Chesapeake Wine Trail
Is it the terroir of Virginia’s Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula or just the fact that we love our wine? Whatever the reason, you’ll discover several excellent wineries when you travel the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail.
Oak Crest Vineyard & Winery
8215 Oak Crest Dr., King George; 540-663-2813; OakCrestWinery.com
Named after the large oak trees that surround the vineyard, this winery is known for their Bordeaux-style reds and Rhine-style whites. Indulge in a glass of their sweet dessert wines or opt for a drier blend to pair with a selection of sausage and cheese in their elegant tasting room. There’s also a picnic area, perfect for packing your own pairings, and an artisan gift shop. Their Sangria is a must-try on a hot summer day.
Lodging Recommendation: The Bell House Bed and Breakfast in Colonial Beach offers breathtaking views of the Potomac River and was once the summer home of Alexander Graham Bell.
Ingleside Vineyards
5872 Leedstown Road, Oak Grove; 804-224-8687; InglesideVineyards.com
Ingleside is one of the oldest and largest wineries in the state of Virginia. They’re well known for their large selection of wines, which have won numerous awards throughout the state and nation. Ingleside is truly a destination winery, offering tastings, tours, a museum featuring antique wine bottles, a gift shop and two waterfront homes available for rent.
Travel Recommendation: Ingleside is within five miles of two our nation’s president’s historical birthplaces. Visit George Washington’s Birthplace Monument and James Monroe’s Birthplace for a quick history fix.
Caret Cellars
495 Meadow Landing Lane, Caret; 540-413-6454; CaretCellars.com
Caret is the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail’s new kid on the block, but they are certainly not amateurs. You can get a taste of their wines at the bar inside the winery and get a first-hand look at the process, surrounded by stainless steel tanks and French oak barrels.
Dining Recommendation: The Fat Finch Café, located in downtown Tappahannock, is the perfect location to enjoy local, American cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
General’s Ridge Vineyard
1618 Weldons Drive, Hague; 804-472-3172; GeneralsRidgeVineyard.com
As you drive into General’s Ridge, you may well feel like you’re in the hills of Northern California. At least, that’s what owners Richard and Linda Phillips dreamed of when they created this spectacular winery. Visit their “Somewhere in Time” tasting room and sample their 2014 Petit Verdot, which placed silver in the 2017 Governor’s Cup Awards. They also offer on-site lodging.
Dining Recommendation: Tim’s at Coles Point is known for spectacular views, traditional cuisine, and live music and events.
Vault Field Vineyards
2953 Kings Mill Road, Kinsale; 804-472-4430; VaultFieldVineyards.com
If you’re searching for more award-winning reds, Vault Field is the winery spot for you. Upon entering the vineyard you will see rows and rows of grapes, adorned with signs such as “Merlot” or “Chambourcin.” Their tasting room features high ceilings and endless rows of barrels. A mural of a cluster of grapes on the outside of the tasting room makes for a perfect photo op.
Dining Recommendation: Red wine and Italian dishes are a match made in heaven, so venture to Angelo’s Pizza in Montross and enjoy.
Jacey Vineyards
619 Train Lane, Heathsville; 804-580-4053; JaceyVineyards.com
Come by boat or by car to this scenic vineyard. Enjoy tapas in their tasting room or a bottle on the patio. They even offer waterfront villas available for guests. The Jacey Virginia Malbec pairs well with a lean sirloin or chicken.
Dining Recommendation: Tommy’s, located in historic Reedville, features a wide selection of seafood and steaks.
Good Luck Cellars
1025 Good Luck Road, Kilmarnock; 804-435-1416; GoodLuckCellars.com
These handcrafted wines are sure to bring you some good luck. What used to be a gravel and sand mine is now a picturesque vineyard. The large tasting room is the perfect spot to sip their Rip Rap Rose or their award-winning Viognier 2015. Don’t forget to look for a four-leaf clover on your way out.
Dining Recommendation: If you’re in the mood for authentic Thai cuisine or gourmet sushi, Chao Phraya Thai and Sushi Grill is the perfect spot, located on Main Street Kilmarnock.
The Dog and Oyster Vineyard
170 White Fences Dr., Irvington; 804-438-9463; DogAndOyster.com
You can’t miss the massive, 40-foot corkscrew located at the entrance to this place. Their tasting room is nicknamed “The Wine Stand” for its similarity to a roadside vegetable stand, but with a stylish twist. Their award-winning wines are paired with fresh, local oysters and other seafood specialties.
Lodging Recommendation: The vineyard is companion to The Hope and Glory Inn, a gorgeous, boutique hotel located in the heart of Irvington.
