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Valley Vineyards & Winery--"Where it's always a good year for new friends"By Susen Foster Our journey this month took us on a side trip off Interstate 35 just south of Oklahoma City. Exit 72 at Pauls Valley is the turnoff for one of Oklahoma's newest wineries; one whose future looks deliciously rosy. The lush grape vines and elegant tasting room of Valley Vineyards & Winery are easily visible from the interstate and an interesting collection of signs on barns and by-ways helped guide us to their inviting front door. In the charming tasting room, sunlight glistened on beautiful bottles of VV Chardonnay, Merlot and White Zinfandel, and danced its way across the high ceiling to bounce off the colorful stained glass behind the bar. Inviting in all seasons, fans cooled us from the summer heat and a wood stove sat ready to chase away the approaching winter gloom. Owner and winemaker, Chauncey Klingensmith, proudly showed us around the winery sharing the tale of two families who pooled their resources to create this wonderful new addition to the Arbuckle Mountain region.  As we tasted wines and perused unique wine accessories in the gift shop, Chauncey made it clear that this dream could not have come to fruition without the partnership of his wife Joanna, her brother Jay Shumate and his wife Lisa, and the family matriarch Anna Lee Shumate. Back in the 1920s, before the impact of the dust bowl and prohibition took their toll, winemaking played a significant role in Oklahoma's economy. Today, determination in the field and a strong association of grape growers has helped the industry make a much welcomed comeback for agriculture and tourism. One of the first things we had noticed as we entered the grounds at Valley Vineyards was the attention that had been paid to outdoor appeal. It was obvious that this place was built with social events in mind. A lattice covered patio sports multiple "conversation" areas, including a fire pit and several chimineas. It is surrounded by a large swath of grass that works its way up a slight embankment--setting the scene for intimate vineyard concerts. In addition, the tasting room is well suited for weddings, parties and special occasions year round. Valley Vineyards & Winery is destined to become a favorite spot for small group conferences and reunions as well a popular destination for palates yearning for a luxurious wine moment. To plan your own special event at Valley Vineyards & Winery, or to get on their mailing list, call 405-207-9829. Other reasons to take Exit 72 off Interstate 35 in Oklahoma include the world's only Toy & Action Figure Museum, boutiques, antiques, and the Santa Fe Depot Museum in historic downtown Pauls Valley, and a taste bud tempting gift shop at bedré Chocolates (Exit 70). For more information on Pauls Valley visit www.paulsvalley.com or call 405-238-6491. Editor's note: Susen Foster is the owner of Greater Success Advertising. She is the author of numerous travel books. Susen can be reached at www.greatersuccess.com or call 580-622-5408. 10/15/07 Date: 10/8/07 Advertisement
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