4 of the Best Wineries In Central Virginia For Food

Notable Chefs make staying for dinner a 'must' in Virginia Wine Country.

If you’re a fan of wine and life on the East Coast, you’ve most likely visited a few wineries in Central Virginia. But many of the wineries in the region are not only amazing places to enjoy a glass of your favorite red or white vino but to stay for a while and enjoy a good meal. In fact, some of the wineries are known for having the best food in the area, with notable chefs and delicious meal choices that pair amazingly with their specific wines. If you’re looking for an outstanding restaurant to enjoy a good meal at, here are a few Central Virginia wineries to check out for their wine and food:

Barboursville Vineyards

1755 Winery Rd, Barboursville, VA 22923  

The Palladio Restaurant at Bar Barboursville Vineyards perfectly blends Virginian resources with Northern Italian cuisine and complements each dish with their specific vintage. Their four-course menu offers intriguingly delicious choices for every stage and the wine pairings only bring out the flavor of each dish tenfold. The restaurant is elegant enough for fancy celebrations yet cozy enough for a quick bite to eat while touring wine country. View more info on Barboursville Vineyards

Early Mountain

6109 Wolftown-Hood Road, Madison, VA 22727

With the elegant wines that they consider both exceptional and accessible, Early Mountain Winery has several medals for their wines from the prestigious Virginia Governor’s Cup Wine Competition, so you know their selections are some of the best in the region. But their tasting room is what really delights guests, with high-end dining and lounging, in addition to samples from their own vineyards, as well as flights curated from some of the best vineyards throughout Virginia wine country. Chef Ryan Collins is all about locally sourced, seasonal menus that complement the winery’s notable wines. Although the menu isn’t too complex, it still offers tasteful meals that’ll satisfy your taste buds as you soak in the flavors of their wines. View more info on Early Mountain Vineyards

Trump Winery

3550 Blenheim Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22902

Trump Winery was voted as one of the best wine travel destinations in the world thanks to its stunning views and flavorful wines. Their vast selection of award-winning wines pair nicely with their seasonal cuisine that includes savory artisan bread and cheese plates, as well as indulgent sandwiches that pair quite nicely with their wines. View more on Trump Winery                                                                   

Upper Shirley

600 Shirley Plantation Rd, Charles City, VA 23030

Headed by Chef Carlisle Bannister, the dining experience at Upper Shirley Vineyards is described as many as extraordinary and superb. With amazing views of the James River, the locally sourced menu is an exceptional example of fine dining at its best. Patrons can nibble on snacks like local cheese and charcuterie or enjoy a full meal like their oyster stew and shrimp with Anson Mill grits.  View more info on Uppershirley Vineyards