Virginia Wine Month Kicks Off a Month of โฃFestivities Across the Commonwealth
Richmond, VA โฃ- October marks the 36th annual Virginia Wine Month, a party of a thriving industry thatโค contributesโ over $200 million in tax revenue and supports 10,652 full-time jobs across the Commonwealth. What began in 1988 with just 40โ wineries has blossomed into a landscape boasting โคover 350 โคestablishments cultivating more than 4,200 acres ofโค wine grapes, valued at $22.2โ million. โข
Virginia consistently ranks among โthe topโฃ ten wine grape-producing states in the nation, a โฃtestament โtoโข the dedication of its vintners – a tradition Governor Glenn Youngkin โacknowledges stretches “from theโ founding fathers to the innovators of today.” To fully experience the harvest and honor this legacy, here are five festive ways to celebrate Virginia Wine Month throughout October:
1. Explore the Northern Virginia Wine Region: With roughly 100 wineries spanning from Mount Vernon to Skyline Drive and Harper’s โขFerry, Northern virginia offers a diverse tasting experience. Focus on the Middleburg AVA โขinโค Fauquier and Loudoun counties for a concentrated cluster of award-winning vineyards.
2. Discover Virginia’s AVAs: Virginia is home to ten distinct geographic wine regions, including eight โฃdesignated Americanโฃ Viticultural Areas (AVAs). Venture beyond Northern Virginia to exploreโฃ the Eastern Shore, Chesapeake Bay, or the scenic shenandoah Valley, each โฃoffering unique terroir andโ varietals.
3.Attend a Harvestโฃ Festival: Many wineries host special events throughoutโข October,โข including grape stomps, live music, โขand vineyard tours. Check local winery websites for specificโข datesโข and details.
4. Plan a Weekend Getaway: Combine wine tasting with a relaxing weekend escape.โ numerous bed and breakfasts and hotels are located near Virginia’s wine regions, offering convenient access to โคvineyards and local attractions.
5.Hostโข Your Own Fall Gathering: Inspired by the spirit of Virginia Wine Month, gatherโฃ friends and family for a wine-themed tasting at home. Utilize resources online to learn about pairingโค Virginiaโค winesโ with seasonalโ foodsโฃ and create a memorable experience.