Wednesday, February 8, 2017

Virginia's Most Romantic Wineries: Another Pass

We're taking the easy way out this month - a simple "list" posting. Two years ago, we spotlighted the Top Ten Romantic Virginia wineries (read that post here).

Time to list a few others...and also ask for feedback from readers.

Where do you go for your Valentine's Day (or anti Valentine's Day) celebrations?

The choices on our list from 2015 remain firmly in place in our top ten. Here are some other worthy choices:

Creek's Edge Winery (Taylorstown; Loudoun County)
A barn silo seating area. A real wood fireplace. Acoustic bands. Ample outdoor seating if the weather is freakishly warm. Beautiful wines (particularly their merlot). What's not to ♥?

Veritas Vineyards (Nelson County)
Pretty much the same as above, minus the barn silo seating area. (We'll trade that in for gorgeous mountain views). A consistent winner in Virginia, year after year.

Afton Mountain Vineyards (Nelson County)
A few miles up the road from Veritas. More incredible views, a Tuscany-themed tasting room and patio, and a picturesque lake near the vineyards.
Go for the Petit Verdot - bold and complex.

Cave Ridge Vineyard (Shenandoah Valley; near Woodstock)
Perched up on a steep bluff; intimate tasting room and tasting experience. Don't miss the Riesling; one of the few Virginia wineries with a Finger Lakes-style Riesling. It's all about elevation.

Ox Eye Winery (downtown Staunton)
Located in the heart of the historic wharf district in downtown Staunton, this tasting room has an eclectic, European vibe. Grab a bottle of peppery Lemberger (another rare varietal for the Commonwealth) and unwined.

The Winery at La Grange (near Haymarket)
For a romantic Virginia winery experience, without the long drive (for northern Virginia or DC residents), you can't go wrong here. A historic (and supposedly haunted) old house. Several floors of the house to visit, to get away from crowds (including a funky cellar seating area). And superb offerings. The classic Cab Franc will hit Cupid's spot.

Zephaniah Farm Vineyard (south of Leesburg)
Another nearby location that feels a hundred miles away. A personal, one-of-a-kind seating tasting. And then remain in the mysterious old home, or move over to the new chalet-style tasting room, with its wood decor and rocking chairs. That chambourcin is one of the best in the state.

And your choices for romantic getaways in the state for VAWINOS?