When Rick Phillips was a young boy during World War II, he lived in the wine country of Northern CA. The rolling hills filled with grapevines made a lasting impression. Then for 35 years as a Marine Corps flyer, he lived all over the world. Ten years ago, the Phillips discovered nestled in the quaint countryside of Virginia's historic Westmoreland County, located in the heart of the Northern Neck, almost one hundred acres of farm and an old rundown farm house. They had a vision of a beautiful vineyard. They had a dream.

Richard L. (Rick) Phillips, Major General USMC (Ret) and wife, Linda met while he was in a leadership slot in Dahlgren, VA. Linda was a music teacher. Rick's years of flying kept them nomadic through the years but finally came to settle in Alexandria, VA as well as in the community of Stratford Harbour in Montross, VA. What to do, where to start, they said, with this wonderful old farm. They began to school themselves on planting, cultivating and harvesting grapes. Their passion to explore the science, practice and study of vineyard production has turned General's Ridge Vineyard & Winery into more than just wagon loads of grapes.

But, they had their work cut out for them. Grapevine by grapevine the vineyard grew. It is not unusual to see Linda and Rick working along side the vineyard workers. Especially at Harvest time - the beauty of the vineyard will take your breath away. It is truly a Kodak moment.

The old rundown farmhouse, originally built in the mid 1800's, was quite a challenge. Board by board, the renovation began and up from the dust came the charming Manor House - a step back in time.

That was not enough. Peering over the vineyard you will find a newly constructed two bedroom cottage called Vineyard Views. More modern than the Manor House. It, too, has a charm of it's own.

Still, that was not enough, The Carriage House emerged and is just waiting for the next wedding reception or off site business meeting to take place.

No, no -that was not enough either. Construction began on the Somewhere in Time tasting room. A blend of yesterday motif - antiques, art, bar made from vintage doors - a touch of class - you will want to experience and enjoy their wines. And, more to come this spring, the outdoor tasting facility called the Vines Room. The Phillips have poured their hearts into creating this Camelot East. It's an experience you don't want to miss.