The Magical Virginia Wine Festival Tour
In 1979, the number of Virginia wineries was a meager 6. Now, this number has grown to 92 licensed wineries, and the area continues to grow. In addition to growing in the number of Virginia wineries, wineries from this region are also growing in recognition. Wines from the area have been winning multiple national and international awards, including the 'Best of Show' award in a California competition.
The Virginia Wine Festival Experience
Virginia is home to hundreds of spectacular wine festivals. Here, visitors can celebrate in the grape harvest, sample multiple wines, and even help stomp out some grapes. Visitors to a Virginia wine festival can enjoy listening to jazz and blues music as they dine on down home Virginia cooking. They can also enjoy a new wine straight from the tap or experience an aged wine brought to the festival by one of the many participating Virginia wineries. The Montpelier Wine Festival, for example, generally takes place in May and offers wine tasting opportunities from approximately 20 different Virginia wineries. It also offers historical displays and games and activities for children.
On a larger scale, the Richmond Wine Festival offers wine tasting from wineries from around the world. It also includes menu samplings from some of the areas best chefs and live and silent auctions for exquisite bottles of wine.
Self-Guided Tours of Virginia Wineries
In addition to the Virginia wine festival opportunities, the state of Virginia has made it simple for visitors to enjoy self-guided tours of Virginia wineries. First of all, the state offers maps providing directions from winery to winery. Special signs with a grape cluster can be found within a 10 mile radius of many of the Virginia wineries. These signs help keep visitors on track during their self-guided tour. Many even say how many more miles are left to the winery.
Since many of the Virginia wineries are small family owned properties, it is best to arrange large tours ahead of time. In addition, some of the wineries may be closed at times during the season as the family takes time off to enjoy family activities.
Other Attractions When Visiting Virginia Wineries
In addition to the many fine wineries found in Virginia, the state has much of the nation’s unparalleled beauty to explore. While participating in the Annual Virginia Wine & Craft Festival in Front Royal, for example, visitors can also take in the scenic wonders of the Shenandoah National Park by taking a cruise down Skyline Drive. They can also marvel at the sites within the Skyline Caverns, or visit the nearby Luray Caverns for a special treat.