Best Wineries for Wine Tasting in Northern Virginia

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Show of hands — who knew there was an impressive, well-established wine region in Northern Virginia? It might be lesser known than other popular wine regions, but that doesn’t take away from its rightful place in the wine world.

Wine tasting in Northern Virginia is a fun activity that will introduce you to the vineyards and wines of the region, all amongst the most beautiful rolling hills and countryside imaginable.

Northern Virginia Wine Region
Northern Virginia Wine Region

The Northern Virginia wine region is made up of the Middleburg AVA, located 50 miles west of Washington D.C. It covers around 190 square miles containing 229 acres of commercial vineyards, 24 Virginia wineries, and 8 vineyards. Some of the top grape varietals grown here are Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chambourcin, Traminette, and Zinfandel.

Our Discover Wine series focuses on regions of the world that you can visit for wine tasting.

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How to Get To Northern Virginia Wineries

Starting just 40 minutes outside of Washington D.C., the Northern Virginia wine region is spread throughout a number of different cities. The region is frequently visited by city dwellers on day trips. If you fly in, Dulles International Airport is the closest airport — only a 20-minute drive away.

Since the wineries are so spread out, it’s best to create a game plan before heading out to wineries. Virginiawine.org has a comprehensive list of Northern Virginia wine trails that offer suggested wineries to visit in each area. It could take you a couple of dozen trips to this area to get around to all the great wineries.

You’ll notice at the tasting rooms that there are no shortage of groups in limos. While it might seem cliche, if you have a larger group, it’s a good way to get around as long as you’re not one of those groups. There can be quite a bit of driving between each winery.

Where to Go Wine Tasting

Sunset Hills Winery
Sunset Hills Winery

As previously mentioned, the dozens of wineries in the Northern Virginia wine region are spread throughout a large area and cannot possibly be explored in one day.

Some of our favorites are:

Could you hit up all five of these in one day? No, although Breaux, Sunset Hills, and Tarara are doable in one day. The good news is that there are dozens of really great wineries in the area – many that have beautiful views and grounds, if not amazing wine — so you can’t really go wrong. Just pick a handful of wineries from the route maps on Virginiawine.org and set out to explore.

Wine Tours in Northern Virginia

There are lots of vineyard tours available from various tour providers in Northern VA. There are also wineries that will provide tours are a great way to deepen your understanding of the winemaking process and learn about the unique characteristics of Virginia wine.

Before embarking on your wine trip, it’s advisable to check with both the wineries and tour providers for the latest information, tour availability, and any special events or offerings.

Where to Stay in Northern VA

Red Fox Inn in Middleburg, VA
Red Fox Inn in Middleburg, VA (CC Photo by Ron Cogswell)

The three most central cities in which to stay are Middleburg, Leesburg and Purcellville, and there are some great affordable luxury accommodations in these cities.

Three recommended choices:

  • Landsdown Resort & Spa – Leesburg, VA. Great location near shopping and restaurants. Read reviews on Trip Advisor or book on Expedia.
  • Red Fox Inn & Tavern – Middleburg, VA. Has a Virginia countryside feel to it. | Read reviews on Trip Advisor or book directly with Red Fox.
  • Homewood Suites by Hilton – Leesburg, VA. Budget-conscious choice with a great location and comfortable rooms. | Read reviews on Trip Advisor or book on Expedia.

Where to Eat

Not many of the wineries in Northern Virginia offer food, but a good number of them provide picnic space and excellent views, so be sure to pack a picnic for lunch. Wegmans grocery or the Leesburg Saturday Farmers Market should help you fill the basket with fine foods.

After a long day of wine tasting (and the requisite follow-up nap), you’ll be ready for a plate of simple, seasonal food and perhaps taste another glass or two of local wine from The Wine Kitchen in Leesburg. For a more elegant dinner, try Patowmack Farm or Goodstone Restaurant. And for a less formal affair, hit up Red Fox Tavern for a casual menu and local beer.

Is Virginia Wine Country Worth Visiting?

Virginia Wine Country is worth checking out! It is a welcoming destination with excellent wine, beautiful vineyards, stunning views, historical richness, and a laid-back vibe—making it a must-visit for anyone looking for a delightful escape. The charming small towns surrounding the wineries in offer a perfect blend of boutique shopping and local charm.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, there’s more to explore. Hiking and biking trails allow you to soak in the natural beauty of the region. And if you’re based in Washington, D.C., Virginia Wine Country is just a short drive away, offering a convenient and enjoyable break from the city buzz.

Frequently Asked Questions on Northern Virginia Wineries & Virginia Wine

What grape varieties are commonly grown in Virginia vineyards?

Northern Virginia is known for growing a variety of grapes, including Viognier, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Chardonnay, and Merlot. Viognier, in particular, has gained recognition as the state’s signature white grape for wine.

Are there transportation options for wine tours in Northern Virginia?

Yes, there are various transportation options, including guided wine tours, limousine services, and shuttle services. Some wineries may also be part of organized wine trails, making it convenient for visitors to explore Virginia’s multiple establishments.

Are there any famous wine trails in Northern Virginia?

Yes, Northern Virginia has several wine trails, such as the Fauquier County Wine Trail and the Loudoun Wine Trail. These trails offer a curated experience, guiding visitors through some of the region’s top wineries. Check with local tourism boards or winery associations for the latest trail information.

Conclusion

Do you have a favorite Northern Virginia winery you’d like to share with us? Put your recommendations in the comments field so we can all find new and exciting wineries in the Northern Virginia wine region.

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Best Wineries for Wine Tasting in Northern Virginia

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