Venue Information
Public🏡 Key Venue Details
About the owners
Willowcroft is the lifelong work of founder and winemaker Lew Parker, who planted the first grapes in 1981 and established the winery two years later. With more than 40 years of experience, Lew has become a cornerstone of Virginia’s wine industry, recognized with honors including Virginia Wine Industry Person of the Year (2002), the Gordon Murchie Lifetime Achievement Award (2013), and Loudoun County Winemaker of the Year (2023). Beyond crafting award-winning wines, he has shared his expertise by teaching others the art of winemaking since the 1990s.
History of the venue
Perched high on Catoctin Ridge at the southern tip of Leesburg, Willowcroft opened in 1984 as Loudoun County’s original winery. Its vineyards and picnic area boast sweeping views of Loudoun Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains, making it a landmark destination for four decades. Known for its attention to detail and consistent quality, Willowcroft has produced nationally recognized wines since its founding, embodying the region’s growth from fledgling wine country to a respected player on the national stage.
Winemaking philosophy
At Willowcroft, tradition and respect for the land guide every step of the process. Lew Parker and his team emphasize careful vineyard management and hands-on craftsmanship in the cellar to ensure that each bottle reflects both place and heritage. With an approach rooted in consistency and excellence, Willowcroft continues to celebrate the flavors and stories that define Virginia wine, making it a legacy winery where past, present, and future meet in the glass.
