With over 280 wineries and more than 400 years of history, Virginia’s wine product is as vast as its roots are deep – cultivated by centuries of hardworking grape-growers, winemakers, connoisseurs, and entrepreneurs bound by a love of wine and a fierce determination to achieve the vinicultural dreams of their forefathers.
Intertwined throughout the setbacks and triumphs of the Commonwealth’s wine narrative, you’ll discover a story of perseverance, a spirit of innovation, and an unrivaled passion that has ultimately elevated Virginia wine to national and international acclaim.
Today, from the Appalachian Mountains to the coastal plains, the Commonwealth is decorated by more than 3,800 acres of sweeping vineyard views. The best way to experience Virginia wine for yourself is to pick a wine trail and get started on an epic wine getaway. We’ve included information below about different wine trails throughout the state of Virginia.
—WINE TRAILS—
Follow in the footsteps of those who made history while creating wine in Virginia. Find our Wine & History itinerary, a perfect pairing for any Virginia vacation.
Monticello Wine Trail
Located near the Charlottesville area, this wine trail includes thirty vineyards and wineries all inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s vision of grape growing and winemaking. Stop by Monticello for a tour of Thomas Jefferson’s home then taste wine at Jefferson Vineyards for a historic wine experience.
Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail
About an hour’s drive west of Washington DC lies the Shenandoah Valley with more than 20 wineries to explore along the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Plan a hike along one of the many trails found in the Shenandoah Valley then find a winery to relax post-hike.
Colonial Wine Trail
From Richmond to Williamsburg, the newly expanded trail included 5 wineries in the heart of colonial America. Don’t miss a tour at Shirley Plantation next to Upper Shirley Vineyards and an overnight stay at Wedmore Place, located at The Williamsburg Winery.
Loudoun: DC’s Wine Country
Located just outside of Washington DC, this trail consists of 40 wineries and tasting rooms grouped into six different clusters sprinkled throughout the countryside. Continue you adventure at one of Loudoun’s nine destination restaurants including organic farm-to-table dining at The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm while overlooking the Potomac River.
Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail
10 premiere wineries located in the Chesapeake Bay wine region. This region is filled with local seafood options, including the Virginia oyster. Visit the Dog and Oyster vineyard then head over to Merroir, a local restaurant with fresh seafood and oysters.
Every vine, every grape, and every glass has a story. So let’s open a bottle and raise a toast to Virginia: the birthplace of American wine and the quintessential destination for all modern-day wine lovers.
What about Fauquier?
There are so many great wine trails in Virginia. I love to explore them all.