Virginia Wine Market - Wine and Weekends

Wine and Weekends

Guide to Wine Tasting on the Nelson 151 Trail

Explore Wineries Southwest of Charlottesville, Virginia

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There is a popular stretch of road stretching southwest from Charlottesville Virginia called "Nelson 151", which is the home to tons of wineries, breweries/cideries, and even a distillery. A few of the wineries along this road lean towards the sweeter side; however, the wineries that I am featuring in this article are far from that and have something that everyone will love! For reference, I am strategically listing these wineries from most northern to most southern. If you are traveling from the south, you may want to reverse the order! All of these wineries are located on the north end of the Nelson 151 corridor.

Katie Church

Guest Contributor

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Katie Church is a travel expert and wine lover located in southern Virginia. She is the owner-operator of WineandWeekends.com, a Travel and Lifestyle blog. Katie showcases everything from local wine itineraries to worldwide travel reviews. Her mission statement is: "Inspiring others to live out their dreams...Even if only for the weekend!" For a more personal look into Katie's adventures, follow her on Instagram: @Katie.wineandweekends.

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Magnolia Vineyards

Magnificent Bordeaux style wines from the Rappahanock region of Virginia.

2016 Magnolia Vineyards Vidal Blanc

Estate Grown

Apricot and pear on the nose, white currant on the mid-palate and a crisp, clean finish. 90% Vidal Blanc blended with 10% Traminette.

2017 Magnolia Vineyards Black Walnut White

Light and Fresh

Our latest Black Walnut White blend shows a bit of floral and citrus on the nose, like an orange blossom. A creamsicle forward palate gives way to a dry finish with hints of grapefruit, tangerine and pineapple. 55% Vidal Blanc, 45% Traminette.

2017 Magnolia Vineyards Hawkins Run Red

Red Blend

This signature Bordeaux style blend has a bright, “fun” and fruity nose, with lots of black cherry. The forward palate is fruity with a bit of leather, giving way to vanilla and a light smokiness on the finish. 33% Merlot, 33% Cabernet Franc, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Petit Verdot.

2017 Magnolia Vineyards Petit Verdot

A hearty red wine

This 100% Petit Verdot varietal is a beautiful, smooth and delicious wine. It has a crisp bright nose, a forward palate of cranberry and stone fruit with hints of coffee, and a long leathery finish. Pairs well with hearty dishes.

2017 Magnolia Vineyards Viognier

Our latest Viognier has star fruit and lemon on the nose, a sweet forward palate, a mineral mid-palate and a lingering bright citrus finish. 90% Viognier, 10% Traminette.