Meet Barbara Anselm and her family in Bloomfield NY
By Jim Moore, Chief Finger Lakes Enthusiast,
Our recent visit to Bristol Valley Winery, located amidst the picturesque scenery of Bloomfield, NY, was a delightful journey into the world of Finger Lakes wine and mead. It’s a place where every sip tells a story of dedication and love for winemaking.
Upon entering the inviting tasting room, we were greeted by Barb Anselm, the heart and soul behind the winery. Her warm welcome and enthusiasm set the tone for our visit, making us feel like cherished guests from the moment we arrived. We admired the huge life edge bar that ran the width of the room. Barbara informed us that after a long effort to find the right bar top they found a local artisan to craft the beautiful piece of wood that adorned the bar.
As Barb introduced us to her family’s winemaking journey, we were particularly struck by their commitment to crafting unique wines and meads. We learned that her son, Nickolas, and her grandson, Evan, are essential players in the winery’s operation. While Nickolas manages a heating and cooling business alongside his winemaking responsibilities, Evan is actively involved in the vineyard’s various activities. Their dedication and hard work shine through in every bottle produced by Bristol Valley Winery.
The winery’s production process is a labor of love, with Barb’s brother, David, playing a pivotal role in maintaining the vineyard and assisting with winery operations. His passion for nurturing the vineyard ensures that the grapes used in their wines are of the highest quality, a fact that Bristol Valley Winery takes great pride in.
During our visit, we had the pleasure of sampling several of the winery’s offerings, including an array of white and red wines, as well as meads. One standout was the 2018 Orange Spice Mead, a delightful blend of dry and spicy flavors. Its mesmerizing light orange hue seemed to glow in the glass, hinting at the aromatic journey ahead. With every sip, we savored notes of cinnamon, a testament to the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into each bottle.
One aspect that sets Bristol Valley Winery apart is their commitment to using estate-grown grapes. They take immense pride in their Leon Millot and Marquette grapes, which play a significant role in the creation of their wines. This dedication to locally sourced ingredients enhances the quality and distinctiveness of their offerings.
Our visit to Bristol Valley Winery was not just about wine; it was an experience that showcased the fusion of family, hard work, and exceptional craftsmanship. We left with a deeper appreciation for the Anselm family’s dedication and passion for winemaking in the Finger Lakes.
So, if you find yourself in the Finger Lakes region, be sure to visit Bristol Valley Winery. It’s a place where you can savor exceptional wines and meads while celebrating the artistry and love that go into each bottle. Oh! Don’t forget to ask Ms. Barbara about her French Bulldog. It can lead to a great conversation about hers and your own four legged family members!
To learn more about Bristol Valley Winery visit their website at https://www.bristolvalleyvineyards.com/
