Early Mountain
Linden
Glen Manor

They’ll all stack up well against wine from more prestigious regions. Some wine snobs claim to not like it but it’s because they don’t like the Virginia part.

Others to look at with nice wine:
Crimson Lane
Capstone
Rappahannock

Plus a few further south that some people have already mentioned:
Walsh
Barboursville
Pippin Hill

A lot of people tend to prefer Virginia white wine, but many of the above spots have good red too. And Rappahannock has a good sparkling program.

Virginia red wine is closer to old world than California, so comparing it to California is pointless.

If the only red you like is when you’re getting smacked in the face, then stick with Napa.

The problem with Virginia wine is that it’s expensive. But that’s the cost of making a high quality product in small amounts and with challenging weather (some years).

Disregard any opinion that excludes Virginia wine out of hand. They’re either inexperienced, have an ax to grind, or think that making such sweeping statements makes them appear refined and picky. It’s a chore to listen to these people.

Anonymous wrote:I'm sorry but I would look at going to Italy a 50th birthday if Napa is off the table. Or even France. No true Oenophile will enjoy wine tasting in Virginia *giggle*

I've been to Napa and... meh? The smaller wineries are better but it's crowded and overpriced on the whole.

I know someone who is a pretty high level sommelier and he always says that the best wine is the one you like to drink. His job is to find new things individuals would like, not push the same wines on everyone.

Early Mountain and Barboursville.

Anonymous wrote:I would agree that none of the wines are going to be "good." You are mostly going out to enjoy the scenery and people watch. VA wines will never hold a candle to CA wines.

You must be from CA?

Anonymous wrote:Just had to cancel long-planned Napa trip for DH's 50th birthday. Beyond bummed. Trying to make it up to him with a local trip to a great VA winery but know little about them. Would love recommendations. TIA.

If you decide to go to MD, try SugarLoaf Vineyard on Comus Road in Dickerson MD
smvwinery DOT com

Anonymous wrote:I'm sorry but I would look at going to Italy a 50th birthday if Napa is off the table. Or even France. No true Oenophile will enjoy wine tasting in Virginia *giggle*

Wine snobs…so tiring.

Anonymous wrote:I'm sorry but I would look at going to Italy a 50th birthday if Napa is off the table. Or even France. No true Oenophile will enjoy wine tasting in Virginia *giggle*

RDV for sure. (I think they’re a bit overpriced but very good). It’s also a stunning place and you won’t get a party atmosphere of bachelorettes and 25th birthdays there unlike other VA wineries.

We recently visited the Star in the Valley winery which is just off of 81 west of Fort Royal. A lovely little property with amazing views. I especially enjoyed the Field Star White, and my H liked the Cabernet Franc. They don't offer food, but you are welcome to bring your own snacks or meals.

https://www.starinthevalley.com/

Another place I remember is Revalation which is a bit west of Culpeper. We went in the Fall a few years ago and they had a bunch of outdoor seating...the trees in color were amazing. The wine was nice, tastings served in these tiny glasses which were so cute. Again, not much food but you're welcome to bring your own. Most seating is outside which is lovely when the weather is good.

https://revalationvineyards.com/

Earlier this summer, we were in Charlottesville and visited Carter's Mountain Orchards. Amazing views and really good ciders (which is what my H prefers). The cider donuts were awesome too. It's right by Monticello.

https://chilesfamilyorchards.com/carter-mountain-orchard/

I'm sorry but I would look at going to Italy a 50th birthday if Napa is off the table. Or even France. No true Oenophile will enjoy wine tasting in Virginia *giggle*