Charlottesville organic farms are sprouting up everywhere as our local dining has become hip to farm-to-table dining and insisting on grass-fed, humanely-raised animals, organic goat cheese, eggs, vineyards, and vegetables.
Musician, Dave Matthews of the world-famous DMB, owns Best of What’s Around! Farm. In 2003 the Matthews placed the farms 1261 acres under a protective land conservation easement, thereby safeguarding it against any possible development, and then set themselves to organic farming it.
With 44 goats, Caromont Farm makes some of the finest goat cheese in America.
For spectacular views of Charlottesville, visit Carter Mountain Orchard (open April through December). They offer pick-your-own and already-picked peaches, nectarines, and apples.
Sussex Farm sells the best kimchi and other Korean staples around.
Timbercreek Farm raises grass-finished cattle on rolling grasslands divided by hardwood forest. Their herd consists of New Zealand Angus-Tarentaise cross, two breeds that produce amazing meat when finished on grasses. These breeds thrive on the native cool-season grasses of Virginia and high-energy seasonal annuals.
Longbottom Farm specializes in grass-fed beef, pastured pork, pastured poultry, and free-range eggs and is located in Scottsville.
The Davis soil in Albemarle County is perfect for growing grapes; and today there are over 18 local vineyards, many of which are going organic. Wild clover enriches the soil, ensuring the continuing sustainability of the growing system.
Many of our local organic farms sell at the Charlottesville Farmers Market (Saturdays, May 15 – November 20
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM) however if you miss that you can head west to Greenwood (just past Crozet) to the Greenwood Gourmet Grocery where they have committed to buying local produce from more than 75 local organic farms. Yummy!!!
I have been a Charlottesville realtor specializing in local organic farms since 2003. Talk to me if you are looking for land or a farm
