Jefferson Vineyard

40+ of the Best Wineries Near Charlottesville, VA

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The best wineries near Charlottesville, VA will give you a great opportunity to try fabulous local wines and take in stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and surrounding hills and countryside.

Many wineries are also located close together, which makes travel easy and convenient. In fact, The Monticello Wine Trail allows you to easily explore 40 wineries that are just 25 miles away from Charlottesville!

After exploring the city of Charlottesville and historic Monticello, make sure to venture out of the city and enjoy the many wineries that the region has to offer!

Below are my top recommendations for the best wineries near Charlottesville, VA.

Visiting Charlottesville? Learn all about the best things to do in town!

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Want to learn about the EASIEST way to visit some of the best wineries in Virginia? Check out my recommendations for The Best Virginia Wine Bus Tours!

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Charlottesville, VA
Omni Charlotteville Hotel 
Great for all the Amenities
(Click to Book)
* * *
Graduate Charlottesville 
Great Boutique Hotel
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* * *
Inn at Court Square 
Great for Historic Charm
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Map of Wineries In and Near Charlottesville, VA

The Best Wineries Near Charlottesville, VA

Monticello Wine Trail

The Monticello Wine Trail is a group of about 40 wineries within 25 miles of Charlottesville. It is a great starting point for exploring many of the best wineries in the region.

You can use the Monticello Wine Trail Passport to help plan your visits to the participating wineries.

The passport is a mobile tool that shows you where to find the nearest wineries, and you can even redeem points for prizes, plus get a free wine glass!

The participating wineries are below. You can learn more about some of them by reading further down.

The Best Wineries Near Charlottesville, VA

Veritas Vineyards and Winery

Location

151 Veritas Ln, Afton, VA 22920

Hours

Open Daily: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Description

Veritas Winery is one of the best wineries near Charlottesville, VA, and it is definitely not to be missed! The vineyard also includes an adjacent Farmhouse that features a bed and breakfast, plus an absolutely fabulous dinner! The meal features four courses, each paired with its own wine.

Some of the creative dishes that are served at The Farmhouse include Marcona Almond Vichyssoise, Veal Tenderloin with King Oyster Mushrooms, and Chocolate and Pistachio Semifreddo.

Each dish is perfectly paired with four excellent wines from the Veritas collection, such as a Petit Viognier, a Merlot, and a dessert wine.

The Farmhouse is a gorgeous historic building, and the surroundings include farmland and sheep, a lovely gazebo, and gardens. The setting is perfect for enjoying a relaxing glass of wine.

Food

The Tasting Room offers cheese and charcuterie boards, salads, sandwiches, and flatbreads. The Farmhouse at Veritas offers a restaurant with excellent, elegant meals. 

Dogs Allowed?

Yes, dogs are allowed

Barboursville Vineyards

Location

17655 Winery Rd, Barboursville, VA 22923

Hours

  • Monday to Saturday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Sunday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Description

A trip to Charlottesville wineries would not be complete without a stop at Barboursville Vineyards. This sprawling complex is home to the largest winery in Virginia. It dates back to 1821.

The winery has a huge collection of excellent wines, and a large number of food items and other souvenirs to purchase as well. There is a restaurant and library on the property as well.

You will also want to take some time exploring the surrounding area. A walk down the road from the main building will allow you to view the Landmark Ruins nearby.

Food

The Palladio Restaurant is available for dining. There are also snacks available in the main tasting room. 

Dogs Allowed?

Yes, dogs are allowed.

Jefferson Vineyards

Location

1353 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy, Charlottesville, VA 22902

Hours

Wednesday to Sunday: 11:00 am – 6:00 pm

Description

Jefferson Vineyards, as the name suggests, is the site of a vineyard once owned by founding father Thomas Jefferson almost 250 years ago. It is the site of the first wine company in Virginia. The vineyard was destroyed in 1778, but it was later rebuilt in the 20th century.

There are two tasting rooms where you can purchase wine by the bottle, by the glass, or a seasonal wine flight.

There are also lovely wildflower gardens nearby where guests can sit and enjoy the many wines that Jefferson Vineyards has to offer.

The vineyard also hosts live music from local artists on Sundays from 2 pm to 4 pm, weather permitting.

Food

They serve a selection of cheeses, charcuterie, crackers, and chocolates.

Dogs Allowed?

Yes, dogs are allowed.

Blenheim Vineyards

Location

31 Blenheim Farm, Charlottesville, VA 22902

Hours

Thursday to Sunday: 11:00 am – 5:30 pm (reservations recommended)

Description

Blenheim Winery is actually owned by Dave Matthews of Dave Matthews Band fame. He is a native of Charlottesville and has been the owner of the vineyard since 2000. This is a must-see stop for any fan of the band.

There are nice nods to the band and its music throughout the vineyard, including music for sale (naturally), as well as the fact that Dave actually designed the labels for the wine bottles, which is very cool!

Food

You can purchase a Mini Abundance Box and Dip Platter from Plenty Cville. Guests can also bring their own food. 

Dogs Allowed?

Yes, dogs are allowed.

Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards

Location

5022 Plank Rd, North Garden, VA 22959

Hours

  • Tuesday – Thursday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
  • Friday – Sunday: 11:00 am – 4:30 pm

Description

Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards is one of the most beautiful wineries in the region. It features gorgeous expansive views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. It is also a popular wedding venue.

The farm and vineyard are known for their stunning outdoor spaces, elegant ballroom, and expertly crafted wines made from locally grown grapes.

Some of their wines include Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot.

Food

The vineyard specializes in Farm-to-Table dishes from nearby local Virginia farms. They serve cheese plates, small plates, appetizers, soups, and more. 

Dogs Allowed?

Yes, they are allowed outside, however, they are not allowed as part of the Guided Wine Tastings. 

Keswick Vineyards

Location

1575 Keswick Winery Dr, Keswick, VA 22947

Hours

Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Description

Keswick Vineyards is another excellent Charlottesville winery to visit.

They feature an outdoor tasting bar and courtyard where you can enjoy custom flights of four wines.

Their collection of wines features a variety of red and white wines, including Chardonnay, Viognier, Merlot, Norton, and a dessert wine called Chocolate Sauce that you don’t want to miss!

In addition, the winery features live music year-round on Saturdays.

As an added bonus, you can even enjoy a game of Miniature Golf on-site!

The winery is also a popular wedding venue.

Food

There are food trucks on site on Saturdays and Sundays. The winery also sells a selection of cheeses, meats, crackers, sandwiches, and more. You can also bring a picnic.

Dogs Allowed?

Yes, dogs are allowed.

King Family Vineyards

Location

6550 Roseland Farm, Crozet, VA 22932

Hours

Open Daily: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm

Description

King Family Vineyards is conveniently located only 17 miles from Charlottesville. It features beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain views.

They offer several wine flights, including a White Wine Flight, Red Wine Flight, and Premium Flight.

You can also book a Reserved Tasting, which is a private wine tasting that includes learning about the history of the vineyard.

The winery also offers a Winery Tour and Tasting, which includes a tour of the tank and barrel rooms.

King Family Vineyards has a wide selection of excellent award-winning wines including Viognier, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Crosé (a dry rose named after the town of Crozet, VA), Meritage, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.

King Family Vineyards hosts regular events, such as Trivia & Pizza in the Pavillion on Wednesday nights, Flydog Yoga, Salsa Dancing, Paint and Sip, and much more.

You can find a full schedule of events online.

The vineyard is also home to the Roseland Polo Club, which features polo matches Sundays at noon, from Memorial Day weekend through mid-October.

Food

Food trucks are often onsite. The gift shop sells prepackaged meats, cheeses, crackers, and chocolates. You can also bring your own food for a picnic.

Dogs Allowed?

Yes, dogs are allowed outside.

Early Mountain Vineyards

Location

6109 Wolftown-Hood Rd, Madison, VA 22727

Hours

  • Tuesday and Wednesday: Closed
  • Open All Other Days: 11:00 am – 5:30 pm

Description

Early Mountain Vineyards is located about 27 miles north of Charlottesville in Madison, VA.

The vineyard features a gorgeous, award-winning tasting room that is filled with contemporary decor and abundant warmth and charm. They have outdoor seating areas on an outside patio, as well as picnic tables with umbrellas.

For a special experience, you can book an Elevation Tasting, which features 5 wines paired with food.

The winery hosts live music on select days. You can find a full schedule online.

Food

Early Mountain Vineyards has a restaurant onsite where you can pair your wines with locally sourced dishes.

Some of the items on the menu include Rockfish Crudo (with Ancho Chili Vinaigrette, Thumbelina Carrot, Lime, Toasted Coriander, Red Onion, and Mint); Steamed Mussels
(with White Wine, Pepper Flake, Garlic, Thyme, and Grilled Crostini); and New Frontier Bison New York Strip (with Parmesan Crusted Potato, Cremini Mushroom, Wilted Spinach, and Horseradish Cream.)

You can find a full menu online.

Dogs Allowed?

Yes, dogs are allowed outside, but not inside the tasting room.

Afton Mountain Vineyards

Location

234 Vineyard Ln, Afton, VA 22920

Hours

Thursday to Sunday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Description

Afton Mountain Vineyards boasts a gorgeous setting with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is located about 26 miles west of Charlottesville.

They offer wine tastings featuring 5 wines, including Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Muscat, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Tannat.

They have a number of different seating areas, including a heated/cooled pavilion, a patio, and lawn seating.

For an even more unforgettable visit, you can book a stay at the Vineyard Cottages, which feature a two-bedroom guest house and four one-bedroom cottages. Each cottage has a full kitchen and is pet friendly!

Food

They have light snacks for sale, including cheeses, meats, and crackers. You can also bring your own picnic.

Dogs Allowed?

Yes, dogs are allowed outside but not in the pavilion.

Gabriele Rausse Winery

Location

3247 Carters Mountain Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22902

Hours

  • Sunday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
  • Monday, Thursday, and Friday: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Description

Gabriele Rausse Winery is one of the best wineries in Charlottesville, Virginia. It is a family-owned winery located just 9 miles from downtown Charlottesville.

The winery is uniquely situated in a forest, which makes it a unique hidden gem in the region. A visit to the winery will feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret, secluded retreat.

The winery produces a number of high-quality, handcrafted wines including Malbec, Petit Verdot, Merlot, Muscat, Viognier, and a sparkling Chasselas Dore.

Food

They have fresh homemade sourdough, as well as hummus and cheese.

Dogs Allowed?

Yes, dogs are allowed.

Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard

Location

594 Merrie Mill Farm, Keswick, VA 22947

Hours

  • Tuesday to Wednesday: Closed
  • Thursday to Monday: 10:30 am – 5:30 pm

Description

Merrie Mill Farm and Vineyard is a family-owned winery that features excellent wines, lovely vineyard views, and a full menu of salads, paninis, and wraps to pair with your wine selection.

Some of their wines include a Rose, Viognier, Petit Manseng, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. You can order a tasting flight, which includes 5 wines.

You can also book a longer stay at The Clementine Cottage, which is located next to the Tasting Room. The cottage features 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, a kitchen, a sitting room, and laundry.

Food

They have a menu of Cheese and Charcuterie, Chicken Salad, Artisan Pizzas, Wilted Kale and Grain Salad, Caprese Salad, Grilled Cheese and Coconut Currie Tomato Soup, Cuban Panini, and more.

You can find a full menu online.

Dogs Allowed?

Yes, dogs are allowed.

Glass House Winery

Location

5898 Free Union Rd, Free Union, VA 22940

Hours

  • Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday: 12:00 pm – 5:30 pm 
  • Friday: 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
  • Saturday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Description

If you are a chocolate and wine lover (who isn’t!), then you will definitely want to make a stop at the Glass House Winery.

It is further away from Charlottesville, but a good stop either driving down to Charlottesville or returning back from the Northern Virginia/Washington, D.C. area.

Glass House features chocolate for purchase, as well as chocolate pairings with their dessert wines.

They also have a lovely greenhouse where you can sit and relax while you enjoy your wine and chocolate. 

Food

Outside food is welcome, and cheeses, meats, crackers, chocolates, and tapenades are available for purchase. 

Dogs Allowed?

Yes, dogs are allowed.

DuCard Vineyards

Location

40 Gibson Hollow Ln, Etlan, VA 22719

Hours

  • Monday – Thursday: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
  • Friday: 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm
  • Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Description

DuCard Vineyards has a gorgeous setting amidst a stream and surrounding hills. When you visit you will just want to sit back and soak in the peaceful scenery with a refreshing glass of wine. 

The winery features a variety of excellent wines, including a signature Viognier, Chardonnay, and the excellent Shenandoah.

You will also want to try seasonal specialties like the sparkling wine XOXO and C’est Trop, which is fortified with brandy and aged in whisky barrels.

The vineyard features live music on the patio on Saturday afternoons. A full schedule can be found here.

Food

Outside food is welcome. They also sell baguettes, cheese, sausage, chocolates, and more.

Dogs Allowed?

Yes, dogs are allowed.

Guided Wine Tours

One of the best and most relaxing ways to enjoy the many wineries that Charlottesville has to offer is to schedule a guided driving tour of the local vineyards.

These options often include free pick up and drop off directly at your hotel, and they allow you to just sit back and relax while you are driven and guided in comfort to the local wineries. 

Below are some of my favorite recommendations for Wine Tours in Charlottesville: 

Wish Wish Wine Tours. Wish Wish Wine Tour offers excellent wine and beer tours in the Charlottesville area. Each tour visits up to 3 or 4 local wineries, spending several hours at each place, which is more than enough time to enjoy a flight, and sit back and relax. The prices are affordable and it eliminates the stress of planning and driving.

Click Here to Book

Private Wine Tour via Viator. This is a 5-hour wine tour offered via Viator. It offers a private tour to a local Charlottesville winery of your choice. I have taken many Viator tours over the years, in many different cities, and I have always had a great experience. 

Click Here to Book

Custom Wine Tour via Viator. This is another 5-hour wine tour offered via Viator. It includes private transportation to 3-4 vineyards of your own choice. It also includes an experienced personal Wine Trail guide and optional lunch. 

Click Here to Book

You can learn about even more great wineries in Virginia!