For every great celebration, there’s a toast. So, for the 20^th Anniversary of West Virginia Fruit and Berry, it’s only fitting that they expand their offerings by featuring four new wines with which to toast. Since 1995, Bob and Becky Titchenal have been making West Virginia Fruit and Berry part of our community. They have evolved from fruit growers to marketers to distributing their signature products all over the world.  Now, they are expanding into the wine business as well.

 

For those who attend fairs and festivals all over West Virginia and surrounding states, you may be familiar with the Titchenals. They are the face behind the company and, throughout their 20 years in business, have traveled the region to offer samples of their products in person.The products, which include jellies, jams, preserves, butters, ciders and more, have become family favorites and led to sales throughout the United States and beyond. 

 

In 1998, the Titchenals relocated the business to Bridgeport, with a focus on both practicing and promoting alternative sustainable agriculture for small family farms. Instead of competing against the other agricultural producers in the state, they formed a network of producers who offer support to each other. 

 

The business then expanded to a brick and mortar location on the farm with The Berry Patch Gift Shop.  This gives the public access to the farm and the full line of products as well as other West Virginia-made merchandise. They also offer gift baskets, samples and corporate gifts on site.

 

Now located in over 200 locations, West Virginia Fruit and Berry has become one of the best sellers in the state, offering consistent quality with no preservatives. The award-winning products have been featured in magazines, newspapers and television shows over the years and have won more than a dozen Best of Taste categories. 

 

“As we approached our 20^th Anniversary, we began to develop the new line of wines. We wanted to offer the same great flavors we grew up with and offer them locally,” said Titchenal.  After nearly a year of development, the four flavors, which are now offered, include Mountain Blackberry Wine, Wild and Wonderful Red Raspberry Wine, Luscious Cherry Blossom Wine, and Uncle Jake’s Elderberry Wine. 

 

Northern Eagle and Mountain State Beverage of West Virginia both distribute the wine to local retailers throughout the state.  Tastings are available upon request by contacting West Virginia Fruit and Berry or by stopping by The Berry Patch. Dedicated to staying in Bridgeport and showcasing the tastes of West Virginia, the Titchenals continue their efforts to develop products that satisfy the tastes of our area.

 

Editor's Note: Photos courtesy of West Virginia Fruit and Berry's Facebook page.