Wine in Charlottesville , Virginia
When it comes to the search for great wine , you don ' t always need to head straight to Napa Valley . If you ' re on the east coast , make your way to Charlottesville , Virginia . Charlottesville is home to some of the most impressive wineries in the region . Charlottesville is also where “ Thomas Jefferson and Philip Mazzei first began the American wine revolution .” With so many wineries in the area , there are plenty of different options to choose from .
Jefferson Vineyards
We encourage you to head to Jefferson Vineyards . Jefferson Vineyards is a family-owned and operated winery that is geographically the closest to town . The estate itself is a part of Virginia ’ s wine history , and though some of the vineyards have been replanted , there is still a unique , vintage feel to the property . With four separate vineyards , the winery is able to produce quality vino with distinct flavors . There is the Church Vineyard , which produces Pinot Gris , Chardonnay , and Merlot . The Upper Vineyard ’ s varietals also include Chardonnay and Merlot , along with Petit Verdot , Viognier , and Malbec . The Apple Vineyard , made up of Rabun Clay soil , produces Merlot , Cabernet Franc , and the Petit Verdot as well . The final vineyard , Sunnyfields Vineyard , is the newest vineyard on the property . It was planted in 2003 , and produces Merlot , Cabernet Franc , and Petit Verdot .
Actual tours are not currently available , but you are welcome to book a private tasting on site . If you have a group of six people or less , you can take part in the public tasting , which is around $ 12 per person . The public tasting includes a souvenir glass as well . Private tastings must be booked in advance and are required for groups of more than six people .
The private tastings are $ 20 per person , and come with all of the wines included in the classic / public tasting , as well as cheese , crackers , and two specialty reserve wines . Private tastings are only available during weekdays at this time . Along with the tastings , whether public or private , you will experience the wines in several different spaces .
The original tasting room used to be a horse stable , and therefore carries on the rustic charm of the space . The winery tasting room is often used in winter or to host wine dinners , and has a cozy fireplace , as well as high , lofted ceilings with exposed beams . During the summer , you can enjoy the tree deck , which is an inviting outdoor space that puts you in the center of the trees , including a few that grow up through the deck itself . The garden patio is another elegant summer option , with 360 degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains that surround the property . Bring your pets and children , and let them play in the open field area , where you can enjoy your tasting in the freeing space . The open field is also where concerts and picnics are held , so bring your lunch and relax on the soft grasses .