Welcome to La Belle Amie Vineyard, a place where history and nature blend seamlessly with the art of winemaking. Located in Little River, South Carolina, this vineyard is a testament to enduring family traditions and the resilience of those who have cultivated the land for generations. The story of La Belle Amie Vineyard begins with Vicki, its current owner, who transformed her family inheritance into a flourishing vineyard. Vicki’s journey to establish the vineyard was anything but straightforward. In 1993, she moved from Houston, Texas, to Little River to care for her mother Berta, inheriting the family farm. Her ancestors hailed from the south of France, bringing with them a rich tradition of winemaking that would lay the foundation for what would become La Belle Amie.
The vineyard’s roots, however, run deeper than Vicki’s vision. Her Uncle Gifford was a key figure in preserving the family’s winemaking tradition. Known for his generosity, Gifford’s wine was beloved by locals, and he often shared it freely with friends and neighbors. The wooden barrel he used to craft his wines still sits proudly on the porch of the vineyard’s shop, a tangible piece of the vineyard’s history.
Vicki’s ambitious project began in 1995 with the planting of Vineyard #1, followed by Vineyard #2 in 1996. Nature, however, had its own plans. The late 1990s were marked by a series of devastating hurricanes, including Hurricanes Fran and Floyd, which tested the vineyard’s resilience. Despite the setbacks, Vicki’s determination saw the vineyard through these turbulent times. By 2001, Vineyard #3 was planted, symbolizing hope and growth for the future.
Today, La Belle Amie Vineyard stands as a popular tourist attraction and a cherished part of the local community. Visitors can explore the vineyard, enjoy wine tastings, and learn about the unique history that ties this land to the traditions of the past. It’s not just a place for wine; it’s a living history lesson, where each glass is a nod to the perseverance and passion of those who have nurtured the vines over the decades.
