Virginia’s interest in wine making dates back to colonial times when the British government required colonists to make wine. All attempts failed as a result of the colonists using European wine grapes which had trouble thriving in the new world. Colonists gave up believing that wine could be produced in the colonies. Then in 1873 a Virginia wine produced with native American grapes grabbed the title of “Best Red Wine of all Nations” at the Vienna World’s Fair and interest in wine making in Virginia was renewed. Today Virginia boasts over 300 wineries with more than a dozen tours and wine trails to explore. Below we review 3 of the best wineries from Northern Virginia, Central Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley regions.
Northern Virginia
Breaux Vineyards
Breaux Vineyards is a family owned Virginia Vineyard located in Purcellville about an hour and a half from Washington DC. The vineyard consists of 17 varieties of grapes grown on 104 acres of a 404 acre property. Cozily situated amongst the hills, the vines extend up Short Hill Mountain. Enjoy stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains while sipping a glass of wine in the tasting room, on landscaped terraces or on the Patio Madeleine.
Bluemont Vineyard
This family owned vineyard and winery is located just an hour and fifteen minutes from Washington DC. Perched along a ridge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the winery offers amazing views of grape vines running up the mountainside, beautiful views of the farm, orchard and surrounding countryside. Relax and enjoy these amazing views from their tasting room or beautiful patios. You could even make it a weekend retreat and rent one of their cozy cottages.
Rappahannock Cellar
This stunning family owned winery situated at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains is less than an hour and a half drive from Washington DC. These transplants from California produce European and port style wines. Enjoy the sweeping views of the vineyards and rolling hills while sipping wine on the patio or at the winery’s picnic areas.
Central Virginia
Veritas Vineyard and Winery
Veritas Vineyard and Winery is a family winery located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Relax in the sun on the deck while sipping a glass of their delicious wine. Veritas offers a variety of events such as Starry Nights (enjoy music under the stars), a Masked Ball on New Year’s Eve, winemakers dinners and library tastings.
Barboursville Vineyards
Making its home on an 18th century estate located between Jefferson’s Monticello and James Madison’s Montpelier, the winery was founded in 1976. Extending 120 acres, the vineyard consists of predominantly Bordeaux grapes. Enjoy sipping wine while strolling the beautiful grounds, an intimate picnic or spend some time in the elegant tasting room. Spend the weekend and stay in one of the suites in The 1804 Inn or in one of the charming suites at The Cottages.
King Family Vineyards
The family owned and operated King Family Vineyards is located just 15 minutes from Charlottesville in Crozet, Va. Enjoy a self guided tasting on a first come first serve basis or make reservations for a Reserved Tasting which takes place in the Library Room. For a behind the scenes look at the vineyard and wine making process sign up for a winery tour and tasting.
Shenandoah Valley
Bluestone Vineyards
Bluestone Vineyards is situated amongst the Allegheny Mountains. The tasting room is located at the top of a hill and offers stunning views of the mountains and the winery below. Enjoy watching the sunset while sipping a glass of wine on the patio warmed by a fireplace and two fire pits. The winery offers a variety of events including a seminar about Riedel’s wine glassware and a visiting winemakers series called Wine Amongst Friends.
CrossKeys Vineyards
CrossKeys Vineyards is a family owned 125 acres winery in a Tuscan-style villa located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. Take advantage of CrossKeys informative wine tastings or learn about the winemaking process on one of their educational winery tours. At any time you can relax, sipping a glass of wine while enjoying sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The Winery at Kindred Pointe
Enjoy a leisurely weekend scenic drive along the back roads that will bring you to the Winery at Kindred Pointe. Make a reservation to enjoy a private interactive wine tasting at The Stables or simply relax with a glass of wine and experience the amazing views that the property has to offer. In the evening enjoy a romantic picnic while watching the sun set or on a chilly day call ahead to reserve a fire pit and cozy up next to a roaring fire.
Virginia is home to amazing wineries in every part of the state. No matter what area of Virginia you choose to visit or which winery you wish to explore you will be surrounded by beauty. Make a plan to enjoy one of the many wineries Virginia has to offer. Relax, sip a lovely wine and enjoy spectacular views.
