WanderLove is about reconnecting with what you love. Experience scenic wineries, local distilleries, and all of the winding roads in between when you road trip the Shenandoah Spirits Trail through the northern Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.
As you travel through six counties, several cities, and countless towns, you’ll find some of the finest outdoor recreation and craft drinks Virginia has to offer. Running along the Interstate 81 corridor through the Shenandoah Valley, the spirits trail is a great way to take in the mountain views and charming downtowns with a drink in your hand.
Featuring 23 wineries and two distilleries, you’re sure to find a drink that satisfies your post-adventure cravings. Discover the best spots for wine and spirits in this guide to the Shenandoah Spirits Trail.
Brix & Columns Vineyard, Rockingham County
Get a Taste of the Valley
After a day exploring the rivers and mountains of Shenandoah National Park and George Washington National Forest, wind down with a drink from one of the wineries or distilleries on the trail.
Take in the stately Jeffersonian architecture, expansive fields, and breathtaking views at Brix & Columns Vineyard in Rockingham County. Pair a glass of the White Brix made from a blend of four white grapes with cheeses, meats, and seafood or try the McGahey Red Reserve, aged in French Oak barrels, with a hearty meal and decadent dessert. Bring the whole family, including your dog, to enjoy a day on the lawn. Pick up a bottle to take home when you stop by or order a few online.
Enjoy a glass of wine on the deck or by the fireplace at Wisteria Farm and Vineyard, a cozy winery in Page County. Taste Buzzard’s Roost, a blend of all the winery’s reds, or Sweet Daisy, of which a portion of the price is donated to the local SPCA. If you are uncomfortable staying on site to enjoy a glass of wine, place an order for curbside pickup or get a bottle delivered directly to your door. Just down the road, River Hill Distillery offers a fine selection of whiskeys and country wines made from the farm or local sources.
For spectacular views of the Great North Mountains, sit out on the wine-tasting deck at Wolf Gap Vineyard and Winery with a drink in your hand. From their popular blueberry wine to the classic Virginia Viognier, you can try them all at this picturesque spot in Shenandoah County. Nearby, Filibuster Bourbon proudly crafts small batches of bourbon through sustainable practices. Make a reservation at the tasting room for a taste tour of the spirits or order online.
River Hill Distillery, photo by Liz Lewis
Located in the Bear’s Den Historic District of Clarke County, Twin Oaks Tavern Winery occupies a rustic stone house on a hillside. No matter the season, you can find a spot to relax and sample the winery’s offerings. Cool off with a spice wine chiller or light white in the summer and warm up in the winter with a mulled wine or hearty red. Become a wine club member for discounts, private tours and tastings, and monthly wine purchases.
Twin Oaks Tavern Winery Sunset, photo by Felicia Hart
Briedé Family Vineyards is a boutique winery in Winchester focused on Virginia wines, sparkling wines, and champagnes. Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grounds while you savor the aromatic flavors. If you like what you taste, sign up for the wine club for two bottles a quarter and discounts on wine and events.
With all of these stops and more, you’ll want to keep coming back year after year to try each of the wineries and distilleries in the northern Shenandoah Valley. Experience WanderLove for yourself when you visit the Shenandoah Spirits Trail.
Note: Please check local guidelines and regulations before making plans to travel. Remember to practice social distancing guidelines, wear a mask, and respect others’ health when traveling through Virginia.
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