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Virginia is for more than lovers - it's for wine, too! The emerging wine region now boasts over 300 wineries, producing more than two dozen varieties of vino. The scene offers up a balance of Old World European classics, as well as those who aren't afraid to test the waters with less common varieties.
With quality improving immensely over the last decade, demand has been surging among those in the know. Wine enthusiasts take note - here's the rundown on when to go and what to know for planning a wine-tasting trip to Northern Virginia.
What Wine Is Virginia Known For?
Eight viticultural areas span the state, so the climate and landscape vary significantly. As a result, the different growing regions specialize in particular types of wine. Overall, there tends to be a high level of moisture and humidity in Virginia, as well as some cold temperatures during the winter months. For this reason, grape varieties need to be hardy and able to endure some challenging conditions.
Chardonnay is the most planted grape state-wide, with red varieties of Merlot and Cabernet also topping the charts. Virginia even has its own native grape, the Norton grape, which dates all the way back to the early 1800s. Not only native to the state, but it also holds the title of America's oldest wine grape! It is a must-try when visiting the region, best paired with red meat or strong cheeses.
Northern Virginia Wine Trails
Over 100 of the state's wineries are located in the Northern Virginia region. With its proximity to Washington, DC, it is also easy to incorporate some city sights into the itinerary. The network of wineries and wine trails is extensive, but here are some of the biggest and most popular routes to check out.
Loudoun County: Wine Country Of The Nation's Capital
Featuring upwards of 50 wineries and located a stone's throw from Washington DC, Loudoun County offers the most bang for your buck in terms of quantity. The scenery is magnificent, and the quality is top-notch, too, perennially boasting gold-medal-winning wineries and vintages.
This region also serves up a diverse mix of winery experiences, with everything from grape stomping, vineyard yoga, concerts, vinotherapy spa treatments, and even a half-marathon. With farm-to-table dining, celebrity chefs, and a ton of boutique resorts and B&Bs, this is the perfect getaway for a romantic retreat or some self-indulgence with friends.
Fauquier County Wine Trail
Set against the backdrop of Virginia's horse country and the Blue Ridge Mountains, this collection of 23 wineries is nestled among rolling hills, stone wall fencing, and thoroughbred stables that give the feel of a storybook. Some of the oldest, most well-established wineries in not only Virginia but in the United States are found in Fauquier County. Many award-winning wines are produced in these wineries, especially Bordeaux-style reds.
Come for the wine; stay for the scenery. While enjoying the stunning vistas, a local foxhunt might even pass through the countryside with their hounds and horses in the fall or winter months.
Artisanal Wineries Of Rappahannock
Situated about an hour outside of Washington DC, the focus here is in small-batch, handcrafted wines produced by boutique, family-run wineries. The unique-yet-casual atmosphere offers a premium wine-tasting experience. Since there are only five wineries (see below), visitors can easily fit them all into a weekend trip (or even a day trip).
- Rappahannock Cellars
- Chester Gap Cellars
- Gadino Cellars
- Narmada Vineyards
- Sharp Rock Vineyards
Northern Virginia's Neighbor: Wines Of The Shenandoah Valley
Geographically in the north of the state, but slightly too west to fall under the true title of 'Northern Virginia', sits the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. A nature enthusiast's dream, the region offers not only excellent wine but a spectacular national park and other-worldly caverns that should be tacked onto the itinerary.
The area is home to dozens of rural wineries tucked between the Blue Ridge, Massanutten, and Allegheny Mountains. Thanks to its higher elevation, limestone soil, and less rainfall, growing conditions are some of the best in the state. The proof lies in its award-winning wines.
The Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail
Home to over 20 wineries, this is the oldest and largest wine region in Virginia. A quaint and unpretentious scene, most of these wineries and family-run. Visitors will feel the heart and soul that goes into each bottle, and the owners are often behind the tasting room bar or out chatting with patrons.
Shenandoah County Wine Trail
Eight award-winning vineyards sit along this wine trail, as well as two cideries and a distillery that a worth a visit. With many of the wineries situated quite literally over the river and through the woods, they offer a laid-back vibe, and four-legged friends are welcome.
When To Visit Virginia Wine Country And How To Get There
Hit the Northern Virginia wine trails in spring, summer, or fall. All three seasons are enjoyable for visiting the vineyards. The only time that isn't ideal is late winter (January - March), although patrons who live nearby can take advantage of an unseasonably warm day from time to time.
One of the best things about visiting Northern Virginia's wine country is the ease of access. Driving is a breeze, not to mention the beautiful views along the way. Situated just a hop, skip, and jump away from two major international airports (IAD and WAS) and about an hour from a third (BWI), direct flights are available from just about anywhere too. There are a multitude of concierge and tour services available, so it's easy to sip responsibly and let someone else do the driving!