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Volume 43 Issue 10 | October 2026 | middleburglife.com

OUR FAVORITE FALL LOOKS

VIRGINIA WINE ISSUE THE

ALL ABOUT ACCORD VINEYARDS Subscribe Here

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$5,900,000 $2,700,000 Country home, with renovations in 1999 LynnFrench Wiley. 540.454.1527 Helen MacMahon 540.454.1930

$3,900,000 GERMANIA FARM REED STREET Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905 ALDIE, VIRGINIA

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ac ahon 20.3 acres on New Road, Aldieelen | Minutes to Middleburg, 4BR, 4.5BA, built in 2019 | High-end finishes Creighton Farms & Dulles Airport | Zoned AR2 – ideal throughout | Gourmet kitchen: Wolf, Sub-Zero, for horse farm, country inn, or estate | 5BR / 4BA frame Miele | Family room with fireplace & 9’ ceilings | & brick contemporary |High ceilings, 2 fireplaces, Custom millwork & plantation shutters | Front light-filled interiors | 4-stall barn with tack room | 4-car porch and rear deck | Detached garage and garage, storage building | Inground pool | Private setting private rear parking | High-speed internet | with Bull Run Mountain views Walk to shops, dining & town amenities $2,400,000 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905 Brian MacMahon 703.609.1868

$1,975,000 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905 Brian MacMahon 703.609.1868

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Circa 1875 farmhouse, fully restored | 3 BR, 2 BA,

Located in the heart of Historic Unison, 3 BR historic home,

former post office | Covered back porch, spacious deck & fenced longtime family property Plains | 1 fireplace | Stucco-over-frame; A remarkable property located within a private backyard |Ideal for entertaining, gardening & pets | Renovated bath | 9.50 acres, open and rolling | Mountain w/walk-in shower ||New gas range, refrigerator, washer & dryer ecently views; surrounded enclave minutes town Stone and stucco by largejust conservation easement from |Large attic w/ potential for additional living space | Exceptional farms | Natural spring on property (possible pond site) main nge manor house with level master suite 7 workshop, 4-car garage w/ car lift-sold “as is” |Garage ideal for| cars, | Historic barn and family cemetery | studio, hobbies or storage | Community center directly across the Family connection to Mosby’sBR Rangers| 5 stone hs, additional FP Beautiful gardens, street | Close|to farms, wineries, breweries & hiking trails |A rare opportunity to own a piece of Virginia village history $875,000salt water pool, cabana, water terraces, carriage house & $745,000 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905 dio, stable with 2 paddocks | Lovely finishes throughout Lynn Wiley. 540.454.1527 Brian MacMahon 703.609.1868 d & sweeping lawn to private trails to Goose Creek | 31 acres | Private, elegant & convenient middleburg life.com • OCTOBER 2026

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Two charming cottages on 10 acres | Two spring-fed ponds | Renovated main cottage with gourmet kitchen, fireplace, 1 bedroom & 2 full baths | Separate 2 bedroom cottage offers exceptional privacy for visitors or multigenerational living | Stone wall, terraced patios | Ideal weekend getaway, full-time residence, or family compound | Peaceful natural setting with abundant wildlife and timeless charm | Rare opportunity

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FIERY RUN ROAD

RECTORTOWN, VIRGINIA LINDEN, VIRGINIA 37.59 beautifully wooded acres offering exceptional privacy

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and seclusion | Gently rising terrain with an elevated potential Circ 17 acres of rolling pasture land in| Surrounded the village building site by large tracts | Conveniently located with quick, easy access to Route 66 | Mature timber and rebu of Rectortown | Convenient abundant to both Routes 50 wildlife create a hunter’s and outdoor enthusiast’s paradise | Ideal for a private retreat, weekend escape, or future & 66 | Newly renovated | Private setting withserving as an easement beam homesite | Established drive currently for two neighboring parcels | A combination of natural beauty, Bar magnificent mountain views | 4 privacy, bedrooms, recreation, and convenience $700,000 $447,321 2 bedr 4 full bath, 1 half bath, 2 fireplaces | Heated Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905 Paul MacMahon 703.609.1905 multip pool & spa | 2 bedroom guest house | Brian MacMahon 703.609.1868 Brian MacMahon 703.609.1868 ou Large shed & 2-car garage

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Artwork by Palmer Smith

Artwork by Palmer Smith OCTOBER 2026

•

middleburglife.com

INTERNS William Anderson Clare Gifford

Accord Vineyards in Linden for our Virginia Wine issue. For the full story and more of her photos, turn to page 12.

ADVERTISING SALES Jamie Null | jamie@middleburglife.com Jennifer Richards | jennifer@middleburglife.com Andrea Ryder | andrea@middleburglife.com

ADVERTISE IN MIDDLEBURG LIFE Greenhill Media, LLC P.O. Box 328 | Middleburg, VA 20118-0328 540.687.5950 | info@middleburglife.com

ACCOUNTS ADMINISTRATOR Joanne Maisano

O C T. 2 0 2 6 middleburglife.com

PUBLISHER: Greenhill Media, LLC EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kaitlin Hill | kaitlin@middleburglife.com COPY EDITOR & DIGITAL ASSISTANT Susan Stark

DESIGNER: Elisa Hernandez PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Nicky Marshok ON THE COVER Thea Green, Forbes Condon, Reid O’Connor with Tweed, and Rodrick Rigden enjoy a couple glasses of Slater Run wine while relaxing at Welbourne Inn. We take a closer look at their outfits, provided by Country Classics, on page 6 and chat with Slater Run Vineyards in a wine FAQ on page 10. Photo by Caroline Gray. ON THIS PAGE Middleburg Life photographer Sherri Holdridge spent a misty September morning photographing

All editorial matter is fully protected and may not be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. All unsolicited manuscripts and photos must be accompanied by return postage; the publisher assumes no responsibility. Middleburg Life reserves the right to reject any advertising. Distributed in Aldie, Alexandria, Boyce, Centreville, Delaplane, Front Royal, Great Falls, Haymarket, Leesburg, Manassas, Marshall, Middleburg, Millwood, Paris, Purcellville, The Plains, Rectortown, Tysons, Upperville, Vint Hill, Warrenton, Washington, D.C., and Winchester. FIND US ON:

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LAURA FARRELL Senior Vice President Founder of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty Ladies Polo Team m +1 540 395 1680 | lfarrell@ttrsir.com | @laura.a.farrell

Look Up Farm | 7316 Old Carters Mill Road, The Plains SOLD | $8,750,000 Co-Listed with Daniel Heider

Wheatland Farm | 15158 Berlin Turnpike, Purceville Offered at $8,400,000 Co-Listed with Theo Adamstein

Piccola Toscana | 2525 Gibson Court, Delaplane Offered at $7,900,000

Fair Oaks | 5352 Dixons Mill Road, Marshall Offered at $3,865,000

Knightsbridge Estates Lot 18A | Loudoun County Offered at $3,999,000 Knightsbridge-Estates.com

Oak Hollow | 7263 Little River Lane, The Plains SOLD | $3,250,000 Co-Listed with Lisa Abeel | Represented Seller & Purchaser

© TTR Sotheby’s International Realty. All Rights Reserved. The Sotheby’s International Realty trademark is licensed and used with permission. Each Sotheby’s International Realty office is independently owned and operated, except those operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc. TTR Sotheby’s International Realty fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

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CONTRIBUTORS Shannon Ayres is a Reston-based freelance photographer. His work has appeared in Arlington, Chesapeake Life, Northern Virginia, Virginia Business, and USA Today magazines. He has an MFA in fine art photography from San Francisco’s Academy of Art University. His editorial work can be seen at sdayres.com.

Heidi Baumstark has been writing for several lifestyle magazines and newspaper publications since 2005, specializing in history-related articles highlighting Virginia’s Piedmont. She has been with Middleburg Life since 2014. Heidi hopes to inspire readers to pause and consider the people, places, and events that have shaped the story of our local history.

Michael Butcher is the owner of Butcher Photography. Originally from Christchurch, New Zealand, he resides in Springfield, Virginia, with his family. For the past 15 years, Michael has specialized in portraiture, event, and editorial photography. When not behind the lens, he enjoys gardening and swimming. More of Michael’s work can be found at butcherphotography.com.

Caroline Gray is a D.C.-based conservation and freelance photographer. A Virginia native and MBA graduate from the University of Virginia, her work blends a love for exploration, nature, and horses with her fashion background. When not behind the camera, Caroline enjoys hiking with her Labrador, Captain, visiting her retired horse, Cleverly, and exploring new restaurants in Washington, D.C.

Laticia Headings is grateful to call Middleburg home. She discovered Middleburg by attending the first annual Middleburg Film Festival in 2013 and has come back to the event every year since as a volunteer and attendee. Laticia is the founder of Latitude Media and has 23 years of experience as a producer, writer, and camerawoman for television (Discovery, National Geographic), and for the documentary film “Everest: A Climb for Peace.”

Diane Helentjaris chose Loudoun as her “forever home” in 1990. A former clinical physician and public health administrator, she has returned to her humanities roots. Diane’s latest book, “I Ain’t Afraid — The World of Lulu Bell Parr, Wild West Cowgirl,” is a rollicking biography. Her novel “The Indenture of Ivy O’Neill” won the 2024 Maryland Writers’ Association novel competition in the historical/romance category.

Sarah Hickner is the author of the award-winning Christian memoir “Finding Gideon” and the novel “All the Things That Come Between Us.” A lifelong equestrian and storyteller, she writes about faith, family, and the beauty of life in Virginia horse country. Sherri Holdridge is a freelance photographer based in the D.C. area. An avid equestrian, she finds herself drawn and connected to the world of equine photography. Though she spends a lot of time with the horses, her portfolio also reflects her love of travel, nature, and portraiture. Sherri’s photography has been published in various magazines and exhibited in galleries around the world. Her work reflects both her passion and commitment to storytelling through the camera lens. More of her work can be found at sherriholdridgephotography.com. Bill Kent’s journalism has appeared in more than 40 national and regional publications including The Washington Post, Art & Antiques, Philadelphia Magazine, Baltimore Magazine, New Jersey Monthly, and The Hunt. A former correspondent for The New York Times, he taught writing and journalism at the University of Pennsylvania, Rutgers, and Temple universities, and is the author of seven novels, a Fodor’s Guide, and a history of Atlantic City. When not writing, he enjoys walking his westies on Washington Street. Gracie Savage is a local photographer who grew up in the village of Aldie and has been photographing local weddings, portraits, and events since 2016. Her passion began when she received her first camera in middle school and she continued to study the craft in high school and in college. She was a photographer at Georgetown University for over three years and joined Middleburg Life as a contributor in the spring of 2022.

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OCTOBER 2026

Lia Hobel is a freelance journalist, known for her blog, Uplift Loudoun. In addition to her work for Middleburg Life, Lia writes periodically for online platforms with articles appearing on GOBankingRates, Forbes, Huffington Post, and Yahoo! She is a Loudoun 40 Under 40 honoree and a Certified Tourism Ambassador for the county. Dulcy B. Hooper and her husband Richard moved to the country from Washington, D.C., nearly 10 years ago. Shortly thereafter, both began writing occasional articles for Middleburg Life. Dogs are a big part of the Hoopers’ lives and several of Dulcy’s earlier articles focused on the couple’s Chinese crested powderpuffs! Beth Rasin graduated from Middlebury College, where she studied nonfiction creative writing. She worked as a writer and editor at The Chronicle of the Horse for more than 25 years, including 10 years as the president and executive editor. As a freelancer, she’s contributed since 2015 to Middleburg Life, as well as Northern Virginia Magazine, Blue Ridge Outdoors, the former Loudoun Magazine, and many others. She lives in Hume, where she and her husband and daughter run a boarding facility for retired horses. She enjoys running, hiking, and spending time with her adopted dogs and cats. Shayda Windle is a freelance writer covering the arts, people, and places that make Hunt Country so special. Her work has been featured in Plein Air Magazine, the Fairfax County Times, and several online media outlets. In her spare time, you can find her enjoying the great outdoors and exploring Northern Virginia with her husband and two children.

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Meet Kerrie Jenkins, Middleburg’s Resident Real Estate Expert. Buying or selling a home is one of the most significant steps in life, and Kerrie’s mission is to make that journey smooth, rewarding, and stress-free. As a long-time Middleburg resident, she brings deep local market knowledge and a genuine passion for her community to every transaction. She works tirelessly to match buyers with thier ideal neighborhood and help sellers achieve top value for their homes. If you’re thinking about making a move, visit homesbykerrie.com. SALE

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Corcoran McEnearney, Middleburg Real Estate | 10 E Washington Street | Middleburg, VA 20117 | 540.687.6321 | corcoranmce.com ©2026 Corcoran Group LLC. All rights reserved. Corcoran® and the Corcoran Logo are registered service marks owned by Corcoran Group LLC. Corcoran Group LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated.

OCTOBER 2026

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FASHION WORTH FALLING FOR BY COUNTRY CLASSICS Written by Kaitlin Hill | Photos by Caroline Gray

utumn has arrived in Hunt Country and with it, cooler temperatures, changing leaves, and — perhaps most exciting of

Colors play an important role too. When

sics team weaves into their fabrics. “The colors in

thinking about what to wear to local equestrian

Virginia throughout the year are the best source,”

events, Diane insists, “Don’t wear black and sti-

Diane explains. “Every time I get in the car and

all — fall events. Between the Virginia Fall Races at Glenwood Park, the Middleburg Film Festival,

lettos.” Her husband, Colin, interjects, “Don’t be

drive down Route 50, there is an extreme vari-

a blot on the landscape.”

ation of green on the trees, on the bushes, on

and opportunities to tailgate, apple pick, winery hop, and more, there is no time like the present to invest in an updated wardrobe. However, when considering what to wear, one might heed the advice of English fellwalker and guidebook author Alfred Wainwright, who in his 1973 guidebook “Coast to Coast” stated, "There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” Mother-and-son team Diane and Rod Rigden of Country Classics would tend to agree, but add that you can dress for weather and comfort, and look good doing it. When asked for their thoughts on autumnal attire, the duo offers a plethora of sage advice and stylish ensembles. Rod says, “Due to our area’s venerable heritage of foxhunting, horse racing, and other traditional country pursuits, there have always been strong ties to the United Kingdom, and our unique local style reflects that. Especially in colder months, British country clothing is perfect for keeping us comfortable while looking appropriate.” Diane adds, “You can’t go wrong with tweed. Tweed is rain or shine. It’s a natural fiber, it’s flexible, it’s comfortable, durable, breathable, water-resistant. There’s a reason why it’s traditional — because it works.” Rod and Diane Rigden outside their shop. Right page: For the details on all the fall looks featured here, visit MiddleburgLife.com.

middleburglife.com

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OCTOBER 2026

Speaking of the landscape, the colors of Hunt

everything — a thousand different greens. And

Country often inform the hues the Country Clas-

Classics | Page 8

OCTOBER 2026

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middleburglife.com

Diane points

all the stops. However, the suit can be worn as

to a specific tweed

separates; mixing and matching with other items

they have on of-

from a gentleman’s wardrobe creates a myriad of

fer. “It’s a brown

options for fall outfits.”

tweed with a co-

He continues, “There is no reason ladies can’t

balt blue and very

have the same versatility afforded to them as a

light lilac. If you

gentleman with his sport coat. This is the reason

have a dark fab-

our ladies’ two- and three-button sport coats are

ric, you need to

always popular. Designed, cut, and manufactured

give it some life.

specifically for ladies, these tweed coats can be

You need a good

dressed up with a skirt and silk scarf or worn ca-

balance.”

sually with jeans.”

Rod

Specifically, Rod highlights the Glen coat, an

“With so much

evolved car coat for women that is designed to

variety in pat-

be worn daily and utilizes a fabric he and his as-

terns, colors, and

sociate Thea Green developed last year. He also

weight, tweed al-

calls out the Harriet jacket, which is based on old

lows a person to

military designs.

express their per-

For both men and women, “a good wool or

sonal taste at the

cashmere sweater is a must. The extra insulating

same time.”

mid-layer can save the day when it gets cold.”

While almost

Outfits can be further refined and inclement

everyone can ap-

weather tackled with accessories. “A silk scarf al-

preciate a pretty

ways elevates a ladies’ outfit. The same scarf will

color palette, put-

also add a level of warmth and protection in in-

ting the pieces of

clement weather,” Rod shares.

an outfit together

And mother and son both emphasize the im-

can present more

portance of “practical and sensible shoes,” as Di-

of a challenge —

ane puts it. “Going to the races is all about stand-

especially in cool-

ing in a field all day. You definitely want to wear

Classics | From page 6

er weather when more layers are required and at

a bush that might have had a green leaf in the

events with an unspoken dress code.

summertime turns into a red russet in the fall. It’s beautiful.” Rod expands, “I love adding fall colors like oranges, reds, and tans.” Country Classics on a lovely autumn afternoon.

adds,

middleburglife.com

•

OCTOBER 2026

comfortable shoes.” From new jackets and elegant accessories to

For men, Rod says, “The men’s three-piece

traditional suits and more modern cuts — all

suits are ideal for the higher echelons of fall

made in the U.K. — Country Classics has ev-

events like an NSA-sanctioned race, especially

erything one needs to dress comfortably for fall

the Gold Cup, where the crowd loves to pull out

while still looking fashionable and authentic. ML

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Wine FAQ: You Asked, Experts Answered Written by Clare Gifford

ach October, we celebrate wine month by highlighting the people, places, and pours behind Hunt Country’s finest wine. This year, we turned to Sydney Smith at Greenhill Vineyards in Middleburg and Preston Thomas of Slater Run Vineyards in Upperville to answer questions our readers have asked over the years and a few we’d like to know more about ourselves. ML: What is the best way to store an opened bottle of red wine? Smith: Some people use the cork, a wine stopper, or a Vacu Vin. The less space for air in the bottle, the better. Thomas: If a pump isn’t available, sealing with a cork/stopper is sufficient for a couple of days. In my experience, with bolder and more tannic reds, not pumping out the air actually makes the wine taste better the next day! ML: Why are whites served chilled? Smith: Many white wines are produced to be refreshing with more delicate aromas, which chilling to 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit helps achieve for those lighter, crisp wines. Thomas: Whites are served chilled so that the flavor compounds do not volatilize too quickly. Since white wines are made by pressing the juice out and removing skins, there are a finite amount of delicate chemical precursors to be fermented and converted, so serving them chilled preserves

those aroma compounds. ML: Is it possible to keep leftover Champagne bubbly? If so, how? Thomas: It is possible to keep sparkling wines carbonated by using a sparkling wine stopper… I’ve also flirted with the idea of using a SodaStream or something similar to reintroduce CO2 into a flat sparkling wine, but this is merely a nerdy theory I’ve had and I don’t think you could get the pressures required. ML: How soon before serving should I decant my wine? Smith: Tannins and age are the biggest factors for decanting, but start with 15 to 30 minutes before and taste in those same intervals until you think it has improved to your liking. ML: Is a $200 bottle of wine really better than a $20 bottle? Smith: It all depends! Whichever wine you prefer is the one that is better to you! Thomas: At the expense of seeming snobby, yes! The differences between a $200 bottle and a $20 bottle are fruit sourcing (often better vineyard locations and single vineyard/row selections), new French oak barrels that provide elegance and finesse, more human inputs throughout fermentation and aging, and packaging costs. ML: Where do wines get their “other flavors”

(like red fruit, floral, or even black pepper) from? Smith: There are many factors that create flavor profiles in a wine, from the varietal itself to the yeast used during fermentation to the aging process. For example, Cabernet Franc inherently has chemical compounds in the grape that present as black pepper. ML: What is the appropriate way to hold a wine glass and does it depend on the type of wine? Thomas: The appropriate way to hold a wine glass is by the stem. This is so that the palm of your hand does not warm up the wine. Back to my earlier comment about serving temperatures, warmer wine will cause the aroma/flavor compounds to volatilize too quickly and the wine will not present as intended. So, pinkies up! ML: What advice would you give to someone just starting their wine drinking journey? Smith: Don’t get overwhelmed. Find something you like, figure out what you like about it, try similar wines, and take notes! Thomas: The best way to learn about wine and begin your journey into wine is to open your mind up to limitless curiosity… At its very core, wine is just fermented grape juice that we do really cool things with, so pretension should not be involved. ML

Left: Greenhill grapes and wine. Photo courtesy of Greenhill Vineyards. Right: Two bottles of Slater Run Vineyards wine. Photo by Caroline Gray.

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OCTOBER 2026

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OCTOBER 2026

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WINE ACCORDING to the DARVILLS Written by Kaitlin Hill

“W

e kept coming back to Accord. It’s all about agreement, connection, coming together. That’s what we’re doing in terms of wine, location, connections that are made here in the tasting room and in the vineyard,” shares Amanda Darvill, owner of Accord Vineyards in Linden. Accord is the new name, brand, and direction for Fox Meadow Vineyards, a long-loved winery that opened in 2006. After a career in communications with a side quest to Le Cordon Bleu in London and Paris to study pastry, Darvill and her retired Air Force

husband, Whiticar, took over the site in 2022. For nearly five years, they have made “small, incremental changes.” Darvill explains, “We wanted to stay true to everything the previous owners had created and honor and continue that. They chose a beautiful site, built a wonderful property and vineyard, and created something amazing.” But now, 20 years on from the original opening, the Darvills are “creating a new chapter for it,” she says. “We want to take it to the next level. “We are taking the tasting room experience in a different direction,” Darvill continues. Instead of bar service and asking guests to bus their own

Accord Vineyards from above. Photo courtesy of Accord Vineyards.

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tables, Accord’s patrons will enjoy table service, an updated ambiance, and curated food and wine pairing events. The aim of these changes is to create a “calm escape” for locals and vacationers in the area alike. Beyond new furnishings in the tasting room, Accord also has updated its age requirements. Darvill explains, “We decided to change the family policy to teenage and above in the tasting room. We have a picnic area where we welcome families, but we want the tasting room to be an adult environment.” She continues, “We want it to be According | Page 13

According | From page 12 a getaway, because ultimately when you come to a vineyard, that is what you are trying to do. We have a lot of people say that they come in and the view from the deck lowers their blood pressure.” The elevated experience applies to the views and the vines, too. “We are known for our view,” Darvill shares. “We are the highest-elevation vineyard in Northern Virginia … at over 1,800 feet.” The team at Accord is taking full advantage of their unique positioning, having purchased an additional 50 acres in the last few years directly next to their vineyard. Grapes grown in this location will be a focus of their wine program moving forward. “We’re really hyper-focused on our Blue Mountain site,” Darvill says. As for what the grapes produce, “We are

known for our crisp, refreshing whites. Our menu has a lot of variations of Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio.” Darvill adds, “I’m most excited about the fact we produced a Champagne-method sparkling Chardonnay for the first time from the 2023 vintage. That was in the works for a while.” They are also preparing to release their 2024 reds in 2027. “I am really excited for those,” Darvill shares. And they are planting new varieties, including Pinot Noir and Grüner Veltliner, to be enjoyed in a couple of years. Their wine has garnered impressive accolades, too. “We got some recognition for our Vidal Blanc recently from the Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition. We got a gold medal and best in that category.” They also received two gold medals in the Virginia Governor’s Cup Wine Competition. For those new to Accord or looking to experience their wine in a different way, Darvill says

they are continuing to evolve their food and wine pairing experiences — something that also influenced the new name. “The phrase for food and wine pairing in French is ‘accord mets et vins,’” Darvill notes. “With my culinary background, I am very passionate about food and wine pairings.” The Paired Accordingly events are monthly, themed, and include six different wines with six bites. Details about Accord’s upcoming events can be found on its website. Despite the changes, the Darvills remain committed to high-quality hospitality. “We’re trying to elevate the experience and surprise people … but we still want to be extremely welcoming.” She concludes, “I always remind my team that I don’t want what we’re doing to be just about the wine. I want to create an experience for our guests. We want people to feel like this is their winery.” ML

Left: Amanda and Whiticar Darvill. Middle: Grapes hanging from a vine. Right: Accord Vineyards’ award-winning Vidal Blanc. Photos by Sherri Holdridge.

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Middleburg – Stunning 3 BR, 3 BA, French Country home. Gourmet kitchen, dramatic foyer, luxurious primary suite, covered patio. 2 car garage. Minutes to wineries, downtown D.C. within an hour.

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Middleburg - Move in ready 3 BRs, 3 BAs home on a quiet back street. Fully renovated in 2020 and meticulously cared for. Finished walk-up basement and a 1-car attached garage. Walk into town.

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THOMAS & TALBOT ESTATE PROPERTIES 2 South Madison St. Middleburg, VA 20117 | Office: 540-687-6500 | thomasandtalbot.com

Offers subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdrawal without notice. Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not so warranted nor is it otherwise guaranteed.

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BOURBON BOTTLES FIND NEW LIFE Written by Kaitlin Hill | Photos by Gracie Savage

oet, essayist, and civil rights activist Dr. Maya Angelou once said, “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use it, the more you have.” For those in Hunt Country — like the team at Middleburg Life — who have had the good fortune of working with Hamilton-based photographer Gracie Savage, this saying rings especially true of her many talents and ability to find and capture the beauty in all things. Her latest endeavor is no exception. When her husband, Dan, started to collect

the bottle thickness, and you really have to drill carefully. With some of the bottles, it has actually taken me 20 to 30 minutes to drill the hole.” Then comes the hardware. Savage cuts a metal rod to match the length of the bottle, attaches it to the base of the bottle, and then fills the bottle with sand. Next, the light socket and light bulb are installed. While one might think the drilling and electrical wiring are complicated, the final touch might be the most taxing. Savage says, “One thing

“I loved the idea of giving an item a second life or another purpose.” – Savage and enjoy bourbon in 2022, Savage’s creative wheels began to spin. “I started setting aside bottles in the garage and told myself one day I was going to turn some of them into lamps,” she says. “I loved the idea of giving an item a second life or another purpose.” She continues, “This past summer I finally reached out to our family friend Tom Santmyer and asked if he could show me the ropes. Tom and his wife, Debbie, own Village Antiques.… Tom had made a beautiful lamp for me out of a wine bottle called ‘Grace’ years prior and I always looked at it on my desk in admiration.” The process of transforming a liquor bottle into a lamp, Savage explains, starts with drilling a hole into the bottom of the bottle. Easier said than done. “This can take a while depending on Top: Gracie Savage. Bottom: A completed lamp.

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I have found is that finding lampshades is difficult because they need to be the right size and shape to work with the bottle — there’s such a wide variety of bottles!” She continues, “[Sourcing] quality lampshades that are sold individually and that are the right size and shape for a bottle is tricky!” Despite the challenges, there is — literally — a light at the end of the tunnel. When asked what the most rewarding part of the process is, Savage says, “I would say switching the light on after putting everything together, especially since a crucial part of the process is properly assembling the light socket.” She adds, “When I have gifted them, seeing the reactions of friends and family members is also very rewarding. People really appreciate something handmade!” Second | Page 17

“When I have gifted them, seeing the reactions of friends and family members is also very rewarding.” – Savage

Second | From page 16 She is currently working through her own collection, but for those looking to light up their own lives with a special bottle, Savage does take commissions. “If someone has a certain empty bottle at home and wants it turned into a lamp, I am happy to do that for them,” she shares. Whether a bourbon lover, recycling enthusiast, or just someone looking for that special piece to complete a room, Savage welcomes anyone to reach out directly to secure one of her bourbon

bottle lamps. “I look forward to putting smiles on people’s faces when they get one in their hands, find the perfect place for it in their home, and know that it was put together just down the street or in the next town over from them.” ML For more information from Gracie Savage, you can connect with her by emailing graciewithersphoto@ gmail.com or by visiting @graciew.photography on Instagram.

Top: Savage’s bottle collection. Bottom left: The necessary materials. Bottom right: Another project done.

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LOCAL COUPLE PLANS ITALIAN GETAWAYS Written by Shayda Windle

taly is about much more than checking famous sights off a list for Lindsay Brancato and her fiancé, Fabrizio Serpicelli, of The Plains, Virginia. Whether lingering over a meal, wandering through a market, sharing a bottle of wine with friends, or simply slowing down enough to notice the life happening around you, they believe Italy is a place to be experienced — not just visited. That philosophy is at the heart of the couple’s latest venture, Sapore di Vita Italiana, which, translated into English, means “taste of Italian life.” They created the travel business to offer guests a more intimate way to experience Italy, with itineraries built around food, wine, culture, and the connections that make a place memorable. Serpicelli, born and raised in Rome, spent more than 25 years in the city’s restaurant industry and brings an insider’s knowledge of its people, food, and wine. For the past three years, he has been part of the team at Café Milano in Washington, D.C. Brancato offers a complementary perspective. A clinical psychologist focused on the mind-body connection and certified in the psychology of eating, her work has given her a particular interest in the relationship between food, culture, and everyday life. “Fabrizio knows the Italy you won’t necessarily find in a guidebook. He understands the people, the wine, the hidden places — he’s opened a world to me I never would have known as a tourist, and now we want to give our guests that same access,” Brancato says. For her part, she has always been drawn to the slower side of Italian life: dolce far niente, lingering over long meals, wandering Italy | Page 21

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Italy | From page 20 without an agenda, and the simple pleasure of not being in a hurry. Together, they realized they could offer something different from a typical tour: an experience built around real relationships, meaningful connections, and the freedom to experience Italy at a slower pace. That vision became a reality this past June and July, when Sapore di Vita Italiana welcomed its inaugural group to Italy. Guests spent time in Rome and Tuscany, staying at Donna Camilla Savelli in Rome and the relais at Casanova di Neri in Tuscany, properties chosen as much for their sense of place and history as for their beauty. “Staying in places with that much layered history is exactly the kind of experience we want our guests to have,” Brancato says. “It was a small group, and it went even better than we hoped.” In Rome, guests experienced familiar landmarks in a different way. A sunrise tour allowed guests to see the city before the crowds and traffic arrived. At open-air markets, they discovered where the produce and meat for their evening meal was sourced before sitting down to enjoy it that night. But perhaps the most memorable experience came over dinner in Tuscany. “If you ask anyone in the group about their most memorable meal, they’ll all say the same thing: our wine dinner at Casanova di Neri.” Brancato recalls, “It was a perfect evening, with a private room and exquisite food, including lasagna made to perfection and top-notch wine.” Partway through dinner, an unexpected guest wandered in: Thor, a golden retriever who belongs to the winery owner’s family. “That mix of world-class quality and warm, familial feeling really captures the essence of Sapore di Vita Italiana,” Brancato says. The inaugural trip also gave the couple a chance to see what they want to build on for 2027. For next year’s trip, they’ll spend their first two nights in Rome before heading to Casanova di Neri in Tuscany for four nights and then on to the Castelli Romani region, just outside Rome. “Each year, we do our own annual trips, but we’re adding a region every year,” Brancato explains. “So in 2028, the base will be Castelli Romani, and then we may travel to Sardinia, or an-

other corner of Italy.” “We want to know each place, not just see it,” Serpicelli says. “This area has old villages, volcanic lakes, good food and wine. You need time to really live and experience the life here.” The region includes Castel Gandolfo, home to the pope’s summer residence, and is particularly known for Frascati and other local wines. Next year the group will spend four days exploring its villages and lakes, dining everywhere from simple family-run restaurants to fine dining establishments, before heading to Tuscany for the second half of the trip. “It’s a chance to go even deeper and more local while keeping the trip intentionally small and personal,” Brancato says. The itinerary will include visits to local farms, wineries, artisan shops, and off-the-beaten-path museums, with wine woven throughout rather than treated as simply another stop. Casanova di Neri, the family-run Montalcino estate founded by Giovanni Neri and now operated by his son Giacomo and his family, is one of Italy’s celebrated producers of Brunello di Montalcino. Its Cerretalto bottling has earned a perfect 100-point score. But for Brancato, the real value of a wine experience goes beyond what’s in the glass. It’s about the setting, the culture, and the experience as a whole.

Alongside the small-group trips that will be held annually, Brancato and Serpicelli are also launching fully private, custom itineraries for travelers who know they want to experience Italy, or a specific region, but aren’t sure where to begin. To tailor the trip, the couple will sit down with each traveler to understand their style: how much downtime they prefer, how full they like their days, and how active they want to be, whether that means biking and hiking or being driven from place to place. “People come to us already dreaming about Italy, but they’re not sure where to start or how to navigate once they’re there,” Brancato says. “We handle everything. And because Fabrizio is there speaking the language and reading the room, nothing gets lost in translation. If something needs to change, it can happen seamlessly, and no one is left trying to figure things out on their own.” And that, ultimately, is what Brancato and Serpicelli hope guests take home from Sapore di Vita Italiana: not just memories of where they went, but memories of the people they met, the tables they shared, and the moments they never could have found in a guidebook. For more about the couple’s next adventures, visit saporedivitaitaliana.com or follow them on Instagram at @saporedivitaitaliana. ML

Left page: Casanova di Neri. Photo courtesy of Casanova di Neri. Right: Lindsay Brancato and Fabrizio Serpicelli. Photo by Michael Butcher.

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NE W

MAR–LYN

FOALSFIELD

Boyce, VA 22620 | 67 acres | $6,695,000

The Plains, VA 20198 | 93+ acres | $4,750,000

The Plains, VA 20198 | 12+ acres | $4,000,000

6 Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths, 2 Half Baths. Federal style manor refinished, updated and expanded. Guest house, restored bank barn, and Opequon Creek.

Elegant and traditional, 5 Bedrooms, 5 Full Baths, 12 Rooms. The manor house enjoys a commanding view of this estate’s 93 gently rolling acres and its 1 ½ acre pond.

Main Home – 4 bedroom, 5/2 baths. Heated salt water pool, 3 season outdoor living area. Minutes from The Plains and Middleburg, easy access to D.C.

John Coles 540-270-0094

John Coles 540-270-0094 | Natascha Folens 571-259-3003

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Delaplane, VA 20144 | 187 acres | $2,995,000

Paris, VA 20130 | 47+ acres | $2,600,000

Marshall, VA 20115 | 24+ acres | $2,199,000

Gorgeous views! 7 Parcels: Main 144+ acres, 6 parcels 1+ up to 12+ acres. New: driveway, well, underground electric, 6 BR perc site. John Coles 540-270-0094

Renovated 3 BR house on 47 acres in 3 parcels. Sweeping views. 6,000 Sq ft storage barn with 8 bays, workshop and bathroom. Conservation easement tax potential. Emily Ristau 540-454-9083 | Snowden Clarke 540-229-1452

5 Bedrooms, 5 Full Baths, 2 Half Baths. Turnkey horse farm in the heart of Bellevue Farms. Guest house, barn apartment, 3-car garage w/ workshop. Cricket Bedford 540-229-3201

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Purcellville, VA 20132 | 4+ acres | $1,199,999

Boyce, VA 22620 | 14+ acres | $945,000

Boyce, VA 22620 | 10+ acres | $899,000

Ideal for an investor or owner-operator. Character, income, and community legacy. Potential eligibility for federal and VA historic rehabilitation tax credits and preservation grants.

3 BR, 1/1 BA huntbox. Exterior paint and new roof. Hardwood floors, high ceilings, 2 working fireplaces. Blue Ridge Mountain views.

3 BR, 2/1 BA Cape Cod in Blue Ridge hunt country. Original floors, beamed ceilings. 4-stall center aisle barn. 1 hour from Dulles. In conservation easement.

Kristin Dillon-Johnson 703-673-6920

Anne McIntosh 703-509-4499 | Maria Eldredge 540-454-3829

IM P PR RO IC VE E D

LIMESTONE FARM

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IN HORSE COUNTRY QUIET ROADS LEAD SOMEWHERE WORTH ARRIVING BOXWOOD GLEN Purcellville, VA 20132 | 18+ acres | $3,200,000 Move-in ready c.1870 home with tasteful modernization. 4 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths, 1 Half Bath. Approx 2,560 sq ft. 12 stall barn, tack room and wash stall, 6 paddocks. Emily Ristau 540-454-9083

HIDDEN HILL Round Hill, VA 20141 | 4+ acres | $1,239,999 4 Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths, 1 Half Bath. 3,564 Finished sq ft. 3 Full living spaces - ideal for multi-generational living. No HOA restrictions. Kristin Dillon-Johnson 703-673-6920

Photo Credit: Gomer Pyles

Fall is a magical time in Horse Country. It’s a season for change — for beauty, for majesty, for the quiet roads that lead somewhere worth arriving. When you live in Horse Country, you’re choosing a uniquely peaceful way of life, one season at a time. If you’re ready to find your road home, contact Thomas & Talbot today.

AUSTIN GROVE Bluemont, VA 20135 | 41+ acres | $895,000 Comprised of woodlands & open fields. In the heart of the Piedmont Hunt Territory. Approved perc site, land in easement. Jim McGowan 703-927-0233

THOMAS & TALBOT ESTATE PROPERTIES 2 S. Madison St. Middleburg VA 20117 | Office 540-687-6500 | thomasandtalbot.com Offers subject to errors, omissions, change of price or withdrawal without notice. Information contained herein is deemed reliable, but is not so warranted nor is it otherwise guaranteed.

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Granted Wellbeing: Bringing Ancient Wisdom & Modern Wellness to Middleburg Written by Dulcy B. Hooper | Photos by Michael Butcher

ranted Wellbeing, founded by wellness practitioner and educator Maggie Grant, opened its doors in Middleburg on September 12. Guided by the principles of Ayurve-

Ayurveda, often translated as “the science of life,” is one of the world’s oldest systems of medicine. Rather than focusing solely on symptoms, it emphasizes prevention and the restoration of bal-

culmination of years of study and personal growth and is informed by a desire to help others navigate their own wellness journeys. Grant’s passion for wellness grew out of a

“Being the type of mother I am, I had to go deep. I wanted to understand what was really going on with my son and what could help.” – Grant

da, a 5,000-year-old system of holistic health that originated in India, Granted Wellbeing offers carefully curated self-care products alongside personalized wellness services designed to help clients achieve greater balance, resilience, and overall well-being. Maggie Grant and her dog.

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ance among body, mind, and spirit. Practitioners believe that every person has a unique constitution and that health is achieved by understanding individual needs related to nutrition, movement, sleep, stress, and daily habits. For Grant, the new business represents the

deeply personal experience. More than a decade ago, her young son faced significant developmental and health challenges. Determined to find answers, she immersed herself in research and exWellbeing | Page 25

“Everyone has been so kind and supportive. Six members of Middleburg’s fire department came through. I learned that this building was originally the town’s firehouse, and that the basement once served as the local jail.” – Grant Wellbeing | From page 24 plored healing practices from around the world. “Being the type of mother I am,” she says, “I had to go deep. I wanted to understand what was really going on with my son and what could help.” Through that journey, Grant discovered the transformative benefits of meditation and holistic health practices. Over time, she expanded her studies into nutrition, yoga, Ayurveda, and other complementary healing approaches. Today, she credits those experiences with reshaping her understanding of health and guiding the work she now shares with others. “This is an Indian science of medicine based on longevity and finding your true self, understanding when you are out of balance, and finding ways to bring yourself back into balance,” she explains. Before entering the health and wellness field, Grant served in senior government and communications roles, including as director of intergovernmental affairs at the White House during former President George W. Bush’s administration. She also worked with governors, political

campaigns, and national organizations before redirecting her career toward health education and wellness coaching. That combination of public service, leadership experience, and personal transformation has shaped her vision for Granted Wellbeing. Grant envisions the business as a community resource. Granted Wellbeing offers wellness consultations, infrared sauna sessions, warm-oil therapies, lymphatic care services, workshops, and educational programs. The shop also features products sourced both locally and internationally. “We have a few products that can’t be found anywhere in the country other than Middleburg,” Grant shares. Grant’s affection for the community made the town a natural choice for the new venture. “I have always loved Middleburg,” she says. “The energy, the community, the people, the business owners. About 15 years ago, when there were parking meters on the street, I was here visiting and fishing for coins. The police chief walked by, put a quarter in the meter, and said, ‘Have a nice day.’ I just love this community.”

Since opening, Grant says the warm welcome has reinforced her decision. “Everyone has been so kind and supportive. Six members of Middleburg’s fire department came through. I learned that this building was originally the town’s firehouse, and that the basement once served as the local jail.” Grant says that “at the heart of Granted Wellbeing is the belief that each person already possesses many of the tools needed for healing and growth. Sometimes we just need guidance, support, and a place to begin.” With its opening in Middleburg, Granted Wellbeing offers a thoughtful space where ancient wisdom meets modern life, helping people cultivate healthier, more balanced, and more intentional lives. ML Granted Wellbeing 15 S. Madison Street Middleburg, VA 20117 (540) 326-4515 grantedwellbeing.com

Left: A table overflowing with wellness products. Middle: Even more can be found around every corner. Right: Grant and her team.

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Are You Adjusting Your Financial Plan as Your Life Evolves? Life isn’t linear. Your ﬁnancial plan shouldn’t be either. At Focus, we believe your wealth blueprint should be as dynamic as your life. As priorities shift, markets change and new opportunities emerge, we regularly revisit and reﬁne your strategy to help keep it aligned with where you are today—and where you want to go next.

Discover more, call us today to schedule a consultation. Fairfax 703.760.3673 Middleburg 540.931.9051 focuspartners.com/nova Nothing herein may be relied upon as a guarantee. Investing involves risk. Services are offered through Focus Partners Wealth, LLC (“Focus”), an SEC registered investment adviser with offices throughout the country. Registration with the SEC does not imply a certain level of skill or training and does not imply that the SEC has endorsed or approved the qualifications of Focus or its representatives. Focus has been part of the Focus Financial Partners partnership since 2011. Services and investment advice are only provided pursuant to an advisory agreement with the client. ©2026 Focus Financial Partners, LLC. All rights reserved. RO-26-5802325

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Welcome to a COMMUNITY that develops C H A R AC T E R and grows CONFIDENCE in all students

The Hill School offers an education as unique as your child. Come visit our community to learn how our program of Total Education – strong academics and meaningful participation in art, music, sports, and theater – helps build character and confidence in our students and gets them started on the path to being happy, successful adults.

Voted Best Private School in Loudoun County for Seven Consecutive Years

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SOME THINGS ARE WORTH DRESSING FOR A cold morning. A good horse. A proper meet. And a jacket that looks as though it belongs there. Horse Country tweeds and formal hunt coats are cut for riders who still appreciate beautiful cloth, correct proportions and clothes with a little backbone. Smart enough for the field. Handsome enough for town and office. Built to be worn, not merely admired. Genuine Horse Country since 1970.

Horse Country

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Delaplane Cellars’ Rick Tagg Talks Wine The winemaker reflects on the challenges and rewards of working in Virginia wine. Written by Kaitlin Hill

hen asked what brought him to Delaplane Cellars, winemaker Rick Tagg’s wit is as rich as his knowledge

Rick Tagg. Photo by Bread & Butter Digital Marketing.

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about the industry. “I needed a job,” he muses before adding, “I liked their focus on producing quality wines and providing a k now l e d ge abl e, comfortable place for people to enjoy them.” He concludes, “Plus, the view is far from bad.” Over 20 years ago, Tagg started his career in wine in an unexpected way. “I was hired in 2005 by Chris Pearmund to cut the grass at Pearmund C ellars,” he rememb ers. “While there, I worked in the tasting room, served wine dinners, wholesaled wines to various venues, worked on their barrel club, and helped in the cellar. It’s the helping in the cellar that has gotten me in all this trouble.” Trouble or not, his approach to winemaking

has earned well-deserved recognition. In 2023, Lauren Mowery of Forbes described Piedmont Station, Delaplane’s flagship Bordeaux-style red blend, as having “epitomized the potential of Virginia wine when firing on all cylinders,” concluding that “if this is the future of Virginia wine, I’m ready to invest.” While Tagg is also partial to Piedmont Station, he doesn’t like to pick favorites. “Why do people ask winemakers this question?” he protests, noting that different wines are appropriate for different situations. “There are some wines that I prefer with some foods, there are some wines that I enjoy as an aperitif, and there are some wines that I enjoy because the grapes don’t give me any trouble,” he remarks. “I can appreciate each of the wines that we produce on its own merits, and I can appreciate wines that are correct and delicious for others that may not be my cup of tea.” The merits of any wine are determined by any number of factors — the region, the climate, the grapes, the production process, the aging process, just to name a few — all of which present challenges winemakers are required to overcome. When reflecting on working in Virginia, Tagg says, “The only consistent thing about growing grapes in Virginia is the inconsistency. The weather is a challenge every year; some years we have drought, some years we have too much rain, some years we have late [or] early frosts and freezes. Other challenges are unexpected invasive things like spotted lantern flies and other insects. We are also blessed with different fungal disease pressures, which can be exacerbated by the Rewards | Page 29

Rewards | From page 28 weather.” When adequately met, however, challenges often turn into rewards. For Tagg, his work has many. He lists, “Being able to work with challenging vintages. Working with owners, Nicholas Jordan and Katie and Dan Gomez, who trust me and my crew to maintain high standards to grow quality grapes and produce quality wines.” He continues, “I count myself fortunate to work with and for such considerate and respectful people. The most rewarding thing about my job is getting to work with our crew, the people whose hard work grows the grapes and makes the wine. They are the most hardworking, intelligent, and caring group of people that I have had the pleasure and honor of working with. I would not be able to do it without them.”

After 20 years in the industry and the past 10 with Delaplane Cellars, Tagg can say, “I am proud to be a part of the Virginia wine industry and I am grateful for the support from each other, the Virginia Vineyards Association, the Vir-

ginia Wineries Association, and, importantly, the Winemakers Research Exchange, whose experiments and knowledge go far in improving Virginia winemaking.” ML

Delaplane Cellars. Photo by Joshua Rector.

LAND TRUST OF VIRGINIA PRESENTS

sUNSET IN THE FIELD

Sunday, October 11, 2026 3:30 - Sunset | Middleburg, VA A family fall tradition – join Land Trust of Virginia for an unforgettable fall afternoon on one of Loudoun's most scenic historic properties! Enjoy live bluegrass, local BBQ, Virginia wine, and a sunset that reminds us all why conservation matters. This year's event features the iconic The Seldom Scene, a must-hear for bluegrass lovers. Tickets are limited.

Learn more and get tickets at landtrustva.org/events OCTOBER 2026

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LA CACCIA COMES TO MIDDLEBURG Written by Lia Hobel | Photos courtesy of Kevin Ash

Kevin Ash brings restaurants, a social club, and a speakeasy to the former Fun Shop property on Washington Street.

n West Washington Street, the former Fun Shop property is being prepared for its next act. For years, the building was part of the town’s familiar rhythm — a place locals knew, visitors noticed, and generations associated with the charm of a small village main street. Now, developers Kevin and Remington Ash are reimagining the landmark address as something layered, atmospheric, and distinctly Middleburg. Kevin, president and CEO of Madison Dale Consulting LLC, Courthouse Commons LLC, Leesburg Central LLC, and Clay Construction LLC, purchased the former Fun Shop property with a vision for more than a new restaurant. His work includes hospitality-driven projects in Leesburg and the Chase Club model, now being extended west. But Middleburg carries its own resonance. Kevin’s first real estate development work began here in the mid-1990s, when, at 23, A rendering of the future multipurpose space.

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he developed two homes in town. Returning three decades later feels, in many ways, like a full-circle moment. “Middleburg is just such an awesome, quaint town,” Kevin says. “It’s great to be back 30 years later.” That homecoming has taken shape at 115 and 117 W. Washington Street, where the project will bring several distinct experiences under one roof: La Caccia, an Italian-American restaurant; L’Enoteca, a casual coffee and wine bar with smaller plates, grab-and-go offerings, prepared meals, pasta, and sauces; the Chase Club, a private social club and gathering space upstairs; a 32-seat speakeasy tucked behind L’Enoteca; an art gallery presence with works available for purchase; and three workforce apartments expected to follow after the hospitality spaces open. The former Fun Shop’s winding footprint

helped shape that vision. Where some buildings dictate one clear use, this one offered a maze of possibility. Its connected rooms, additions, and tucked-away corners inspired a more layered approach — dinner here, wine there, gatherings upstairs, a hidden drink behind another door, artwork catching the eye along the way. Rather than erase the character of the property, the team is building from it, hoping a familiar address will hold a new kind of life. At the heart of the concept is La Caccia, a name that means “the hunt” in Italian, a nod to Middleburg’s equestrian heritage and the countryside that surrounds it. Inside, the restaurant will be the more refined and intimate of the dining spaces, with glossy black walls, white tablecloths, and a moodier atmosphere. The idea is Italian cuisine filtered through Hunt Country Caccia | Page 31

Caccia | From page 30

add another in-

— elegant but tactile, rooted in tradition but not overly formal. Just next door, L’Enoteca will offer a lighter, brighter counterpoint, taking cues from an Italian market and wine bar. Guests might come in for coffee during the day, collect sandwiches and a bottle of wine before heading to a tailgate, or pick up prepared meals and house-made sauces to take home. If approvals allow, the team also hopes to explore a small sidewalk market-style offering on weekends. Seasonality and local sourcing will guide the culinary program. Chef Vincent Badiee, who lives in Middleburg, will lead the restaurant. One of La Caccia’s most distinctive features will be its pasta-making room, an 8-by-8-foot glassed-in space where guests can watch fresh pasta being made onsite. A small chef ’s counter nearby will place diners close to the action. Art will be woven throughout the venue, not simply as decoration but with a gallery-like feel and works available for purchase. “It’s a very sensory experience,” Remington says. “You’re going to smell the Italian scents from the pasta-making room, and you’re going to feel the different textures from the rich draperies to the antiques that we scatter throughout.” The experience continues upstairs, where the Chase Club will occupy approximately 2,400 square feet as a private gathering space for dining, meetings, events, and social connection. Members will be able to order food from QR codes placed on the tables. More than a traditional meeting space or event room, it’s an extension of the hospitality experience — a place for conversation, private meals, and community. The Chase Club concept builds on the Ashes’ Leesburg work. In Middleburg, they see a natural westward extension, especially for residents in western Loudoun and the surrounding Hunt Country communities who may find Leesburg just too far away for regular use. With a future endeavor also envisioned in Warrenton, the Middleburg location sits naturally along that countryside corridor. Below and behind the more visible spaces, a 32-seat speakeasy tucked behind L’Enoteca will

timate setting to the property. The

proj-

ect’s residential component brings the vision

back to town life. Three workforce apartments, located toward the rear of the property and accessed separately from the restaurants and club, are intended to support people who work in Middleburg and want to live nearby. “This is just an opportunity where people could afford to live in town and work in town,” Kevin explains. For now, the focus is on opening the doors. The restaurants and Chase Club are projected to open by the end of November, with the apartments expected in the new year. Menu planning is already underway, signage has been approved, and the team is working toward welcoming guests in time for the holiday season.

In the end, the project is less about replacing what stood there than about adding another chapter to a property Middleburg already knows. The familiar address will once again open its doors, this time with Italian flavors, Hunt Country details, private gathering rooms, artwork for sale, and spaces meant for both lingering and belonging. ML

Top: A peek inside the Chase Club. Bottom left: Speakeasy inspiration. Bottom right: Black-and-white art sets the mood.

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Autumn is here! Think about updating your marketing materials:

Something to Treasure. A BOARDING & DAY SCHOOL FOR GIRLS IN GRADES 9-12 & PG ADMISSION@FOXCROFT.ORG | 540.687.4340 22407 Foxhound Lane, Middleburg, VA

WWW.FOXCROFT.ORG

Business Cards Brochures & Flyers Banners & Signs • Direct Mail Promotional Products and so much more!

Warrenton Jewelers & GIFTS 524 Fletcher Dr. Warrenton, VA 20186 540-341-8840 warrentonjewelers.com

OCTOBER 2026

Veteran-owned full-service print shop proudly serving Middleburg and the Virginia hunt country since 1986.

Tel: 540-687-5710 5 E. Federal St. • Middleburg, VA 20117 www.mrprintofmiddleburg.com

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SCARY STORIES:

Perfect Reads for Halloween Recommended by Locals Written by Diane Helentjaris | Photos by Kaitlin Hill

s the days shorten and the air crisps, and with Halloween just around the corner, the thrill of scary stories beckons. To

(proverb) used to teach the duality of body and

fiction and a family drama as well. I could not put

soul but applied in a modern-day context. Three

this down,” she says.

celebrate the spooky season, a fearless group of

ant panda monk who shows them that they can

Hunt Country bibliophiles and dedicated readers

be more than one person depending on the situ-

have shared their recommendations for chilling,

ation, and also, they can be anything they want

thrilling, and ghostly tales, from fantasy lands to just next door.

siblings are told a ghost story by an imaginary gi-

to be.”

Haley Morgan Wright says “Agnes Lives!” by Hallie Elizabeth Newton is “a truly fascinating satirical horror debut. ‘Gossip Girl’ meets ‘Catcher in the Rye’ in this bonkers tale of a woman on a mission to find someone to take her life. A day-

Mysteries: The staff at Warrenton’s The Open Book recommend “Arsenic and Adobo” by Mia P. Manansala, “Murder on Charity Lane” by Jo Nichols, and the cozy animal mystery “Shady Hollow” by Juneau Black. Favorites from Read Between the Crimes: This Warrenton book club nominated “Love, Mom” by Iliana Xander as their favorite thriller.

Children’s Stories: Anna Waterland, of the Middleburg Library, suggests “Zen Ghosts” by Jon J. Muth “as a book that will appeal to all elementary-aged children… The beautiful illustrations will be sure to captivate everyone’s interest. This is an ancient Chinese koan

Favorites from the Middleburg Books team: Shayne Johnson is a fan of “Mazywood” by Tananarive Due. “Wow! This thrilling novel is fantastic and well worth the length. Due brings two worlds to life so well, I did not care what timeline I was in. In the first timeline,

in-the-life story that gains speed like a train that

we follow the career of Mazy from childhood

is barreling toward a cataclysmic derailment.”

through adulthood as she struggles to gain work as a Black child actress in Hollywood… In the current timeline, her grandson, a successful film-

Favorites from The Open Book: “Never Whistle at Night: An Indigenous Dark Fiction Anthol-

maker in Hollywood, is trying to keep his fam-

ogy” and its follow-up, “Back for Blood: Never

ily together… This novel is so much more than

Whistle at Night Part II,” edited by Shane Hawk

a horror book — it’s a well-researched historical

Scary | Page 35

Top left: “Zen Ghosts” by Jon J. Muth. Bottom left: “Shady Hollow” by Juneau Black. Right: “Murder on Charity Lane” by Jo Nichols and “Arsenic and Adobo” by Mia P. Manansala.

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gothic story about a haunted house continues to

coming the Boogeyman,” moves on to “Chasing

rank in Amazon’s top 100 horror books.

the Boogeyman,” and in October, will conclude

History: Laura Christiansen, director of Lees-

with “Killing the Boogeyman.” Fallon says that

burg’s Thomas Balch Library, promises that

Chizmar “actually wrote with Stephen King” and

“Ghostland” by Colin Dickey is a “must-read for

“has a psycho thriller aspect. [He] gets deep into

anyone who enjoys ghosts or historic sites, or who has ever pondered why many ghost stories seem unanchored to actual history.” In it, the author “travels across America’s most storied haunted

character and place.” Local Authors: Fallon also suggests work by

sites to uncover the historical anxieties, forgotten crimes, and repressed memories behind ghost stories, revealing how the living use tales of the supernatural to navigate the naScary | From page 34

tion’s unresolved past.” For something clos-

and Theodore C. Van Alst Jr., are anthologies of

er to home, Christiansen’s

Indigenous tales. Reviews describe it as “scary

staff recommend “Virginia

and unsettling and sometimes outright horrify-

Ghosts” by Marguerite du

ing.”

Pont Lee. The library has a

The Open Book staff add that “The Haunt-

1930 first edition of the book in

ing of Hill House” by Shirley Jackson is a “clas-

its catalogue. And, “Hauntings

sic thriller.” Though first published in 1959, this

and Happenings of Loudoun” by former Leesburg mayor Frank Raflo (1919–2009) entertains with local lore like a cat’s body with a man’s head, the face in the tower, and more. Horror: Leah Fallon, owner of Leesburg’s Birchtree Books, recommends Richard Chizmar’s

Marshall author Carla Vergot. Her “Lily Barlow” series, centered around a baker’s daughter also from Marshall, is “fun.” Vergot is “really good at plotting” her cozy mysteries. “She really brings personality into her work,” Fallon adds.

“Boogeyman” series. Set in

To learn more about The Open Book or the

Maryland, this mix of hor-

Read Between the Crimes book club, visit open-

ror fiction and true crime

bookwarrenton.com. For more spooky stories,

features interviews and photographs. It begins with “Be-

visit Middleburg Books, the Middleburg Library, or the Thomas Balch Library in Leesburg. ML

Top left: “Love, Mom” by Iliana Xander. Right: “Mazywood” by Tananarive Due and “Agnes Lives!” by Hallie Elizabeth Newton. Bottom left: “Back for Blood: Never Whistle at Night Part II,” edited by Shane Hawk and Theodore C. Van Alst Jr., and “Lily Barlow: The Mystery of Jane Dough” by Carla Vergot.

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2026 HUNT SCENES Photos by Joanne Maisano

Top row: Blue Ridge Hunt. Middle row: Orange County Hounds. Bottom row: Snickersville Hounds.

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OCTOBER 2026

Scenes from Oatlands’ Garden Soirée Photos by Caroline Gray

On September 20, guests were invited to experience the beauty of Oatlands at an elegant garden party complete with cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, period music, lawn games, living history, and more. At the heart of the gathering was Oatlands’ mission of preservation, as funds raised from the event will help the restoration of its Corinthian capitals and historic smokehouse. For even more photos from the event, visit MiddleburgLife.com.

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OCTOBER 2026

Fall Has Arrived at Grayson's

RESERVE YOUR TABLE TODAY. Savor the season with a menu crafted for every occasion — from leisurely breakfasts to indulgent weekend brunch, and everything in between. GRAYSONSATGOODSTONE.COM | 540-687-3333

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OCTOBER 2026

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Our Favorite Boozy Gifts

Strawberry Mint Julep Mixer Kit, $30, Available at Loudoun Market

Horse Cocktail Pick, $34, Available at Every Little Something

“Three Cheers,” $22, Available at Middleburg Books

Pumpkin Spice Syrup, $30, Available at Federal & Black Wine Journal, $27, Available at Atelier Maison

Horse Bit Ice Bucket, $275, Available at Tri-County Feeds

Harris Tweed Flask, $45.95, Available at Faire Isles Trading Co.

Driftless Studios Cocktail Signs, $22 each, Available at Brick & Mortar

middleburglife.com

Horseshoe Bottle Opener, $18, Available at Chloe’s of Middleburg •

OCTOBER 2026

DREAMING OF

Country Living?

LOANS FOR:

New homes and construction Land improvements Livestock Barns and outbuildings Operating expenses And much more!

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butcherphotography@gmail.com | butcherphotography.com OCTOBER 2026

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FROM THE STACKS TO THE PAGE:

VIRGINIA FALL RACES

ELIZABETH LETTS AT NSLM

October 10 | 12:30 p.m. | vafallraces.com

October 8 | 5 to 7 p.m. | nationalsporting.org

Immerse yourself in Hunt Country with this annual fall tradition at Glenwood Park. As the oldest continuous horse race in the state, the Virginia Fall Races offer a relaxing atmosphere, creative tailgates, and a Family Fun Fair featuring a petting zoo, bounce house, and other kid-friendly activities. A Vendor Village on-site will showcase a variety of booths selling clothing, artisanal goods, pet supplies, jewelry, and more.

Join No. 1 New York Times bestselling author and former John H. Daniels Fellowship recipient Elizabeth Letts as she shares the story behind her latest novel, “Fallen for France.” Letts will take participants behind the scenes of her creative process, revealing how materials she discovered at the National Sporting Library & Museum inspired the book. Following the discussion, there will be a Q&A session and book signing.

PUMPKIN VILLAGE FEST AT LEESBURG ANIMAL PARK

MARSHALL DAY 2026

October 10 - 11 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | leesburganimalpark.com

October 10 | 12 to 4 p.m. | fauquiercounty.gov Bring the whole family to the Marshall Community Center for an afternoon of live entertainment, arts and crafts, food vendors, and a bounce house hosted by Fauquier County Parks & Recreation. All ages are welcome and entry is free.

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OCTOBER 2026

Celebrate spooky season with the animals this year at Leesburg Animal Park’s Pumpkin Village, with new and improved ziplines, wagon rides, giant hill slides, and live music. Food trucks will be available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and face painting from 12 to 3 p.m. Don’t miss the year-round farmers market with seasonal treats, pumpkins,

and mums for sale. SIXTH ANNUAL OYSTER RIOT October 11 | 12 to 3 p.m. | cellarpass.com Savor several varieties of Virginia-farmed raw and grilled oysters in the Vineyard Pavilion at Boxwood Winery. Beyond oysters, there will be a shrimp boil, caviar, Chesapeake Bay blue crab, and chicken tenders for the kids. The Lost Locals will provide live music. For more information on tickets, visit cellarpass.com. MIDDLEBURG FILM FESTIVAL October 15 - 18 | middleburgfilm.org Middleburg’s annual film festival returns for its 14th installment. In addition to fantastic films, participants can expect thought-provoking Q&As, lively panel discussions, celebrity sightings, and one-of-a-kind events all set against the stunning backdrop of Middleburg. For more information, film schedules, and tickets, visit the MFF website. Calendar | Page 43

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Calendar | From page 42 HAYMARKET DAY 2026 October 17 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | townofhaymarket.org Haymarket Day is held annually every third Saturday of October and hosts up to 15,000 visitors. This year, the celebration opens with a parade at 10 a.m. featuring local vendors, schools, and performers. Following the parade, visitors can browse a variety of booths selling local products. There will also be live music and children’s activities. The event is free but the fun is priceless! KINLOCH FARM’S THIRD ANNUAL REACH THE ROOTS FARM TOUR October 17 | 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. | kinlochfarm.com Enjoy Appalachian music, local cuisine, and educational opportunities at Kinloch Farm for an afternoon. Visitors will be able to meet the animals, buy from the farm store, and learn about local conservation efforts while taking in the scenic countryside of The Plains. This work-

ing farm offers an inside glance at regenerative farming practices. TEDxWARRENTON October 24 | 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. | ted.com Sit in on the fifth annual TEDxWarrenton conference to experience an assortment of short TED-style talks given by local community members. In under 18 minutes, speakers will present their well-formed ideas and spark conversation. This event is organized entirely by volunteers. FAMILY-FRIENDLY HAUNTED TRAIL AT SALAMANDER RESORT October 28 | 6:30 to 9 p.m. | salamanderresort.com Gear up for Halloween with a scenic 0.6-mile walk around the Salamander Resort. Featuring 10 playful, themed scenes with costumed actors and designed for children ages 4 through 12, the experience is sure to bring laughs and thrills to the whole family. Hot dogs, barbecue, s’mores kits, caramel apples, and other seasonal foods will be available for purchase throughout the evening.

SPROUT 5K October 25 | 9 a.m. | sproutcenter.org Support the Sprout Center’s mission of equinebased therapy with some cardio through the neighborhoods of Broadlands. The start and finish lines meet at Clyde’s Willow Creek Farm. Walk, run, or roll the 5K or 1K course in support of a worthy cause. TEA AND TALK: REMEMBRANCE RITUALS AND THE ETIQUETTE OF GRIEF October 25 | 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. | oatlands.org Local historian Kelly Wenner White will present an overview of Civil War-era mourning customs and attire while guests enjoy an afternoon tea featuring traditional English scones, Devon cream, classic tea sandwiches and sweets, local preserves, and Oatlands’ own tea blend. Gluten-free refreshments are available upon request. Tickets are $70. For more Hunt Country events, visit MiddleburgLife.com or scan here:

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Experience 100% Virginia Grown Wine in the Heart of Hunt Country Open Daily 44

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23595 Winery Lane, Middleburg, VA 20117 •

OCTOBER 2026

ExperienceGreenhill.com

Join Us for Afternoon Tea Every Saturday afternoon at Harrimans Grill, delight in seasonal treats, fine teas and warm hospitality. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply embracing the art of slowing down, every sip is a moment worth savoring.

844.701.7184 SALAMANDERRESORT.COM

OCTOBER 2026

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Custom Homes & Remodeling Designed to Evolve with You — Today and Tomorrow

For nearly 40 years, Golden Rule Builders has been designing, building, and renovating homes throughout our region with a commitment to thoughtful design, quality craftsmanship, and lasting relationships.

Design-Build • Remodeling • Additions • Custom Homes GoldenRuleBuilders.com • 540.788.3539 • 3409 Catlett Rd., Catlett VA