Guides to Virginia Wine

Early spring in Virginia vineyards is a season of preparation. Learn how growers repair trellises, nurture soils, and anticipate budbreak as vines awaken for a new growing year.

Summer in Virginia vineyards brings canopy management, disease prevention, and veraison. Discover how viticulturists tame vigorous vines in the heat and humidity to shape the future vintage.

 Explore spring in Virginia vineyards as grapevines awaken from dormancy. Learn about budbreak, pruning, frost protection, and how viticulturists prepare the vines for a new vintage.

Winter in Virginia vineyards brings dormancy and pruning, while wineries hum with fermentations and barrel aging. Learn how growers and winemakers prepare for the next vintage.

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 what happens in Virginia vineyards after harvest, from soil care and cover crops to vine recovery and preparation for dormancy. Learn how vintners set the stage for the next growing season.

Harvest season in Virginia vineyards is a race against time, balancing ripeness, weather, and labor to bring in grapes at peak quality. Discover how vintners navigate the most critical season of the year.

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.

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. 

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 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 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.

Valerie Hill Vineyard & Winery stands as a testament to Virginia's rich history and vibrant wine culture, offering visitors an experience that is as educational as it is enjoyable. From the carefully tended vineyards to the historic manor house, every aspect of the winery reflects a commitment to quality, tradition, and hospitality

Wine country in Virginia is dotted with cute and cozy tasting rooms that ooze comfort and warmth on cold winter days. Get out of your cramped house or apartment and relax by the fireplace in one of these super cozy tasting rooms.

Greetings fellow wine and dog lovers! My co-founder, Jeremy and I recently took a road trip to Charlottesville, VA with our dachshunds Bentley and Greta. Naturally, we used Corkhounds.com  to discover some dog-friendly wineries in the area. We normally base our choices on dog-friendliness, proximity to other wineries, and Google ratings, all of which our site pulls together.