Virginia is home to some of the nation’s most charming and scenic vineyards. With its rich history and picturesque landscapes, the state offers wine enthusiasts a delightful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Planning a visit to Virginia’s vineyards can be a rewarding experience, with each location providing unique wines and beautiful settings.
What are the best vineyards to visit in Virginia? This list highlights the top ten vineyards that stand out for their wine quality, visitor experiences, and stunning views. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or a curious newcomer, these vineyards promise a memorable adventure.
1) Barboursville Vineyards
Barboursville Vineyards sits in the scenic heart of Virginia’s wine country. Travelers flock here not just for the delicious wines, but for the history that goes back to its founding in 1976 by Gianni Zonin, inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s dream.
The vineyard spans over 500 hectares. Around 90 of those are dedicated to vineyards. Visitors can enjoy a variety of wine tasting experiences that highlight the estate’s most popular selections, such as their award-winning Octagon wine.
Historic ruins on the property add to the charm. They include the remnants of the Barboursville Mansion, designed by Thomas Jefferson. This adds a touch of American heritage to the wine-tasting experience.
The tasting room offers a cozy spot to sample these wines, paired with seasonal fare sourced from local farms. Regulars appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff who provide insights into each pour.
Shipping deals are available for larger orders, making it easy to bring home a taste of Virginia. Enthusiasts from Virginia to New York can enjoy free shipping on specific orders. For more details, you can visit their official website.
2) King Family Vineyards
King Family Vineyards is a gem located in Crozet, Virginia. Known for its award-winning wines, it’s a favorite on the Monticello Wine Trail. Visitors enjoy not only the wine but also the gorgeous views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The vineyard is family-owned, adding a touch of warmth and hospitality. It’s set on a lovely farm near Charlottesville, making it a perfect spot for a day trip. The estate offers a unique experience with polo matches, which are very popular among guests.
Wine tastings at King Family Vineyards are a special treat. For $10, visitors can sample five different wines. There’s also an option to buy reserve wines from the Library Room, catering to the tastes of seasoned wine enthusiasts.
People love to visit for the intimate atmosphere and the stunning landscape. It’s easy to spend a lazy afternoon here, sipping wine and enjoying the beautiful scenery. The vineyard also welcomes families and groups, making it an inclusive place for celebrations and gatherings.
For more information, check out King Family Vineyards on their official website.
3) Jefferson Vineyards
Jefferson Vineyards is located in Charlottesville, Virginia. This vineyard boasts a history dating back to 1774 when Thomas Jefferson and Filippo Mazzei started Virginia’s first commercial wine company.
The winery has been run by the Woodward family for three generations. They celebrated their 40th year in 2022, marking decades of winemaking excellence.
Visitors to Jefferson Vineyards can enjoy wine tastings of their award-winning wines. The estate is especially known for its Bordeaux-style blends and other premium wines.
The vineyard is an unforgettable stop for anyone exploring Virginia’s wine country. Explore historic ruins and lush vineyards while sipping on some of Virginia’s finest wines.
For those interested, detailed information can be found on their official website.
4) Keswick Vineyards
Keswick Vineyards is a family-owned winery situated near Charlottesville, Virginia. Established in 2000, this vineyard has quickly gained a reputation for producing exceptional wines. Their first vintage, released in 2002, won the title of “Best White Wine in America” at the Atlanta International Wine Summit.
Visitors at Keswick Vineyards can enjoy wine tastings, guided tours, and various events. The vineyard offers wine by the bottle, glass, or flight. Their in-house food truck is available from Wednesday to Sunday, serving delicious snacks to pair with the wine.
Keswick Vineyards is open seven days a week from 10 AM to 5 PM, but it’s closed on major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Easter. The vineyard provides a beautiful setting with a rich history dating back to the Civil War era.
The winery’s commitment to quality has earned it two Governor’s Cups and several Gold, Double Gold, and Platinum awards. Keswick Vineyards offers an unforgettable experience for wine lovers who enjoy exploring the scenic beauty and rich history of Virginia wine country.
For more information, visit Keswick Vineyards.
5) Veritas Vineyards & Winery
Veritas Vineyards & Winery is known for its award-winning wines and beautiful location in Charlottesville, Virginia. Nestled in the heart of Virginia wine country, this winery offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Visitors can relax on the sun-drenched deck and enjoy live music or cozy up in an igloo during festive winter evenings. This family-friendly winery is ideal for a visit year-round.
The tasting room features a Virginia table menu with seasonal fare, sourced from local farms, which pairs perfectly with their premium wines.
For special occasions, Veritas also hosts stunning vineyard weddings, making it a sought-after destination for couples looking to tie the knot amidst the beauty of the vineyards.
Learn more about what makes Veritas special by visiting their official website.
6) Early Mountain Vineyards
Early Mountain Vineyards stands out for its commitment to quality and the unique expression of its land. Located in Madison, Virginia, this vineyard is now a key player in the state’s wine culture.
Jean and Steve Case, the owners, have turned the vineyard into a top destination for wine lovers. Their efforts have paid off, making it a place where visitors can enjoy world-class wines.
Winemaker Maya Hood White leads the talented team that listens to what the vine, soil, and climate tell them. This careful crafting results in exceptional wines that reflect the best of Virginia’s terroir.
Visitors can explore the award-winning wines in many ways. Stop by their tasting room or check out select wine shops and restaurants in DC, Virginia, New York, and beyond. Their online shop also offers a wide selection.
The vineyard is open Thursday through Monday, from 11 am to 5:30 pm. It’s often voted the #1 tasting room in America, making it a must-visit spot for anyone interested in wine and culinary experiences.
Plan your visit to Early Mountain Vineyards and see why it’s considered one of Virginia’s premier vineyards. For more details, check out Early Mountain Vineyards.
7) Chrysalis Vineyards
Chrysalis Vineyards is a standout winery located in Middleburg, Virginia. It is well-known for its dedication to the Norton grape, boasting the world’s largest planting of this unique variety. This commitment makes Chrysalis a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring Virginia’s wine heritage.
Visitors to Chrysalis can enjoy a wide selection of artisan wines. The winery offers a cozy tasting room and a beautiful outdoor area with stunning views of the Virginia countryside.
One unique aspect of Chrysalis Vineyards is its full menu, which includes artisan cheeses, meats, and other prepared items. These offerings are grown and produced on the property, providing a truly local experience.
Chrysalis also experiments with other premium grape varieties like Albariño. This diverse choice ensures that there is something for every wine lover.
Chrysalis has earned praise and recognition over the years. It was noted among Northern Virginia’s best by the Washington Post and received positive reviews in Hugh Johnson’s wine guide. While it rarely competes in major tasting events, many visitors appreciate the quality and selection available.
For more information, check out Chrysalis Vineyards at the Virginia Vacation Guide or the detailed Armchair Sommelier review.
8) Glen Manor Vineyards
Glen Manor Vineyards is a gem near Front Royal, Virginia. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s just a 10-minute drive from Front Royal along Route 340.
This vineyard offers a beautiful setting for wine lovers. The scenic views make it a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon.
Visitors often rave about the high-quality wines produced at Glen Manor. The vineyard is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Merlot. Each wine reflects the unique terroir of the region.
Glen Manor not only produces great wine but also provides a memorable experience. The tasting room staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to share insights about the wines.
It’s a must-visit destination for those exploring Virginia’s wine country. Glen Manor Vineyards promises a delightful blend of stunning views and exceptional wines.
Visit the official website for more information.
9) Blenheim Vineyards
Blenheim Vineyards, located southeast of Charlottesville, Virginia, is a beautiful winery known for its sustainable practices. Established in 2000, the vineyard spans 32 acres of estate-grown grapes.
The tasting room, designed by Dave Matthews and William Johnson, offers a unique experience. Visitors can enjoy guided tours and tastings, with wines available by the flight, glass, or bottle.
Open Thursday through Monday, the tasting room requires reservations for indoor tastings. Outdoor spaces, however, are available on a first-come basis. Blenheim focuses on producing high-quality, 100% Virginia-grown wines.
For more information, visit Blenheim Vineyards.
10) Afton Mountain Vineyards
Afton Mountain Vineyards is one of Virginia’s first farm wineries, with vines dating back to the 1970s. Nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, this vineyard offers a scenic backdrop for wine enthusiasts.
They produce a variety of wines, including classic Bordeaux varietals like Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Their newer varietals, such as Malvasia Bianca and Tannat, add unique flavors to their collection.
Afton Mountain Vineyards is part of the Nelson 151 Trail. This trail is known for its picturesque route and numerous spots to sip and relax.
Visitors can expect a friendly atmosphere and enjoy tastings on the charming outdoor terrace. The vineyard prides itself on the motto, “Grapes don’t grow in ugly places,” highlighting the stunning landscape.
For more details, you can visit their official website. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just starting, Afton Mountain Vineyards offers a delightful experience in a breathtaking location.
Virginia’s Wine Regions
Virginia is home to diverse wine regions, each with unique characteristics. With 11 major regions and over 300 wineries, there’s a lot to explore.
Overview Of Major Wine Regions
Virginia boasts 11 major wine regions. The most prominent include Northern Virginia, Central Virginia, the Shenandoah Valley, and the Eastern Shore.
Northern Virginia is known for its historic charm and vineyards like Barboursville Vineyards.
Central Virginia is home to well-known wineries like Jefferson Vineyards. This region is noted for its versatile grape varieties and picturesque vineyards.
Shenandoah Valley offers unique wines like Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay. It benefits from higher elevations and cooler climates.
Eastern Shore stands out with its coastal influences. The climate helps produce distinctive wines that embody the region’s maritime character.
Unique Terroirs Of Virginia
Virginia’s terroirs contribute significantly to its wine diversity. The climate and soil variations across regions result in a range of flavors and wine styles.
In Northern Virginia, the soil types and moderate climate support robust red wines. Grape varieties like Cabernet Franc and Merlot thrive here.
Central Virginia features a mix of clay and loam soils. This area produces bright and balanced wines, often crafted from Viognier and Petit Verdot grapes.
The Shenandoah Valley benefits from limestone-rich soils. This, combined with its higher altitude, provides excellent conditions for growing Chardonnay and Riesling.
On the Eastern Shore, sandy soils and coastal breezes shape the terroir. The wines here often have a crisp, fresh taste, influenced by the nearby Chesapeake Bay.
Through these regions, Virginia offers a complex and delightful wine experience that showcases the variation in its terroirs.
History Of Winemaking In Virginia
Winemaking in Virginia has roots stretching back to the colonial period. It has seen significant growth and change, especially in modern times, with a revival of winemaking techniques and new vineyards emerging.
Colonial Beginnings
Winemaking in Virginia began with the early settlers. In 1619, the Virginia House of Burgesses passed a law requiring every male household to plant and cultivate grapevines. This was an early attempt to develop a wine industry resembling that of Europe.
Early efforts did not go as planned. European grapevines struggled to adapt to the New World’s climate and diseases. Nonetheless, Thomas Jefferson was an enthusiastic supporter of winemaking in Virginia. He made several attempts to grow French varietals at Monticello.
These beginnings laid the foundation for Virginia’s long-standing winemaking tradition.
Modern Revival
The modern revival of Virginia winemaking began in the 1970s. A small group of pioneers, determined to succeed where others had failed, adopted new techniques and grape varieties that thrived in Virginia’s climate.
This era saw the establishment of significant vineyards like the Monticello Wine Company, which played a pivotal role. By the 1990s, the number of winemakers had grown to 50, and now there are over 300 wineries.
Today, Virginia is renowned for its quality wines and innovative approaches to viticulture. The state’s wines earn respect from winemakers and sommeliers worldwide, reflecting its rich history and rebirth in the modern era.
