Virginia
Central Region
Central Virginia offers visitors many wineries to visit. Wine enthusiasts will discover small boutique wineries and larger state of the art wineries. Both types of wineries offer a delightful ambiance for visitors. The climate has more than 200 days of growing season. With 52 wineries, the Central Virginia can provide a great place to visit repeatedly. The majority of wineries in Central Virginia are near Monticello, a few are farther east towards Richmond and others are south of Lynchburg.
AVAs
The Monticello AVA is home to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello estate. It is at Monticello that Jefferson spent years attempting to grow vinifera grapes.
Grape Varietals
Red Grape varieties include Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chambourcin, Malbec, Merlot, Norton, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Tannat, Touriga Nacional and Zinfandel.
White Grape varieties to be found in Central Virginia include Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, Petit Manseng Riesling, Rkatsiteli, Sauvignon Blanc Seyval Blanc, Traminette, Vidal Blanc, Viognier, Orange Muscat, and Muscat of Alexandria.
Wine Trails
The Central Virginia area includes Bedford County Wine Trail, Heart of Virginia Wine Trail and the Monticello Wine Trail. Bedford County Wine Trail includes five wineries. The wine trail offers a variety of red, white and fruit wines. The scenic views in the area are outstanding and a photographer’s delight. The trail is located about two hours from Greensboro, NC, three hours from Richmond and four hours from parts of the metropolitan Washington, D.C. area. The Heart of Virginia Wine Trail has four participating wineries. This wine trail offers several events each year. The Monticello Wine Trail claiming to be the “Birthplace of American Wine” represents more than twenty wineries. This wine trail offers the opportunity for visitors to combine wineries and American history journeys. Wine enthusiasts and history buffs will enjoy planning return visits to the Monticello area.
Visit these Virginia wineries and wine tour groups that partner with Wine Trail Traveler.
 |
 |
 |
 |
