Gryffon's Aerie

About Gryffon's Aerie

Gryffon's Aerie is family owned and operated in central Virginia where we raise heritage breeds such as Milking Devon, Beef Devon and Belted Galloway cattle, Tamworth pigs and Cotswold sheep. We have one of the few Milking and Beef Devon breeding operations in Virginia. Our cattle and sheep are raised on lush pastures from birth to finish and never receive hormones, or unnecessary antibiotics, pesticides, herbicides, or grain which may contain animal by-products. During the winter months we rotate them to pastures stockpiled with cool season grasses and legumes. Our natural pork and poultry are all free-range. The Tamworth pigs are known as the "Irish grazers" and most of their diet is high quality clover, lespedeza and other legumes. These pigs are friendly, intelligent, highly vocal and take particular delight in a good belly rub. They are the "personalities of the barnyard." Our animals are never separated from their mothers; natural weaning is paramount. Although it may put our breeding production slightly behind, we feel that it makes for a healthier, happier livestock. The animals are not just our livelihood; they are our companions and our responsibility. It is our mission to raise and harvest them in a stress-free and respectful environment. All the meat is processed at USDA facilities that meet our strict humane slaughtering guidelines. Nothing is wasted. Bones are used to make stocks and demi-glace, the hides are tanned, and wool is spun into yarns. It is all part of our mission, and that of the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy, to protect the genetic diversity of livestock and preserve the integrity of these animals. You can purchase our products directly from the farm or in Charlottesville at Feast, in Newport News at Health Trails. Nationwide shipping is available through our website and our products are served in the finest restaurants in the state. We are located just 2.5 miles north of Interstate 64 on Route 15, just 20 minutes east of Charlottesville and 40 minutes west of Richmond. Farm visits encouraged; please call ahead.