One of the best parts about the rural Virginian countryside is the abundance of wineries. But what are the best wineries in Virginia? In some places, it seems like there's a fantastic vineyard every two miles. With over 250 different wineries to choose from, the state has a lot of great places to go wine tasting. Here's a list of the top 15 best Virginia wineries, in no particular order:
1) Willowcraft Farm
Located in Leesburg, Willowcroft Farm is a winery to remember. The vineyard features a spectacular view of Loudoun Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains, and you can bring your own snacks to enjoy with their wine in picnic areas outside. Both Willowcroft's Chardonnay and Rosé wines are award-winning, and a definite must-try, and make it one of the best wineries in Virginia.
2) Linden Vineyards
Surrounded by the lush Blue Ridge Mountains, the aptly-named Linden Vineyards serves wines made from the grapes of three different vineyards in Linden, Virginia. Because they grow grapes in multiple places and different kinds of soil, they have a variety of great wines to taste. Their best are the white wines, so sample the Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc for a light and refreshing experience.
3) Bluemont Vineyard
Bluemont Vineyard takes wine tasting to new heights. At 951 feet above sea level, the vineyard offers a beautiful panoramic view of Loudoun County. It's a steep walk to the tasting room, but the workout is worth it. Not only is the wine delicious, but the vineyard also has great selection of farm fresh and gourmet snacks to enjoy. Try the cider donuts, which are amazing and pair well with any wine.
4) Three Fox Vineyards
Delaplane's Three Fox Vineyards features Italian wines in a picturesque countryside location. The winery was named when the now-owners were scouting locations, and they saw three foxes on one of the vineyard's hills. This love of animals extends to the winery's pet policy, which welcomes all furry friends. Bring your dog along; they're sure to love the treats the winery has for pets just as much as you love the wine.
5) Stone Tower Winery
Just south of Leesburg, Stone Tower Winery has several tasting rooms to enjoy all of their delicious wines. The Tower View Tasting Room offers a bird's-eye view of the surrounding landscape, and the Harvest Barn Tasting Rooms are pet-friendly. Enjoy a picnic here as you sip their scrumptious wines, or try some of their yummy snacks.
6) 868 Estate Vineyards
868 Estate Vineyards in Purcellville aims to offer the "perfect combination of old-world traditions and leading-edge technology." And wow, do they succeed. Enjoy live music every Saturday night, or try some great food at their on-site Grandale Restaurant. Whatever you're looking for at a winery, 868 Estate has it. Make sure to try their award-winning Cabernet Franc.
7) Rappahannock Cellars
The owners of Rappahannock Cellars come from California, and they brought their unique experience on the West Cost to Huntly, Virginia. The winery has a wonderfully decorated tasting room, and their wines are reminiscent of ones found in the California hills. For a truly excellent wine, try their Meritage.
8) The Winery at Bull Run
The Winery at Bull Run in Centreville is built adjacent to the Manassas National Battlefield Park, giving this winery a historical feel. The Winery boasts a small Civil War-era museum in addition to their historically reconstructed buildings. The Winery's best wines are named after the owners' two daughters, Delaney and Lilly, and are a delightful treat for a warm summer day.
9) Zephaniah Farm Vineyard
Part of a working farm, Zephaniah Farm Vineyard in Leesburg has gorgeous views of the surrounding farmland. The winery has been owned by the Hatch family for three generations, and their experience shows in the quality of the wine and beauty of the vineyard. Try their Rosé or Three Captains Red for an excellent taste of what Virginia grapes can offer.
10) North Gate Vineyard
Purcellville's North Gate Vineyard advertises that "a great glass of wine starts here," and they're not wrong. North Gate offers some of the best tastings in Virginia due to their meticulous winemaking philosophy and process. You can also get paired chocolates with your wine tasting, as well as many other morsels like crackers, cheese, and dips to compliment your wine.
11) Muse Vineyards
Inspired by wineries in France and Italy, Muse Vineyards in Woodstock offers a great lookout onto the Shenandoah Valley, making it one of the best wineries in Virginia. Muse grows over fifteen varieties of grapes, so their wines are as varied as they are delicious. A wine tasting here is sure to please your palate.
12) Barrel Oak Winery
Recognized in 2012 as the "Most Family Friendly Winery in Virginia" by Wine Enthusiast Magazine, Barrel Oak Winery brings a positive atmosphere to Delaplane. Their pet and kid friendly venue offers something for everyone, though 21+ adults will particularly enjoy their red wines.
13) Bluestone Vineyard
Bridgewater's Bluestone Vineyard sits in the center of Shenandoah Valley. Built over the remains of a 19th-century barn, Bluestone has an elegant, historical feel that will make you feel at home in no time. Their wines are sold locally throughout the Shenandoah Valley, which is a testament to their quality. Stop by Bluestone for great wine in a beautiful location.
14) Early Mountain Vineyards
If tasting wine gives you the munchies, you'll love Early Mountain Vineyards in Madison. They serve seasonal food from local farmers, offering fresh and delicious pairings for their wine. Their tasting room is elegant and full of light, and they have an adorable cottage for private events. Thinking about having your wedding at a vineyard? Early Mountain is the perfect place.
15) Keswick Vineyards
Charlottesville's Keswick Vineyards combines the historical with the modern, serving great wines on an estate that was at its prime during the Civil War. They have an outside bar, often play live music, and are even pet-friendly! Their white wine won "Best White Wine in America" at the Atlanta International Wine Summit, so make sure you try a glass during your next visit.
This is just a short list of the best wineries in Virginia. Virginia wine country has a lot of amazing wineries, so if you get through all 15 of these vineyards and you still want more, make sure to check out any one of the over 250 that the state has to offer. These ones around Charlottesville are a great place to start.
Excited to go wine tasting, but know nothing about wine? This introduction to wine will help you master the art of drinking wine, while this guide to attending a wine-tasting will make visiting Virginia's wineries a breeze.