It’s bird season at Nassau Vineyards
Each August, Nassau Valley Vineyards near Lewes declares war on birds who love to eat grapes, during a key growing month as harvest nears in September and October. After years of struggling with the birds, protective netting was placed on the vines. Even so, a number of bird-deterrent measures are still in place, including swirling inflatables and broadcast bird sounds to scare away the marauders.
It was international wine writer and jazz singer Peggy Raley-Ward who talked her late father, Bob Raley, into turning part of the family farm into a winery. However, at the time, Delaware law did not allow farm wineries. That didn't deter Peggy, who drafted legislation, lobbied General Assembly members and got a law enacted in 1991.
In October 1993, she and her father started the wine operation. This year marks the 30th year since its founding.
Over the years, Nassau Valley Vineyards has grown into a destination location with a wine shop, wine tastings, an art galley, a Sunday farmers market from mid-May to mid-October, and several rental options for events venues specializing in weddings.
Nassau Valley, nestled on more than six acres between Route 9 and Route 1 just outside Lewes, is Delaware's first and largest winery.
The vineyard grows Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes, which, supplemented with other regional fruit, will be used to create up to 15 wines. The winery has won more than 200 awards.
