Domaine Fortier Vineyards

Stephen and Jennifer Fortier purchased their 34-acre Catoctin Valley property in 2018 and have built Domaine Fortier Vineyards around estate-grown fruit, thoughtful farming and a commitment to producing distinctive Virginia wines. The vineyard’s first estate harvest came in 2023. Stephen Fortier serves as winemaker and directs the production of Domaine Fortier wines.

Loudoun County, VA Loudoun grown Trade available

The story

The estate

The 34-acre property sits in the Catoctin Valley between Short Hill Mountain and Furnace Mountain, with 10 acres under vine. The vineyard includes Bordeaux varieties along with Tannat and Petit Manseng. Stephen brings an unusual combination of technical and winemaking expertise to the vineyard. He holds a Doctor of Science in systems engineering and completed the UC Davis Certificate Program in Wine Production, applying a disciplined, analytical approach to both viticulture and winemaking.

Winemaking

Stephen Fortier is the winemaker for Domaine Fortier Vineyards and directs all aspects of the production of Domaine Fortier wines. From vineyard and harvest decisions through fermentation, blending, aging and final wine style, Stephen guides the winemaking program with an emphasis on balance, elegance and varietal expression.

Domaine Fortier wines are currently produced at Walsh Family Wine, where Stephen works with the production team and oversees the winemaking process for the Domaine Fortier portfolio.

The goal is straightforward: to produce wines that express the quality of the fruit, the character of the Catoctin Valley terroir and Domaine Fortier’s own winemaking philosophy.

Recognition

Domaine Fortier has earned growing recognition for its wines in Virginia and beyond. The winery received two Gold medals at the 2026 Virginia Governor’s Cup for the 2017 Cabernet Franc Reserve and 2023 Les Quatre. These wines also won Gold medals from the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Six Domaine Fortier wines have earned 90 points or better from James Suckling, including 92 points for the 2017 Cabernet Franc Reserve. Domaine Fortier has also received recognition for its Petit Manseng, including being named Best Petit Manseng in Loudoun.

The team

Domaine Fortier Vineyards

Stephen Fortier

Owner, Winemaker & Estate Grower

Stephen Fortier is the owner, winemaker and estate grower behind Domaine Fortier Vineyards. His path to winemaking began with a technical career and a Doctor of Science in systems engineering, followed by formal wine education through the UC Davis Certificate Program in Wine Production.

From the cellar