Picture yourself sipping on a chilled, perfectly oaked glass of Chardonnay overlooking a vineyard painted with perfect fall foliage or buried into a sofa cradling a glass of red wine in front of a crackling fire. Where are you? If you think you have to journey to California or Europe, think again. You can experience the beauty and relaxation of wineries and vineyards right in your own backyard. With almost 200 wineries having sprung up in Virginia over the years, no doubt you can find your favorite scenery and bottle without leaving the state.

Winemaking is no new venture for Virginians. From the Native Americans to Thomas Jefferson, many have toiled in the art of winemaking throughout the centuries. Virginia, being perfectly situated between Europe and California, has a temperate climate and varying growing regions, and many taking advantage of the land. Virginia wines are now being recognized worldwide by highly esteemed organizations. Viognier and Cabernet Franc have been getting rave reviews from the critics. Recently, as a result of the governor’s trade and marketing mission in Asia, Virginia’s own Barboursville Winery has received the opportunity to work with a Chinese importer. Governor McDonnell noted, “Virginia wines are recognized as being world class, and I am positive that this deal will continue to raise the domestic and international profiles of our wine industry.”

So, don’t miss the chance to tour and taste at these wineries, as well as meet many of the owners and experience the behind-the-scenes action. Many even have a picturesque spot to pack a picnic and allow you to bring your furry companion. Don’t know which winery is right for you? Here’s a list to get you started. These wineries are in close proximity to Richmond and can be your stepping stone to venturing further into Virginia’s wine country.

BYRD CELLARS
5847 River Road West, Goochland • 457.9463
www.byrdcellars.com
Sat-Sun 12pm-5pm. Year Round.

Tasting Fee: No Charge. $5 Reserve.

Three Goochland neighbors who shared a passion for Virginia wines and a dream to own their own winery came together to open Byrd Cellars. Established in 2008, Byrd Cellars is a collaboration of three vineyards sharing an impressive tasting room adorned with a massive stone fireplace. The oak timber framed building invites you to stay a while with cushy sofas, card games and reading materials with the James River Valley through the picture window. Byrd Cellars takes pride in using environmentally friendly farming practices to cultivate several varieties of American, European and hybrid grapes.

5 Star Recommendation: Norton. A fruity Virginia Norton fermented and aged in stainless steel to bring out the fruit of the dark red, dry wine.

NEW KENT WINERY
8400 Old Church Road, New Kent • 877.932.8240
www.newkentwinery.com
Tues-Sun 10am-6pm.

Tasting Fee: $8.

After eight years of planning, planting and constructing, New Kent Winery opened in May 2008. In the short time they’ve been open, each of their varieties of wine has already won an award. History buffs will enjoy visiting the building made of 80% recycled antique materials dating back to 1852. Bricks laid before the Civil War grace the grounds of the winery. However, there is still much to do as they move towards a 5,000 acre project including lakes, walking paths, stables and adjacent polo grounds. No doubt Richmond will enjoy watching New Kent grow while swirling their vintages.

5 Star Recommendation: Patriot. A refreshingly sweet white wine. Part of each sale is donated to the Patriot Foundation, providing scholarships and support for families of soldiers.

COOPER VINEYARDS
13372 Shannon Hill Road, Louisa • 540.894.5253
www.coopervineyards.com
Open 7 Days a Week                                                       11am-5pm Year Round

Tasting Fee: $5.

This is the first of four wineries that are part of the Heart of Virginia Wine Trail (hovawinetrail.com). Purchase a passport ticket to taste at all four for only $15. Two decadent indulgences have become a sinful pairing at Cooper, with their Noche Chocolate. This unique bottle is an ice wine made with Norton grapes and infused with chocolate essence. Cooper also offers other varieties such as Petit Verdot, red blends and chardonnay with many winning awards. Pack a picnic, and enjoy a glass of wine on the patio overlooking the vineyards.

5 Star Recommendation: Viognier. Honeysuckle and pineapple aromas give way to flavors of peaches and fresh apricot in this full-bodied, well-structured wine.
 

LAKE ANNA WINERY
5621 Courthouse Rd., Spotsylvania • 540.895.5085
www.lawinery.com
Wed-Sat 11am-5pm. • Sun 1pm-5pm.

Tasting Fee: $3.

While on a trip to France in 1981, brothers Jeff and Eric Heidig observed the similarities in the climate and soil of France’s grape-growing regions to their own farm. After returning home, they planted vines that grew into the Lake Anna Winery that was completed in 1990. Ten Lake Anna wines have been awarded medals including the International Eastern Wine Competition. Venture out on October 22 for their special Oktoberfest celebration featuring local music and German cuisine to compliment their outstanding wines. Lake Anna is also part of the Heart of Virginia Wine Trail.

5 Star Recommendation: Totally Red. A non-pretentious, enjoyable wine. No red cherries or spicy berries. Just award-winning Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Chambourdin.

GRAYHAVEN WINERY
4675 East Grey Fox Circle, Gum Springs • 804.556.3917
www.grayhavenwinery.com
Open 7 Days a Week 11am-5pm. Monday 12pm-4pm.

Tasting Fee: $3.

What started out as a retirement venture in 1978 steadily grew into a family business. Lyn and Chuck Peple, along with their daughters, began producing hand-crafted wines from Vinifera and French hybrid grapes in 1995. Small batches are made from some of the most exotic grapes in the state to allow the wine to mature at its own rate. They annually host the largest South African Festival in the country featuring two days of live entertainment, cuisine and, of course, wine. Or just stop by as part of the Heart of Virginia Wine Trail to experience their unique old-style tasting room.

 5 Star Recommendation: Trekker. A special reserve release just for the South African Food & Wine Festival. A blend of Pinotage and Petit Verdot.

www.jamesrivercellars.com
Sun-Mon 11am-5pm. Tues-Sat 10am-6pm.

Tasting Fee: $5.

This family owned and operated winery began growing grapes in 1998 and opened its doors in 2001. The young, dynamic staff has worked hard to produce 15 varieties of distinctive flavors, resulting in many awards, such as the Gold Medal in the Governor’s Cup for their Gewurztraminer. Sip these phenomenal wines while listening to live music at one of their regular events in the serene European style gardens. Visit James River Cellars as part of the Heart of Virginia Wine Trail. You may even catch a glimpse of Charlie, the winery cat!

5 Star Recommendation:  Rad Red. A blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Smooth in character, soft in tannins with berry tones. Some proceeds will be donated to the Massey Cancer Center.

WINDSONG WINERY
5801 Funny Tree Trail, Goochland      804.457.2865                  www.windsongwinery.com

Fri-Sun 11am-5pm.

After months of extensive research and travel, Jim and Sherry Ramey made it their goal to introduce their favorite wine, Dornfelder–a German red wine, to Virginia. In 1997 they purchased land and spent the next six years getting it ready for the planting of the vines. You will know you’ve arrived at Windsong Farm when you spot the Funny Tree, a rare find today, on the left side of the road. Created by Native Americans by tying saplings to mark their trails, these trees grew in unusual forms and still serve as landmarks.

5 Star Recommendation:  Dornfelder. A German grape that grows exceedingly well in Central Virginia and produces dark full bodied wine full of character.

SAUDE CREEK WINERY
16230 Cooks Mill Road, New Kent     804.966.5896
www.saudecreek.com
11am-6pm Everyday except Tuesday.

Tasting Fee: $5.

One of Virginia’s newest wineries, Saude Creek opened in July 2011. Offering views rivalling Charlottesville, the facility overlooks the Pamunkey River from a height that seems mountainous. Sip on one of their 11 wines on the wrap-around porch, a patio or the bird’s nest. Jason Knight & John Britt chose the location for it’s mineral-rich clay soils that contribute to complex and food-friendly wines. The winery site reputedly once boasted Frank’s Tavern, a Colonial Inn and Publick House for wayfarers, such as George Washington and French General Rochambeau, riding to and from Williamsburg.

5 Star Recommendation: Saude Creek Red. A blend of several varietals, including Merlot and Chancellor. A light semi-dry, easy drinking red.

WOODLAND VINEYARD

15501 Genito Road,Midlothian • 804.739.2774
www.woodlandvineyard.com
Sat-Sun 1pm-5pm. Mid March-Early September

Tasting Fee: $2 for six. $4 for nine.

One of the smallest wineries in Virginia, Woodland was opened by Melissa Jelfma in 2004. Three years later, her merlot won a silver medal at the Virginia State Fair. Visit the winery for a tasting hosted by the winemaker herself! This is a personal experience that isn’t often found at larger wineries. Melissa has plans to add another acre and a half of producing land in another location. Celebrate the harvest of the grapes on October 8 at the Annual Woodland Vineyard Harvest Party. Learn about the fermentation process, taste fermenting wine, savor light hors d’oeurves and try their “wine” ice cream!

5 Star Recommendation: Chardonnay. 100% Chardonnay fermented and aged in French oak. Taste-apple, banana and creamy vanilla.