Wineries and Vineyards in Talks in the Eastern Panhandle Among 2nd-Year Growth in Tourism

by Ciara Litchfield

After the news that West Virginia’s tourism industry grew for the second year, Governor Jim Justice announced on Oct 23, 2019 that his administration would be exploring possibilities to expanding vineyards and wineries in the eastern panhandle of the state. 

Justice believes that the region has the potential due to the similarities it shares with Virginia across the border, which has seen success in their vineyards and wineries. In 2015, wineries had contributed $1.37 billion dollars to the economy in Virginia.

“This could truly be a phenomenal green initiative that would lead to a major economic boost, more jobs, and a significant uptick in tourism in our beautiful Eastern Panhandle,” Gov. Justice said. “If you go to places like Jefferson and Berkeley counties, and look right across the border in Virginia, there’s been a concentrated effort to promote vineyards and wineries and it’s really been a big plus to the economy.”

West Virginia currently has 12 wineries and vineyards across the state, with one even near Morgantown. The Forks of Cheat Winery provides visitors with tours of the vineyard and tastings from their selection of wines.

Forks of Cheat Winery in Morgantown, W.Va.

West Virginia State Tourism Commissioner Chelsea Ruby said in an interview with Hoppy Kercheval on Talkline that,”Tourism in West Virginia is growing and it’s a really exciting time.”

Growth in tourism is attributed to the significant push towards outdoor recreation tourism as the attempt to move away from the coal industry continues. W.Va. Tourism has rebranded the state as “#AlmostHeaven” in order to capitalize on not only the song written by John Denver, but also the scenic views that come from the cascading mountains and rivers. 

In response to what W.Va. is trying to sell, Ruby said, “What we are selling is the mountains. It’s that view that you got no matter where you are in West Virginia, nestled in those mountains you are going to find charming small towns, unbelievable outdoor recreation, and the friendliest folks anywhere.”

People come to experience white water rafting, fishing, hiking and rock climbing to name a few of the activities.