Whether you live in the DC area or are planning to visit the region during your next vacation, there are plenty of fabulous Northern Virginia wineries that are well worth checking out. Are you a fan of refreshing whites? Bold reds? Sweet dessert wines? There’s something for everyone at each of these seven Northern Virginia wineries, all located about an hour outside the city.
1 Fabbioli Cellars
Known for its award-winning wines and sustainable practices, Fabbioli Cellars in Leesburg is by far one of the best Northern Virginia wineries to visit. Each tasting includes a sweet-and-savory food pairing featuring items specially chosen to complement an assortment of red, white and port-style wines, along with the winery’s one-of-a-kind Raspberry Merlot dessert wine.
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2 Vintage Ridge Vineyard
Located amongst the rolling hills of Delaplane, Vintage Ridge Vineyard offers a beautiful setting along with a wonderful array of white and red wines. Stop by the first Saturday and Sunday of the month to try out their delicious food pairings, and take advantage of the chance to enjoy a glass of wine and a tasty party platter outdoors on the patio when the weather is nice. Their newly released Ghost Train, made from 60 percent Cabernet Franc and 40 percent Merlot, is an especially unique blend that’s not to be missed.
3 Tarara Winery
Another can’t-miss vineyard, Tarara Winery in Leesburg serves excellent wines and also hosts fun events like the annual Summer Concert Series. For those visiting during the warmer months, the winery’s outdoor deck overlooking the Potomac River is just perfect for sipping a glass of your favorite wine while snacking on an assortment of meats, cheeses, breads and chocolates.
4 Chrysalis Vineyards
With acclaimed wines and gorgeous grounds featuring an outdoor patio and picnic area, Chrysalis Vineyards in Middleburg is the ideal spot to enjoy a relaxing day in the country. The vineyard’s lightly sweet Sarah’s Patio Red and Sarah’s Patio White wines are the perfect summer treat, while the Norton is an absolute must-try any time of year.
5 Sunset Hills Vineyard
In addition to offering a great selection of award-winning wines, Sunset Hills Vineyard in Purcellville is a spectacular venue for weddings, bridal showers and other events of all kinds thanks to its lovely grounds and restored 1870s historic Amish barn. Visit their website to check out listings for the Sunset Serenade Music Series during the spring and summer, or make a reservation to take part in the vineyard’s Premier Wine Tasting the second Sunday of every month.
6 Breaux Vineyards
Home to 18 grape varieties, Breaux Vineyards in Purcellville serves a wide range of incredible red and white wines sure to satisfy any palate. Do a tasting, take a tour and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding mountains while sipping a glass of anything from Viognier or Chardonnay to Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.
7 Three Fox Vineyards
For a glimpse of Italy right in DC's own backyard, Tuscan-style winery Three Fox Vineyards in Delaplane offers a variety of outstanding wines, including the award-winning 2010 Piemontese Nebbiolo and non-vintage Gatto Bianco. Head out when the weather is nice to enjoy a picnic, play horseshoes or even kick back in a hammock.
Have you ever visited any Northern Virginia wineries? What are some of the best vineyards in your own area?
