The Merrie Mill Farm Story

History

In researching the home’s history, the Pellys were moved to discover a heritage for community events, stemming in particular from John Armstrong “Archie” Chaloner. In the 1920s, Chaloner was known for welcoming the community to his home and property to make use of the dance pavilion and first public pool and first movie theater in the region. The main house at Merrie Mill Farm was built in 1857.

From The Pellys

In 2017, we were in Charlottesville for a friend’s wedding when we became enchanted by Virginia. The idea of starting a vineyard sparked and took hold. Just a year later, we purchased Merrie Mill Farm, moving our family from the UK. The property, for its buildings and land, spoke to our love of wine, architecture, interior design and the outdoors. So, with our young daughter, Willow, and another on the way, we moved into a small cottage on the property. While Elizabeth oversaw the restoration and renovation of the main house, I took to the fields.

We were thrilled to learn much of our fields consist of a rare Manteo soil, a rocky and well-draining soil perfect for growing grapes. We produced our first Vintage in 2021 and have not looked back since then!

Meanwhile, we had an old tractor barn demolished to construct our new 5,000 sq ft tasting room. Elizabeth and team designed the tasting room to feel like a home, sourcing eclectic antique furnishings, personal artwork and antique taxidermy - to bring together a space that has to be seen to be believed.

We have found huge satisfaction in working the land, discovering curiosities to bring our tasting room to life, walking from the house to the tasting room with our girls and dogs at our feet and sharing all of it with you! We’re excited to welcome you to The Tasting Room at Merrie Mill, to be part of hosting your gatherings and celebrations, reunions and rest.

Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard has been a true labour of love, and we take great joy in welcoming you here.

Guy, Elizabeth, Willow, Clementine and Maple Pelly. XX