- Feb 5, 2002
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MONONGAHELA, Pa. — As you climb out of the valley in this riverfront town, the railroad tracks and patchwork of industries become a distant memory as lush woodlands overtake the roadways. Suddenly they give way to a stone villa tucked into the hillside, surrounded by a clearing filled with acres and acres of grapevines. It looks like a postcard from Tuscany.
Welcome to Ripepi Winery and Vineyard, a sprawling family operation that began as a way for Rich Ripepi to remain connected to the traditions of winemaking brought here from Italy by his grandfather. It has become an award-winning winery located right here in Appalachia.
“This all started because of Prohibition,” said Mr. Ripepi, pointing to the fields behind him. “When Prohibition came, the law came that you were allowed to make 200 gallons of wine per family; naturally, all the Italians said, ‘Well, we’re going to start making wine!’”
Continued below.
www.post-gazette.com
Welcome to Ripepi Winery and Vineyard, a sprawling family operation that began as a way for Rich Ripepi to remain connected to the traditions of winemaking brought here from Italy by his grandfather. It has become an award-winning winery located right here in Appalachia.
“This all started because of Prohibition,” said Mr. Ripepi, pointing to the fields behind him. “When Prohibition came, the law came that you were allowed to make 200 gallons of wine per family; naturally, all the Italians said, ‘Well, we’re going to start making wine!’”
Continued below.
Salena Zito: Wines and mines in the Mon Valley
MONONGAHELA, Pa. — As you climb out of the valley in this riverfront town, the railroad tracks and patchwork of industries become a distant...
www.post-gazette.com
