Monticello Wine Region

Central Virginia
Dynamic winemakers are creating a unique wine region that features wines with an authentic expression of place, the high quality of these wines are often recognized in national and international wine competitions.

Established in 1984

Varieties
  • CABERNET FRANC
  • CHARDONNAY
  • CABERNET SAUVIGNON
  • VIOGNIER
  • Climate
    HUMID SUBTROPICAL/MARITIME IN HIGHLANDS

    Total Area

    APPROXIMATELY 1,250 SQUARE MILES
    It was on top of Monticello mountain where Thomas Jefferson spent years attempting to grow European grape varieties, without success. Today, more than half of the state's widely praised vineyards are located in what is known as the Monticello Viticultural Area. And it is here in the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, that you will find most of Central Virginia's wineries.

    Monticello wine country, in the heart of Charlottesville is home to thirty vineyards and wineries along five trails. Tucked in the hillsides you will find shops, roadside farm stands, farm to table restaurants, charming B&B's and even a few breweries. Drive through the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains as you explore the small boutique wineries and larger state of the art wineries of the region, taste award winning wines and relax among the beautiful bucolic hills, farms and vineyards.

    The elevation makes the area cool enough for grape growing but the sunny hot days of summer allow the grapes to ripen. The pockets of different climates or microclimates in the area gives vitcuturists multiple places to grow grapes with the perfect balance of sun and coolness. The variety of soils, good drainage, and improved farming allow the opportunity to make the most of the land, producing the highest quality and most awarded wines in the state.

    Visit the Monticello Wine Region in the late spring or early fall for comfortable temperatures and lush vineyards.

    The Wineries of the Region

    Stay Among The Vines

    Close your eyes and imagine sitting at a table in a tropical conservatory, indulging on homemade chocolates and sipping a glass of 2015 Cabernet Franc/Barbera, you were just transported to Glass House Winey B&B in the heart of Monticello Wine Trail. Glass House offers a unique experience to those wishing to experience the Virginia wine culture.

    Named the "Best Bed & Breakfast In VA for a Wine Weekend Getaway" by Virginia Wine Lover Magazine, Arcady Vineyard Bed and Breakfast has 14 beautiful acres to explore and is the only B&B in Charlottesville with a working vineyard. Conveniently located in a cluster of wineries just over 2 miles from Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, they pride themselves in “buying local” as much as they can, and practice green and sustainable habits as much as possible.

    Enjoy sprawling views of grapevines out your back door and the panoramic mountain view that surrounds them. Afton Mountain Vineyard , Guest House and Vineyard Cottages are the perfect way to celebrate a romantic weekend or just a relaxing getaway!


    Experience The Region

    The Farmhouse at Veritas is a 8 room bed and breakfast adjacent to Veritas Vineyards & Winery in Afton, Virgina. Tuesday through Saturday nights at 6:30 pm. they offer a four-course, wine paired meals which feature home grown and house made Farm-to-Fork menus prepared weekly by Chef Andy and Chef Coleman. A unique place to enjoy a meal amongst the vines.

    The end of March brings with it the week long Monticello Wine Trail Festival. Over the course of the week, guests will experience the dynamic wine culture of the Monticello American Viticultural Area (AVA). From winemaker brunch, lunch and dinners to vineyard tours, an award show and wine auction, the week offers something for every wine lover.

    Nestled amid the foothills of the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains and about a hundred miles south of Washington, D.C., the greater Charlottesville region offers a thriving community and vanguard of arts and culture that's both boldly innovative and grounded in rich tradition. Not to meantion its wine, beer & food scene!


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