Cradled between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, the Shenandoah Valley Wine Region is Virginia’s oldest and largest AVA, stretching nearly 200 miles from the West Virginia line toward Roanoke. Here, elevations, cool nights, and a protective rain shadow create a uniquely dry, sunny growing season that sets the Valley apart from many of Virginia’s other wine regions. Vineyards enjoy rocky, limestone-rich soils that help craft wines with vibrant acidity, structure, and a distinct sense of place.
This natural advantage has made Shenandoah Valley a rising star for varieties like Cabernet Franc, Riesling, Chardonnay, Petit Verdot, and Pinot Noir. Winemakers lean into the region’s cooler climate to produce expressive reds with lift and freshness, as well as fragrant whites that balance ripe fruit with mineral-driven finesse. From crisp sparkling wines to bold Bordeaux-style blends, the diversity in the glass mirrors the landscape’s dramatic views.
Visitors will find wineries scattered along quiet back roads and tucked into rolling hillsides, often with panoramic vistas of vineyards framed by mountain ridges. Whether you’re road-tripping I-81, hiking Shenandoah National Park, or exploring nearby small towns, the Shenandoah Valley Wine Region invites you to slow down, sip thoughtfully, and discover one of Virginia’s most distinctive wine destinations.