In the early 1960’s, George and Cookie Seibel purchased property on the Roanoke/Botetourt County line to establish a working farm. The Greek word georgos literally means “farmer” or “earthworker,” which directly translated into the farm patriarch’s unwavering work ethic and fierce tenacity.
An operational dairy through the 1980’s, Mountain View Farm transitioned to a beef herd to adapt to changing labor availability and children who grew and moved off the farm for other pursuits. Andy, the eldest son, continued to maintain part ownership in the herd and assist on the farm as much as possible around his agricultural education career; a vocational calling that is now over 40 years strong.
In 1999, the family was approached by a vineyard operator about leasing property to grow wine grapes. Andy had been wise enough to marry a gal with Irish blood and California lineage, so an interest in wine growing was not far-fetched. Megan, accompanied by George, attended a meeting for new and potential growers and was hooked. With George’s blessing, some knowledge of soil science and chemistry, and a passion for dreaming about the future, Megan spearheaded what became a series of Vitis vinifera plantings between 2000 and 2008. Three children were raised on the farm and helped plant and harvest fruit that produced award-winning and internationally recognized wine.
In 2007, we lost our beloved George to cancer. Community, however, reigns supreme. The morning after his passing, members of the Ruritan club, church, and farming families arrived at daybreak to help harvest Merlot. Steady calm, and prayerful peace saw us through that day and beyond.
In 2008, after years of growing Chardonnay for the Thibaut-Janisson label, Manuel Janisson arrived from Champagne with his business partner Claude Thibaut to select a new grape clone and limestone-rich vineyard site for the expansion of their US sparkling label. To this day, those grapes are made méthode champenoise into a rich and lucious liquid bubbly celebration, now under the 15 Peaks brand.
In 2023, shifts in our growing contracts opened an opportunity to make our own wine, and the 15 Peaks brand was born. Come see us and enjoy a sip or two among these glorious Blue Ridge foothills.
Our farm is filled with stories like this. Farms don’t only raise crops, they raise families with spirits as high as the tips of the vines and souls as deep as their roots.
From our family to yours, Cheers!
15 Peaks Vineyard 