The Wyalusing Valley Museum will be publishing a ‘Winery of the Week’ feature article each and every Friday from now until the Wyalusing Valley Wine Festival on Saturday, Sept. 15, in an effort to highlight the many loyal Pennsylvania wineries and vineyards that have sampled and sold their beloved varietals at the festival throughout its 15-year history.

This week, our ‘Winery of the Week’ is Juniata Valley Winery.

In 2011, George Hazard and his wife purchased a beautiful historic stone mansion that was nestled in the scenic Juniata Valley, but they weren’t exactly sure what direction they wanted to go with the investment.

After they tossed a few ideas back and forth, they came to the conclusion that the estate was the perfect setting for a bed and breakfast accompanied by a winery. By 2012, the Juniata Valley Winery and The Wilson House Bed & Breakfast were launched and in full swing.

“I dabbled in wine making and also worked in agriculture,” said Hazard. “We felt that a winery was the perfect blend of agriculture and hospitality. We knew we would enjoy working with people and providing an enjoyable place to visit, while still keeping our agricultural roots.”

Since opening six years ago, Juniata Valley has already become an award winning winery, earning multiple medals for its various varietals. Hazard said he is most proud of his 2017 “Best Sweet Wine” award from the Pennsylvania Winery Association, which was earned by Juniata Valley’s “Our Morning Thief” strawberry wine.

Hazard said his customers typically gravitate toward the sweet and tropical “Happy Sloth,” a blend of delicious Mango and Catawba; and a sweet red blend called “Red Headed Stepchild.”

The Juniata Valley Winery staff consists of nearly 20 people, said Hazard.

“Friday Night Music” events and other fun activities are held regularly at the picturesque winery in Juniata County, which also hosts weddings, business conferences and other social functions.

Juniata Valley Winery and The Wilson House Bed & Breakfast are located along Route 35 in Mifflin and can be reached at (717) 436-5400 or by visiting www.juniatavalleywinery.com.
The winery is a regular attendee of the Wyalusing Valley Wine Festival and will once again be stopping by to sample its wines at the 2018 festival on Sept. 15.