Virginia is a state with a rich and diverse wine culture, with over 300 wineries spread across every corner of the state. From the Chesapeake Bay to the Appalachian Mountains, Virginia’s vineyards offer an unparalleled variety of wine-tasting experiences. Some of the most popular varietals grown in Virginia include Viognier, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Chardonnay, among others.
What makes Virginia stand out as a wine destination is its unique offerings, such as kayaking to a winery, listening to bluegrass music while enjoying local wines, or sipping regional wines at a National Park or a famous landmark.
Virginia Peninsula Wine Trail
Discover the hidden gem of the new Virginia Peninsula Wine Trail, where the wine culture is thriving and waiting to be explored! Tucked away in the Atlantic Coastal Plain, this emerging wine region takes advantage of its location near the Chesapeake Bay, resulting in a dynamic climate ideal for cultivating different grape varieties.
The Virginia Peninsula Wine Trail has six wineries, each offering a unique selection of wines. These wineries include Gauthier Vineyard, Jolene Family Winery, New Kent Winery, Saudé Creek Vineyards, Upper Shirley Vineyards, and Williamsburg Winery. Each winery has its own unique charm and personality, offering a wide range of wine choices, from full-bodied reds to refreshing whites.
Gauthier Vineyard
Gauthier Vineyard is a unique family-owned working farm, equestrian center, vineyard, and winery in New Kent County, Virginia. The owners, Mo and Sandi Gauthier, both retired Navy Captains, bought their farm in 2010 and planted vines with the help of friends and family. Since then, they have established a tasting room and wine-making facility. Their wines are 100% Virginia grape and are grown on the property or on leased vines in Shenandoah Valley. The tasting room overlooks the vineyard and a natural pond providing the perfect backdrop while enjoying a flight of whites or reds.
Jolene Family Winery
Nestled in the scenic beauty of New Kent County, Virginia, Jolene Family Winery is a family-run establishment that promises a unique and unforgettable experience. The Mikelaites family takes pride in creating exceptional wines that reflect the distinct terroir of the region. Situated off the Pocahontas Trail, the winery offers breathtaking views of Tom Brooks Lake on one side and the vineyards on the other. With a variety of whites, rosés, and reds, you can indulge in award-winning, hand-crafted wines in the cozy tasting room or a fully furnished lakeside lounge tent.
New Kent Winery
New Kent Winery at Dombroski Vineyards is a family-owned business that takes pride in delivering exquisite wines and outstanding service to its customers. The Dombroski family has a passion for wine, and it is evident in the way they work together in every aspect of the winery’s operation. Together, they have continued to grow the winery’s operations by planting additional vines and adding a new wedding venue, the Vineyard Estate at New Kent Winery. They also own and operate the County’s first farm brewery, Talleysville Brewing Company.
Saudé Creek Vineyards
Saudé Creek Vineyards started out as a small cider business called Saudé Creek Farms, which eventually transitioned into wine production. The winery is located in New Kent County, Virginia, and sits atop one of the highest points in the area, offering gorgeous views of the Pamunkey River. Jason Knight, the owner and winemaker, began by producing 150 cases of an apple wine called Saudé Creek White, and from there, he continued to expand by planting apple trees and grape vines on the 100-acre property.
Upper Shirley Vineyards
Located on a tributary of the James River, Upper Shirley Vineyards is a beautiful winery offering stunning riverfront views. The winery’s 22-acre vineyard produces grapes that are nurtured by the rich soil of the Tidewater region, which is the oldest tilled land in the United States. At Upper Shirley Vineyards, you can sample the winery’s award-winning wines in the elegant tasting room or on the covered porch, which offers an incredible view of the James River.
Williamsburg Winery
The Williamsburg Winery is spread over 342 acres just minutes from historic Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia. With 52 acres under vine, the property features well-selected varietals that produce award-winning wines. The Williamsburg Winery has indoor/outdoor tasting venues, multiple event spaces, two on-site restaurants, and a boutique hotel. Two generations of the Duffeler family preside over the Winery, drawing inspiration from Europe’s finest.
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This article originally appeared on Wander With Alex. Featured Photo Credit: [@GiorgioMagini/DepositPhotos]
Alexandrea Sumuel Groves is a nationally syndicated travel writer. She is a member of the Society of American Travel Writers, a digital publisher on several major online news websites, and the creator behind Wander Worthy and Virginia Trip Guide.
