Virginia Wine Trails Overview
Virginia is home to over 200 wineries and various scenic wine trails. The significance of wine in Virginia’s tourism and economy has led to the designation of October as Virginia Wine Month. These wine trails, which wind through historical towns and near popular attractions, provide an enjoyable way to explore the region while discovering its rich viticultural heritage. Many wineries offer year-round visiting hours and host special seasonal events.
Bedford Wine Trail
Located in Bedford County, this wine trail showcases the scenic beauty of the central Blue Ridge Mountain region. At the heart of the Bedford Wine Trail, you will find the historic Centertown Bedford, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This town is notable for the highest per capita D-Day losses in the U.S., and visitors can explore Bedford’s National D-Day Memorial, which honors the bravery of the Normandy Allied Forces. Other attractions in the vicinity include the Booker T. Washington National Monument, Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, and Virginia’s Explore Park.
The Blue Ridge WineWay
Featuring more than ten renowned wineries, the Blue Ridge WineWay traverses Virginia’s picturesque horse country near Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visitors can enjoy unique tasting rooms while experiencing breathtaking views, charming accommodations, and delightful dining options. This scenic route is conveniently located just an hour from Washington, D.C. For a luxurious experience, consider staying at the acclaimed Inn at Little Washington.
The Botetourt Wine Trail
This trail features three family-owned wineries that specialize in quality wines crafted using old-world techniques. Located in one of Virginia’s oldest and most scenic counties, visitors can enjoy wine tastings and special events throughout the year. Nearby attractions include the National D-Day Memorial, Natural Bridge, and several Civil War sites.
Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail
Winding through the picturesque Chesapeake Bay region, this trail explores nine charming wineries, each offering unique settings with inviting courtyards and beautiful vineyard views. The area is abundant with history and scenic waterways, including the Rappahannock River and the Potomac River. While in the region, don’t miss the charming Colonial Beach, the birthplace of George Washington.
Fauquier County Wine Trail
Established in 2007, the Fauquier County Wine Trail encompasses over 15 wineries, with more openings expected in the future. This trail showcases the beautiful landscapes of the Blue Ridge foothills, characterized by rolling hills, horse farms, and picturesque vineyards. Visitors are just a 45-minute drive from Washington, D.C.
The General’s Wine and History Trail
Near Washington, D.C., this unique trail blends Civil War history with Virginia’s winemaking heritage, featuring ten wineries alongside notable historic sites.
The Heart of Virginia Wine Trail
Set in the rolling hills of central Virginia, this wine trail is easily accessible from Charlottesville, Richmond, and Fredericksburg. It features a selection of award-winning boutique wineries. Visitors can create personalized itineraries that include winery visits as well as attractions like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and Kings Dominion amusement park.
Loudoun Wine Country
Known as the heart of Virginia’s hunt country, Loudoun County is rapidly gaining recognition for its wineries and is now Virginia’s second-largest region for wine grape acreage. Over 20 distinctive wineries offer a variety of experiences, from man-made caves to restored barns. The historic towns of Leesburg and Middleburg are also worth exploring.
The Monticello Wine Trail
At the center of the Monticello Wine Trail lies Charlottesville, dubbed The Wine Capital of Virginia. This area boasts 21 farm wineries across five groupings, making it a popular destination for wine enthusiasts attracted to the blend of history and scenic beauty.
The Shenandoah Valley Wine Country Trail
Just an hour from Washington, D.C., this trail allows visitors to explore Virginia’s scenic mountains, historic sites, and natural wonders along with its wineries. Popular attractions include Luray Caverns and Historic Staunton’s Blackfriars Playhouse.
The SoVA Wine Trail
The SoVA Wine Trail features ten small boutique farm wineries located in Southern Virginia, offering a taste of local culture along with opportunities for farm tours and visits to charming small towns.
