Touring the Virginia countryside in search of the state’s best wineries is one of the most memorable and romantic weekend escapes you can plan. If you have a special occasion coming up and want to treat your significant other to a winery road trip, consider stopping at these favorite locations.
Glass House Winery
Located in Free Union about half an hour north of Charlottesville, Glass House Winery offers a private lake, tropical conservatory, and on-site confectionery where the owner makes homemade chocolates. This boutique winery is in the heart of the renowned Monticello Wine Trail, so countless visitors stop by each year to enjoy the crafted artisan wines made from grapes grown solely on the winery property and in central Virginia.
There’s an award-winning bed and breakfast on-site, too, so you can easily make this one a unique weekend getaway. The winery itself is open Thursday through Sunday and on holiday Mondays from noon to 5:30.
Stone Tower Winery
Situated on Hogback Mountain along the rolling hills of Loudoun County, Stone Tower Winery was once old farmland down a long country road. These 206 exquisite acres have been transformed into a world-class vineyard. The brand new tasting room is ideal for sipping the current vintages, and a la carte snacks are also available, including charcuterie, artisan chocolate, crackers, and imported cheeses. You can even opt for a specialty tour of Stone Tower Winery and learn about the winemaking process from growth to harvest.
Otium Cellars
Located in Purcelleville, this German-inspired winery is situated among silos and horse pastures. If you love German wine and want to explore its Bavarian roots, Otium Cellars is the place to be. Enjoy the winery’s rich, buttery chardonnay, the spicy blaufrankisch, the powerful dornfelder, or the elegant cabernet sauvignon. The winery is part of Goose Creek Farms, a private equestrian facility, so the setting is picturesque and perfect for creating romantic memories.
Doukenie Winery
If you happen to be a wine novice, head to Doukenie Winery in Hillsboro. The winemaker here is recognized for his helpfulness in steering novices toward the right wines, so you never have to feel like you’re out of your element. Tastings at Doukenie Winery are just $8 and include a total of six wines: three reds, two whites, and a dessert wine. When you’re exploring your wine palate for the first time, this kind of tasting provides the perfect opportunity.
Winery at La Grange
A cozy, comfortable winery reminiscent of a coffee shop, the Winery at La Grange is located in an 18th-century manor in Haymarket. The staff are more than happy to relate any ghostly experiences that have been encountered throughout the house, including the supposed haunting of the previous owner. Wine tastings are $13 a person, and you can’t beat the peaceful country setting and outdoor walkways.
Wine tastes vary, but thankfully, Virginia offers numerous wineries that showcase the best of their harvests. When you’re planning a weekend escape and want to make the most of the state’s wine trail, be sure to add a couple of these stops to your list.
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