Founding the Future: Dennis and Sharon Horton

Before there were 300+ wineries and over 5,000 acres of grapes, there were pioneers like Treville Lawrence who set their sights on producing wine in the Commonwealth— pursuing the potential for a flourishing, locally sourced agriculture industry. 

Though the first attempts to produce wine in Virginia can be traced back to the first settlers, and even a few founding fathers, it wasn’t until the late 1970s when the industry began to take root.

When much of the wine world dismissed Virginia viticulture as a lost cause, an eclectic handful of individuals pressed on – from European immigrants with wine in their DNA, to dairy farm matriarchs with a thirst for something different. One hard-earned vintage after another, these pioneers set the tone for the industry to come – curious, collaborative, stubborn in the face of setbacks.

The ensuing years would see an explosion in both the quantity and quality of Virginia wine, thanks in large part to the perseverance and passion of these key individuals. One by one, we’ll take a look back at the contributions and discoveries of Virginia Wine pioneers.

---

Dennis and Sharon Horton

Dennis and Sharon Horton weren’t just winemakers, they were fearless pioneers who helped shape the foundation of modern Virginia wine. In the early 1980s, when few believed the state’s climate could support serious viticulture, the Hortons began with a small vineyard on their property in Madison County. That early curiosity soon grew into a bold vision. Alongside a business partner, they purchased 55 acres in Orange County and set to work building what would become Horton Vineyards.

Dennis had the big ideas — new grapes, new styles, new risks. Sharon made them grow. Every time he imagined a new variety for Virginia, she planted and tended the vines to help it thrive. Together, they translated a vision into viable fruit.

In 1989, they were the first to plant Viognier in Virginia, a grape few in the country had even heard of at the time. Today, it’s one of the state’s standout varieties, with over 300 acres planted — an achievement that can be traced directly back to the Hortons’ determination. They also championed Cabernet Franc, Tannat, Rkatsiteli, and helped reintroduce the native Norton grape. Many of these varieties, once seen as gambles, are now staples in tasting rooms across the Commonwealth.

Perhaps Dennis and Sharon’s greatest contribution wasn’t just the vines they cultivated, but the way they shared what they learned. The Horton family has always been open about both their failures and successes, creating a ripple effect that influenced a generation of Virginia winemakers. As longtime industry members recall, Dennis likely tore out more vines than most people ever planted — but each misstep brought new insights that benefited the entire industry.

Dennis Horton passed away in 2018, but the legacy he and Sharon built – through grit, experimentation, and a deep belief in Virginia’s potential – continues to shape the future of Virginia wine.