Guides to Virginia Wine

Explore the origins and history of Meritage wine, learn about its differences from Bordeaux, discover what red Meritage is made from, and find out the best U.S. regions and food pairings for enjoying this classic American blend.

Discover Central Virginia's Wine Region, the heart of Virginia's winemaking heritage and home to the historic Monticello AVA. Nestled around Charlottesville and extending through Albemarle, Nelson, Greene, and Orange counties, this region boasts award-winning wineries, stunning landscapes, and a rich history inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s vision. With a diverse range of varietals, including Viognier, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Chardonnay, Central Virginia has become a premier destination for wine enthusiasts. Must-visit wineries like King Family Vineyards, Barboursville Vineyards, and Veritas Vineyard & Winery offer exceptional tasting rooms, scenic views, and critically acclaimed wines. Explore the Monticello Wine Trail, indulge in farm-to-table dining, and experience immersive wine events that showcase the best of Virginia’s wine culture. Whether you're seeking a day trip or a weekend escape, Central Virginia promises an unforgettable journey through its vibrant wine country.

Celebrate Thanksgiving with perfectly paired Virginia wines! Discover expert tips on pairing soft Merlot with roasted turkey, zesty Albariño with creamy sides, and floral Viognier with spiced sweet potato casserole. Highlighting Barboursville, Horton, and Early Mountain Vineyards, this guide ensures every dish shines alongside Virginia’s top wines. Make your Thanksgiving unforgettable with local wine pairings that elevate your holiday feast.
 

Explore the world of Merlot, a beloved red wine celebrated for its smooth texture, rich fruit flavors, and versatile food pairings. Learn about its unique flavor profile, from plum to dark chocolate notes, and discover famous Merlot-producing regions like Bordeaux, Napa Valley, Central Virginia, and Washington State’s Columbia Valley. With recommendations on the best food pairings, this guide is perfect for wine lovers looking to deepen their appreciation of this classic grape.

Discover Virginia Cider Week, a November celebration of the state’s rich cider-making tradition. Enjoy cider tastings, orchard tours, pairing dinners, and workshops, highlighting the best of Virginia’s craft cider industry.

Explore the lasting effects of the film Sideways on the wine industry in this insightful article. Discover how the movie's infamous dismissal of Merlot reshaped consumer preferences and sparked a resurgence of quality-focused production, particularly in Virginia. From the dramatic sales shifts to the emergence of outstanding wineries, this piece delves into the evolution of Merlot and highlights the region's finest producers crafting exceptional wines. Join us on a journey through the cultural impact of Sideways and the resilience of Merlot.

The Monticello AVA in Virginia is loaded with great wineries. In fact, there are more than 33 on the Monticello Wine Trail alone. With so many wineries in Virginia, it's hard to know where to start when planning a day trip to Virginia wine country.  Use this guide to help you plan your next excursion. 

Discover what a wine vertical tasting is, what to expect at one, and how Virginia wineries like Barboursville and RdV Vineyards showcase the evolution of their wines across multiple vintages.

Explore the Northern Neck George Washington Birthplace AVA, a region steeped in American history and viticulture. Learn about its unique terroir, soil, climate, and discover five notable wineries. Plus, get the latest vintage reports.

Located in the heart of Virginia’s horse country, the Middleburg Virginia AVA is known for its scenic beauty and premium wines. The region’s rolling hills and well-drained soils are perfect for viticulture. Middleburg is particularly famous for its Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot

Discover the benefits of pasture-raised beef from Northern Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, highlighting Cottonwood Ranch and Big Whiskey Cattle. Learn how to pair local beef with the best red wines from Capstone Vineyards, Glen Manor Winery, and Linden Vineyards.

Explore the Shenandoah Valley AVA, its unique terroir, soil conditions, and weather. Discover five notable wineries and the last three years of vintage reports in this detailed guide.

Celebrate October Virginia Wine Month by exploring local wineries, enjoying harvest festivals, and supporting Virginia’s thriving wine industry. Discover the best events and activities in Virginia this October.

Discover the art of pairing wine and chocolate, a perfect indulgence for fall and Valentine’s Day. Explore tips for matching flavors and get inspired by DuCard Vineyards’ annual event featuring expert selections from Lindt Master Chocolatier Ann Czaja.

Discover the unique experience of a wine library tasting at Virginia wineries like Pearmund Cellars and Ducard Vineyards, where guests sample rare aged wines and explore the history and craftsmanship of winemaking.

Discover the charm of Virginia's apple wine and hard cider scene with visits to four renowned wineries and cideries. Learn about their unique offerings, stunning orchards, and the regions they call home.

Discover the art of pairing oysters with wine and explore the Urbana Oyster Festival in November. Learn about nearby wineries like Good Luck Cellars for a delightful culinary experience.

Discover the rich history of Capstone Vineyards in Linden, Virginia, and learn about its journey from a family-owned vineyard to its acquisition by winemaker Theo Smith and his partners. Explore how this thriving vineyard, nestled near the famous Linden Vineyards, continues to produce exceptional wines under new ownership while honoring its legacy of excellence.