Heritage House B&B Blog

The Power of Travel

In the March 2008 issue of National Geographic's Traveler, Keith Bellows shares some insightful dialogue from his interview with travel writer Andrew Harper.  When Bellows asks, "How do you feel about the power of travel?"  Harper replies:

"If I had a choice between sending someone to travel the world and sending him to college, I would send him around the wolrd.  You will learn far more about the world by traveling, far more about your own life, what the future of this world is.  More solutions to problems like global warming, poverty and war would result if people did more traveling, because that is how you find out that others are just like you.  They want peace.  They want decent jobs.  They want to make the world a better place for their children.  Having traveled all these years, I've concluded that the citizens of the world are far more open and tolerant and hospitable than governments, overall.   Most people are kind, generous and open-hearted.  They really want to welcome you.  What is interesting is that the poorer the country, the more generous the people.  That is one of those remarkable things in life."

2nd Annual A CAUSE FOR PAWS is a Success!!!

Happy New Year!  We wish you all a year of Health, Happiness & Prosperity. 

Also, a big THANK YOU to all of the guests who purchased raffle tickets & helped make our 2nd annual A Cause for Paws a real success!  Purchases of the $5 Raffle Tickets helped raise over $2,100 to go towards the Rappahannock Animal Welfare League's efforts to control the cat population of our County (http://rawldogs.org/).  All prizes and overhead expenses were donated, so 100% of raffle ticket sales went directly into the R.A.W.L. Feline Spay & Neuter Fund. 

We've raised a total of $5,320 in the 2 years since Gary & I created the raffle fundraiser in memory of our incredible cat, Toby, who was killed by a car in 2006.  (He was one of Miss Kitty's five "babies" and he was the hands-down guests' favorite - he was very friendly, funny and, basically, thought he was a dog.)   This year's winner, Jeanie McNear, was awarded a romantic package for two including dinner at THE INN AT LITTLE WASHINGTON and a 1-night stay here at the Heritage House B&B.  She purchased her ticket  at our local vet, Rose Hill Vet (http://rosehillvet.com/).

Halloween at the Heritage House B&B

Halloween in "Little" Washington is always a festive holiday.  Our little town of 285 residents expands increases by approximately 400 children and their parents, all trick-or-treating at businesses and residences.  A good deal of the innkeepers and shopkeepers dress up, too.  Gary & I always dress up - it gives us a chance to be kids again - and the kids love it!  This year, Gary was "General Grant" and I was "Roxy, the Flapper." 

The Theatre at Washington, Virginia featured on WETA fm!

The Theatre at Washington, Virginia is home to a series of plays and classical music concerts that draw a legion of fans from the metro D.C. area. It is located across the street from the Heritage House B&B. 

With the 2007-2008 season presently underway, owner/director Wendy Weinberg was asked to speak with WETA's Twana James about The Theatre's repetoire and the fascinating history of "Little" Washington. 

As planned, they boiled down the 10-minute interview to about 3 minutes -- thereby omitting some of the several good reasons she gave for visiting Rappahannock County  - including our fine local B&Bs. :-) 

Here is a link which should enable you to listen to the interview on WETA's website.  The webpage is entitled "Current Topics" and the listing is "Little Theatre/ Big Talent."       http://weta.org/outandabout

The Theatre at Washington, Virginia's website:

http://www.theatre-washington-va.com/

Virginia Wineries Featured in "Travel & Leisure" magagzine!

In the July 2007 issue of "Travel & Leisure" magazine, Bruce Schoenfeld toasted Virginia as one of the top five up-and-coming worldwide destinations for wine-related tourism along with locations in Italy, Spain, Chile, and New Zealand.  Wow! Such impressive company!  This international recognition is long overdue for our local wineries such as Linden Vineyards & Barboursville Vineyards (their's is the private label house wine at The Inn at Little Washington). 

The article also recommended travelers eat at The Inn at Little Washington.  Schoenfeld raves, "Sumptuous, if rather overdecorated, and Patrick O’Connell’s cooking is justifiably famous."

A few years ago, "Wine Spectator" Magazine referred to this area as "The East Coast Napa" and named our local wineries - Linden & Barboursville in particular - as ones slated to give Napa a run-for-its-money in the near future.

So, if you arrive in the area early, you may want to visit some of our local award-winning wineries. We highly recommend Linden Vineyards, Rappahannock Cellars, Gadino Cellars & Barborsville Vineyards.  You can access their websites from our website, www.heritagehousebb.com.  Cheers!

Celebrate Spring!

Come celebrate Spring in Rappahannock County!  As the trees, forsythia and flowering bulbs start to bloom, our undeveloped county becomes one of the most stunningly beautiful of the Virginia destinations.  For the hikers, views from Shenandoah National Park are breathtaking.  Plan to come out early, hike one of the park's many trails - views from Mary's Rock are panoramic - and, then, have dinner at THE INN AT LITTLE WASHINGTON or one of our other favorite local restaurants.

For those of you who like to run or walk, circle April 21st on your calendars as the date for this year's Fodderstack 10K Race.  This race is an annual run or walk through the glorious hills of Rappahannock County.  The Starting Line is in the small village of Flint Hill and the race ends in "Little" Washington.   Proceeds from this race are the primary source of funding for our local park.  For more information, please see the event website at http://www.fodderstack10k.com .

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!  Wishing you all a happy, healthy 2007! 

Come visit us this weekend for a relaxing winter getaway.  Mid-week rates are discounted. 

Heritage House B&B in Pearmund Cellars December Newsletter!

News for December 2006

"Let us celebrate the occasion with wine and sweet words." 
-- Plautus

Our Events & Tastings
Here We Come A-Wassailing! $4.50 Saturday, December 16th, 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Pearmund Cellars and Winery at La Grange Reservations (10+ Guests):  540-347-3475 or Email	Bleu Rock Wine Dinner, $75 + tax & tip, menu Friday, January 26th, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. Blue Rock Inn, Washington, VA Reservations: 540-987-3190
Private Tastings - Social or Corporate - Up to 50 Guests, details Our Festive Barrel Room Reservations:  540-347-3475 or Email
Our Products
At Pearmund Cellars, our garlands are hung and our tree is trimmed. We're anxiously awaiting the arrival of friends and family to help us celebrate this magical season. Whether you want to relax after shopping at the mall or ignore the mall altogether and just shop at the winery, our staff is ready to make your day peaceful and joyous. Just stop by the tasting room to sample our holiday flight of wines and enjoy our holiday spirit. We have embroidered wine apparel, Wino Xing signs, and wine-themed paraphernalia to please all the discerning wine afficionados in your life. We even offer festive gift wraps! It's hard to pick a favorite wine at Pearmund Cellars, but our winter visitors seem to enjoy our Petite Verdot and our Vin de Sol. With blackberry aromas and a smooth finish, our 2005 Petite Verdot is earthy, warm, and rustic. Our 2005 Vin de Sol tastes like a handful of fresh roasted almonds! This "sun kissed" apertif, made like an old-world sherry, is comprised of 100% Late Harvest Viognier. Both wines are guaranteed to take the chill out of winter days ahead. Buy several to enjoy by the fire or share as holiday presents for your loved ones. Our Celebrate the Season! Three-Pack (2003 Ameritage, 2004 Cabernet Franc, 2005 Viognier) is back by popular demand. At $40, this special package makes a great gift and pairs well with your favorite holiday treats. Of course, we also have gift certificates if you want to include a romantic wine dinner or other winery services with your three-pack. Just pick any denomination from $10 to $10,000.
Our Process
The vines are dormant, and we put our lawn mower away for the winter. Inside the winery, we are washing all the lugs, carboys, bins, and other equipment used for winemaking. Other winter tasks include topping off barrels, bottling dessert wines, making table tops, and finishing many other tasks that were put aside during the harvest season.
Our People
Here we come a-wassailing!  On December 16th, warm up with the staff of Pearmund Cellars and the Winery at La Grange. We will be offering piping-hot wassail and La Grange will be featuring fragrant mulled wine for $4.50 per serving. Experience the tradition of sharing holiday cheer, enjoying tasty treats, and listening to holiday carols. Any festive singing is up to you! Here are some words if you want to start practicing:  "Love and joy come to you, And to you your wassail too; And God bless you and send you a Happy New Year."
Our Partners & Retailers
Partner:  Do you have bottles of wine with no idea about when they will reach maturity? How can you find out without tasting a bottle every year?  WineAging.com provides the following information on many vintage wines: how long they should be held back, when they are best to consume, and when they should be drunk because have surpassed their maturity. Find your favorite wineries by country and check your favorite wines from Pearmund Cellars. Wine Store:  Since 1836, the Locke Store has served the local community as a meeting place and reliable source of quality goods. In 2002, Juliet Mackay-Smith purchased the historic store and expanded its culinary offerings to include full-service catering, fine foods-to-go, carefully-selected wines, bi-monthly tastings, farm-fresh produce, and organic meats. The country store's service-oriented, friendly, and knowledgeable staff will make your shopping experience pleasant and satisfying. We know this first hand:  they catered last month's Beast Feasts! Restaurant: After cutting their teeth at the Inn at Little Washington, three friends started Foti's Restaurant in Culpeper, Virginia. Chef Frank Maragos provides the artistic, culinary inspiration while Sue Wilson hosts the excellent dining service, and Tyler Packwood manages the growing wine cellar. Providing contemporary American cuisine with a Mediterranean touch, Foti's uses the best local ingredients to create flavors and textures that remind people of their favorite home-style meal. Try their rack of lamb with your favorite Pearmund Cellars wine. Inn:  Built in 1837, the Heritage House served as Confederate headquarters for General Jubal Early. A gracious bed and breakfast since 1985, the antique-filled house boasts five themed guest rooms, private baths, delicious breakfasts, and a superb location in the beautiful foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Bring back a bottle of Pearmund Cellars wine from your Inn at Little Washington dinner to enjoy while relaxing in your comfortable room.
Our Industry
Dominion Power and Allegheny Power want to build 125-foot transmission towers every 1000 feet to carry 500,000-volt power lines from southwestern Pennsylvania to northwestern Virginia. The Virginia portion of this power corridor would cut through Warren, Fauquier, Prince William, and Loudoun counties. WeWontGlow.com states, "Whether these power lines affect your home and property value directly or not, the many issues in this battle, including the precedent of private entity condemnation powers, preservation of conservation areas and scenic vistas, and the protection of sensitive wetland areas and historically significant property, have a profound impact on every citizen of Virginia and the Country.  To join the thousands who have already signed the petition in opposition to the powerlines, click here."  The comprehensive website tells how to get involved and where to write local officials. It also provides articles, websites, and a mailing list to stay informed.

A Slide Show from Our Guest

Following is a great slide show from a guest who stayed with us during the Fall.  The majority of the shots were taken at THE INN AT LITTLE WASHINGTON.  There are a few shots of the exterior and interior of the Heritage House B&B.  Enjoy!

http://photoshow.comcast.net/watch/wS3Xa7nI

Heritage House Website Pictures & Amenities

Lately, we have had a number of guests comment that our website pictures don't do us justice.  Our response may surprise you - as it does them.  "We have made a conscious decision to UNDER SELL our establishment."  Yes, under sell. 

We made this decision some time ago based on our own travels (and ethics).  Also, Michelle has an M.B.A. in Planning & Marketing, so she is very aware of "Truth in Advertising."  We often felt that many websites over sold and that the pictures on many establishments' websites misled us.  Consequently, we were always disappointed. 

We assure you that "What You See is What You Get" when you look at the information and pictures on our website.  For instance, Heritage House B&B is located  in the heart of the historic district, just 1 short walking block down Main Street from THE INN AT LITTLE WASHINGTON.  Our picture truthfully shows us fronting Main Street and you will recognize us when you arrive.  Also, some of our rooms are larger than others - that is why we have 2 King Beds in the Lace and Jubal Early Rooms.  Our pictures truthfully reflect the sizes of the rooms - no fancy camera tricks or angles to make the rooms look larger.  Truthfully.  What you see is actually what you get (or according to many of our guests, what you get is better than what you see!).

Also, many guests have suggested that we update our website to include our many Amenities.  (Our webmaster is revising our website at the moment.)  In the meantime, please be aware that ALL ROOM RATES INCLUDE:

A delicious gourmet breakfast; Complimentary (and Unlimited) Wine, Beer, Port, Sodas, Spring Water, Lemonade, Teas, etc. stocked in our Butler Area and in the Guest Clubhouse.  Wireless Internet is provided at no charge.  We stock each  Private bathroom with Gilchrist & Soames Spa Bath Products.  All rooms have self-controlled A/C, CD Players, Spa Robes, a minimum of 4 Pillows and extremely soft Laura Ashley bath linens.  We provide Turn Down service nightly.  Irons and hairdryers are provided upon request.  We can also arrange Flowers, Champagne and In-Room Massage upon request.  Both of us love when guests allow us to play "Concierge" and help with their travel itineraries.  That about sums it up.

Until next time . . .  Michelle & Gary