roots stretching back to the mid-1980s, Kirkwood holds the distinction of being the first vineyard in its region and remains one of the most beloved and iconic wineries in the Mountain State.
At its heart, Kirkwood Winery celebrates the land and the people who brought it to life. Founder Rodney Facemire, alongside his two sons, first planted grapes on this rugged mountainside in 1984 — an ambitious project that faced nearly immediate hardship when harsh winter temperatures and drought wiped out the initial vineyard. Refusing to be deterred, the family replanted, persevered, and expanded the site into a thriving six-acre vineyard that now yields more than 40 tons of grapes annually and produces over 10,000 gallons of wine each year.
What makes Kirkwood truly unique is not only its heritage and history, but its dedication to crafting wines that reflect the spirit of the Appalachians. From traditional reds and whites to imaginative fruit and specialty wines inspired by local crops and flavors, the winery’s portfolio is as diverse as it is memorable. Visitors will find:
Fruit Wines that capture the vibrant sweetness of blackberry, raspberry, strawberry, peach, and rhubarb.
Vegetable-Inspired Wines, such as dandelion or Appalachian ramp — unexpected but flavorful expressions of the region.
Classic Whites & Reds, including elegant Chardonnay, semi-dry Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot.
Specialty Creations, like Concord Stomp — a festive tribute to the winery’s annual grape stomping festival.
Each bottle tells a story of mountain climate, family perseverance, and craft that is distinctly West Virginian.
But Kirkwood isn’t just about wine. Attached to the winery is the Isaiah Morgan Distillery, a lively testament to Appalachian distilling lore. Known for producing small batches of artisan spirits — including corn whiskey, rye, bourbon, and grappa — the distillery brings to life tales of moonshine and mountain ingenuity. Interestingly, Isaiah Morgan operates with one of the smallest licensed stills in the United States, a quirky but proud distinction that draws visitors from near and far.
Visitors to Kirkwood Winery are encouraged to make the most of every moment on the property:
Wine Tastings & Tours: Explore the vineyards and cellars, learn how each wine is crafted, and enjoy guided tastings that introduce you to the full range of their offerings.
Distillery Experiences: Watch the craft of spirit-making up close and enjoy samples of rye, bourbon, grappa, and other fine West Virginia spirits.
Country Store & Gifts: Beyond beverages, the on-site Country Store offers local jams, jellies, salsas, handcrafted baskets, candles, home decor, and more — perfect for gifts or souvenirs of your mountain visit.
Off-Site Events: Kirkwood participates in festivals and tasting events throughout West Virginia, bringing its wines and spirits to celebrations big and small across the region.
One of the winery’s most cherished traditions is its Annual Wine & Music Fest, a community-wide celebration held each September. Marked by grape-stomping competitions, live music, food, races, and festive activities for all ages, this event brings together locals and travelers alike for a weekend of joy and high-spirited fun. The upcoming 34th Annual Wine & Music Fest runs from September 19–20, 2025, and promises another unforgettable blend of Kentuckian mountain culture and vineyard festivities.
Kirkwood’s appeal extends far beyond wine lovers. Its picturesque setting — with lush vineyards backed by rolling hills and West Virginia’s rugged forested ridges — provides a perfect backdrop for romantic moments, leisurely afternoons, and milestone celebrations. Many couples choose the winery as the venue for weddings and outdoor events, where panoramic views and rustic charm frame memories that last a lifetime.
The winery’s legacy also reflects a broader story of West Virginia’s agricultural evolution. From struggling beginnings through climatic adversity to becoming a focal point of regional tourism, Kirkwood symbolizes resilience, community engagement, and creative spirit. Its team prides itself on making every visitor feel welcomed — whether that means offering expert pairing suggestions, sharing stories of local lore, or simply pouring a glass of wine with a warm Appalachian smile.
Today, the winery stands not just as a place to taste wine, but as a destination experience — one where history, hospitality, craft, and Appalachian culture come together. Whether you’re browsing the country store, sipping a crisp fruit wine on the patio, learning at the distillery, or cheering on grape stompers at the annual festival, Kirkwood Winery & Isaiah Morgan Distillery offers a full-bodied slice of West Virginia’s heart and soul.
