In 1774, founding father Thomas Jefferson began an ambitious endeavor to grow Sangiovese grapes on his home plantation of Monticello in Virginia. Aided by friend and Italian vintner Fillipo Mazzei, Jefferson dreamt of bringing viticulture to his home state. Over two centuries later, modern-day wineries have succeeded in establishing Charlottesville, Virginia as a prominent wine region of the United States. With over 150 vineyards, Virginia is the state for lovers… and wine lovers.
Where is Virginia’s Wine Country
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville is often designated as a great place to live. The city’s pedestrian downtown, proximity to nature, and metropolitan amenities offer an ideal location for visiting surrounding vineyards. During the day, explore wineries. At sunset, stroll the streets for a cozy dinner. As night draws on, navigate the nightlife scene at one of many bars and lounges.
Visiting Noteworthy Virginia Wineries
Jefferson Vineyard
- Adjacent to Monticello Plantation, Jefferson Vineyard includes the original twenty acres from Thomas Jefferson’s 1774 vineyard. Since 1981, winemakers have produced Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Viognier. With favorable vintage conditions, Jefferson Vineyard produces up to 8000 cases annually, using only Virginian grapes grown on-plantation or acquired from within the commonwealth. In fall, they celebrate the season with the Harvest Festival in the Barrel Rooms.
Blenheim Vineyards
- Since 1999, the Matthews family has operated Blenheim Vineyards, the area’s oldest vineyard, located twenty minutes from Charlottesville. A lush property faces southward into Carter’s Mountain with architecture dating back to the 1800s including a beautiful Gothic Revival-style cottage. Grape growers organize the estate into two vineyard sites, producing Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. After tasting their wines, explore the original outbuildings including the schoolhouse, chapel, smokehouse, and library.
King Family Vineyard
- Spanning three generations, the King Family Vineyard is nestled in rolling green landscapes perfect for weddings and picnics. Using 100% estate grown fruit, the family produces excellent Voignier, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Meritage. Sample their selection of wines and cheeses for a great afternoon snack on the covered veranda or brick patio. In the North Gallery, the King family displays works from local artists. In the Carriage House, a high ceiling and stone fireplace welcome visitors and help make any event whimsical.
Veritas Vineyard and Winery
- Derived from the Latin phrase “In Vino Veritas” or “In Wine is Truth”, Veritas Vineyard and Winery takes pride in its meticulous care of the estate grapes. Operating since 2002, the Hodson family of winemakers believes in classic old-style principles of viticulture and produce fine Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot against the backdrop of the serene Blue Ridge Mountains. While tasting their wines, sit on the sun deck or great lawn that overlook the mountain peaks.
For longer stays in Virginia’s wine country, consider:
- Visiting the historical residence of Thomas Jefferson at Monticello
- Exploring the famous rotunda at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the University of Virginia at Charlottesville
- People-watching and snacking along the Downtown Pedestrian Mall
For further information on the Wine Countries of America, read:
- Beyond Napa and Sonoma: Wine Regions of California
- Traveling the Texas Wine Trail
- Touring the Long Island Wineries
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