At sherwood, we farm in harmony with nature.
Water and sunlight grow grass. Cows transform grass into protein. They fertilize and aerate the ground they live on, and the cycle repeats.
That's sustainability.
The Farm
Located in the rolling foothills of Albemarle County, Sherwood Farm boasts ideal conditions for raising cattle.
Our moderate climate provides ample natural grazing for much of the year as well as plentiful hay and corn silage grown on the farm for Winter nourishment.
The Herd
Happier cows make better meat. We have devoted a decade to developing a herd that produces superior beef animals: structurally sound bodies with a larger rib area and extensive marbling. While not certified organic, we do not administer growth hormones and we treat each one of our animals with a level of care and attention that is not possible on large commercial farms.
Our animals spend their days grazing lush pastures and drinking fresh well water.
Most of our females are listed in the American Angus Registry. Unlike all large industrial farms, we leave our bulls “whole,” sparing the male calves the stress of surgery.
The Food
Beef aficionados appreciate the tenderness and enhanced flavor profile of dry aged beef. Though costly and time-consuming, we dry age our beef for at least 28 days, producing what one Charlottesville chef claims is the best beef he has ever eaten. We think you should find out for yourself.
Who We Are
The original Sherwood Manor home was built in 1835 on land that was part of the original John Carter patent. It burned in 1900, but two period structures remain: a brick dependency and a rare round ice house.
The current owners have placed a conservation easement on the property, ensuring it will retain its rural, agricultural character in perpetuity.
John Lewis, Farm Owner
Farm Owner John Lewis's grandfather was a Virginia Cattleman of the Year, John's father was a part-time attorney and farmer in Powhatan, Virginia, and John now carries the family tradition into a third generation.
Livestock
Each year, we also offer a handful of bulls through private sale. In addition to superior marbling and rib area, our genetics promise calving ease, high percentile weaning weight, and the full spectrum of value-building beef traits. Sherwood genetics mean performance.
