Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway from Washington, DC or are on a Virginia road trip, visiting a winery in Northern Virginia is a guaranteed fun time. Stop for a wine tasting, buy a bottle to go, or enjoy a picnic while admiring vineyard views as you discover delicious Virginia wines. If you're a wine lover, you'll surely enjoy these spectacular Northern Virginia wineries and vineyards!
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Northern Virginia Wineries & Vineyards
As you drive out of Washington, DC and into northern Virginia, you'll start noticing signs for vineyards and wineries along the highway. And the further you venture into the picturesque countryside, the more signs you'll see. This is because within a two-hour drive of DC, northern Virginia is home to over 100 wineries and vineyards!
Given the abundance of excellent NoVA wineries, how can you choose which ones to visit? To help get you started, I'm sharing some of my favorite wineries in Northern Virginia that I've visited multiple times over the years.
With excellent views, delicious wine, and cozy countryside settings, these wineries are the perfect place to relax. Plus, if you're looking for a place to hold an event, such as a wedding, rehearsal dinner, bridal shower, or even a corporate retreat - these wineries and vineyards make perfect venues!
A Few Things to Know about My Favorite Northern Virginia Wineries
From 2012-2017 when I lived in DC, I devoted many weekends to wine tasting and picnicking in vineyards throughout northern Virginia. As a result of over five years of "research", I can highly recommend the wineries and vineyards on this list.
That being said, everyone has different tastes. So let me tell you a few things that I appreciate in a winery. That way, you'll have an idea whether these wineries might be ones you'd enjoy as well.
1) Friendly and Welcoming Staff
Nothing is better than feeling like you're welcome and that the staff is happy you're there. I've had wonderful tastings at all of these wineries. Though sometimes you have to be prepared for it to be a bit more rushed than others - like on busy weekends.
2) Picturesque Views
Since you're going out of your way to escape the city, why wouldn't you want a picturesque view to look at while drinking your wine? At least, that's my thought! Whether overlooking a valley or the Blue Ridge Mountains, many wineries in Northern Virginia have gorgeous views.
Though sometimes, just being in a pastoral setting on a farm looking at some vines and a pond is equally calming.
3) Dry, Full-bodied Red Wines
Here's the one where our tastes might diverge. Simply put, I love dry wines, especially full-bodied reds. And my favorite wineries all have at least a few on the menu. In fact, many wineries on this list specialize in Old-World style Bordeaux red blends.
As you travel around northern Virginia wineries, you'll notice a fair number of sweet or semi-sweet wines on tasting menus. Although some of the wineries on my list have sweet or fruit wine options, be aware that some of them do not.
Planning a Trip to Northern Virginia Wine Country
If you're planning a trip with friends or a romantic escape from the city, booking a vacation rental in Northern Virginia's wine country is a great idea!
With over 100 wineries in the region, obviously you could spend a whole weekend tasting wine. But Northern Virginia's quaint towns and historical landmarks, as well as hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor adventures are also fantastic activities to vary things up.
Note about COVID-19 Precautions: At this time, many wineries have adjusted their tastings or limited their in-person winery offerings to comply with safety regulations. Please check the website before visiting any of these wineries to find out up-to-dates opening hours and safety policies.
Winery Transportation and Tours
If you're visiting the DC area and would like to visit several wineries, you might consider booking a Northern Virginia Winery tour and transportation.
These winery tours are great for groups on a day trip from Washington, DC. Plus, if you'd like to visit multiple wineries in a day, a tour ensures no one has to miss out on the wine tastings in order to be the designated driver.
List of Northern Virginia Wineries
As you can see from the map below, these wonderful wineries are scattered throughout northern Virginia. I'll begin my list with wineries closest to DC and head west along Interstate 66. Then, I'll finish up with the wineries to the north near Purcellville and Leesburg.
All driving times are calculated from downtown DC (1400 K St., NW - my former office) and are approximate. Traffic always adds extra minutes!
Paradise Springs Winery
Location: Clifton, VA
Distance from DC: 28 miles
Travel Time from DC: ~45 min
Paradise Springs Winery website
Children Allowed? Yes, under supervision. Certain areas are adult-only.
Dog-friendly? Yes, dogs on leash allowed on lawn only.
Less than an hour's drive from Washington, DC, Paradise Springs Winery is a fun, family-friendly winery that's a favorite among Washingtonians. Nestled on 36-acres in Clifton, VA, this property is a green oasis which is perfect for a weekend wine outing.
Enjoy a tasting in the 3000-sq ft tasting room then head out to the back patio to relax with a bottle of wine and some friends. On Saturdays, live music is a welcome addition to the winery experience. Check the website to find out who's playing on the day you'd like to visit (and when the live music starts up again).
Fun fact: Paradise Springs Winery has the distinction of being the first bicoastal winery. If you're on the west coast, be sure to visit the tasting room in downtown Santa Barbara, California.
Address: 13219 Yates Ford Road, Clifton, VA 20124
The Winery at Bull Run
Location: Centreville, VA
Distance from DC: 28 miles
Travel Time from DC: ~45 min
The Winery at Bull Run website
Children Allowed? Yes, under supervision. Certain areas are adult-only.
Dog-friendly? No.
Located in Fairfax County, The Winery at Bull Run claims it's "the closest winery to DC" though it seems like it might be a tie to me. Regardless, its convenient location makes it a great day trip into Virginia wine country! Not only does this winery make delicious Virginia wine, but they've preserved pieces of the property's former structures and these ruins give it a cool historic vibe.
Wine enthusiasts with an affinity for American history will appreciate the winery's location right on the edge of the 5,000-acre Manassas National Battlefield Park where the first battle of the U.S. Civil War (1861) was fought.
On the property, you'll find ruins of Hillwood Mansion which was used at some point during either the first or second Battle of Bull Run as a field hospital. These remnants add a unique vibe to this Virginia winery.
Hillwood Mansion ruins
Address: 15950 Lee Highway, Centreville, VA 20120
The Winery at La Grange
Location: Haymarket, VA
Distance from DC: 41 miles
Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr
The Winery at La Grange website
Children Allowed? Yes.
Dog-friendly? Yes, outside only.
A premier winery in Prince William County, Virginia, The Winery at La Grange sits on 20 acres of land which was once the historic La Grange farm.
One of its unique features is the historic 3-story red brick manor house (circa 1790) which has been restored and now serves as the tasting room. If you're lucky, you might meet the resident ghosts - Benoni Harrison, a Civil War soldier, and the ghost of a little girl. Can't say I've ever met one of its ghosts, but I did enjoy many afternoons picnicking on the lawn after a wine tasting in the manor.
Address: 4970 Antioch Road, Haymarket, VA 20169
Boxwood Estate Winery
Location: Middleburg, VA
Distance from DC: ~50 miles
Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 20 min
Boxwood Estate Winery website
Children Allowed? No, guests 21+ only.
Dog-friendly? No.
Boxwood Estate Winery is a sleek yet cozy space to enjoy delicious premium wines crafted in the Bordeaux tradition on a historic landmark farm. And in fact, several Bordeaux varietals are grown on the property.
Right in the heart of Virginia's horse and hunt country, Boxwood Estate Winery is surrounded by world-famous horse farms and close to historic downtown Middleburg. Known for its boutique shops and fine dining, Middleburg is a great town in which to end a day of wine tasting or a perfect spot for a girls' weekend getaway.
Address: 2042 Burrland Lane, Middleburg, VA 20117
Pearmund Cellars
Location: Broad Run, VA
Distance from DC: 44 miles
Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr
Pearmund Cellars website
Children Allowed? No, guests must be 21+.
Dog-friendly? Yes.
Consistently voted one of Virginia's best wineries, Pearmund Cellars is a Virginia winery gem you don't want to miss! On the property's Meriwether Vineyard, they're growing the oldest Chardonnay in Virginia. Because of a commitment to use Virginia grapes and strong partnerships with other Virginia vineyards, you can be sure you're tasting the best Virginia has to offer.
Plus, they have a wide variety of wines from which to choose so you're sure to find something you like.
Head out to Pearmund Cellars for a wine tasting and a picnic on the beautiful grassy lawn. If it's a chilly day, warm up next to one of the outdoor fire pits while sipping a big, bold red.
Address: 6190 Georgetown Rd, Broad Run, VA 20137
Granite Heights Winery
Location: Warrenton, VA
Distance from DC: 55 miles
Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 30 min
Granite Heights Winery website
Children Allowed? Yes.
Dog-friendly? Yes, outside only.
A boutique winery owned and run by a husband and wife team, Granite Heights Winery specializes in small batch, high quality wines. Enjoy a leisurely tasting in the charming 19th-century farmhouse to learn more about the wines. Then, purchase a bottle and head outside to relax by the pond and soak in the Virginia countryside.
Address: 8141 Opal Road, Warrenton, VA 20186
Narmada Winery
Location: Amissville, VA
Distance from DC: 61 miles
Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 30 min
Narmada Winery website
Children Allowed? Yes, under supervision.
Dog-friendly? Yes, outside only.
If you're an avid traveler like I am, then you'll be pleasantly surprised when you arrive at Narmada Winery. Owners Pandit and Sudha Patil are originally from Mumbai, India and they've brought the vibrancy of their home culture into the Virginia winery experience.
As staff pours you a tasting, you'll hear more about the family as well as get recommendations for interesting food pairings. One that stands out is 2015 Yash-Vir, a classic Bordeaux blend, which pairs well with Rasika’s Green Masala Chicken.
After the tasting, stay and enjoy the beautiful grassy lawn, pond. If you love Indian food like I do, be sure to order some tasty samosas and butter chicken from the kitchen!
Address: 43 Narmada Lane, Amissville, VA 20106
Rappahannock Cellars
Location: Huntly, VA
Distance from DC: 66 miles
Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 20 min
Rappahannock Cellars website
Children Allowed? Yes, certain areas are 21+ only.
Dog-friendly? Yes, outdoors only.
Located at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Rappahannock Cellars is a family-run winery and vineyard that produces delicious European-style wines. They also make one of the best port-style wines I've tasted in Virginia!
From its outside patios and picnic areas, you'll have beautiful views of the vineyards and the rolling hills. Many of its inside spaces are for wine club members only. So if you're not a member, it's best to visit Rappahannock Cellars on a nice day. That way, you can comfortably sit outside or on the rooftop patio to enjoy a bottle of wine and a picnic after your tasting.
Address: 14437 Hume Road, Huntly, VA, 22640
Chateau O'Brien at Northpoint
Location: Markham, VA
Distance from DC: 59 miles
Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 30 min
Chateau O'Brien website
Children Allowed? No, guests must be 21+.
Dog-friendly? No.
Chateau O'Brien at Northpoint is a family-owned and operated winery nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains with beautiful views from its outdoor covered patio. With its intimate tasting rooms and knowledgeable staff, you're sure to have an educational and enjoyable tasting experience.
During your visit, be sure to try the world-renowned Tannat Limited Reserve and also their apple dessert wine - made with delicious Virginia apples!
Not a great photo of the bottle, but hard to ignore the view behind it!
Address: 3238 Railstop Road, Markham, VA 22643
Fox Meadow Winery
Location: Linden, VA
Distance from DC: 66 miles
Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 20 min
Fox Meadow Winery website
Children Allowed? Yes.
Dog-friendly? Yes, on leash & outside only.
Perched on Blue Mountain amidst the rolling green hills, Fox Meadow Winery has been making delicious wine for every palate for 15 years. Whether you prefer the Old World style dry wines or light and refreshing fruity wines, they have a wine you're going to love!
Plus, Fox Meadow is one of those wineries with a view that makes you want to visit just to sit and sip a glass of wine while basking in the peaceful countryside surroundings.
Address: 3310 Freezeland Road, Linden, VA 22642
Bluemont Vineyard
Location: Bluemont, VA
Distance from DC: 59 miles
Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 15 min
Bluemont Vineyard website
Children Allowed? Yes.
Dog-friendly? Yes.
From its spot atop a ridge in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Bluemont Vineyard offers one of the best views in Northern Virginia Wine Country. And this farm winery grows not only grape vines, but also other fruits such as cherries and blackberries. Between the orchards, vines, and the breathtaking views, it's gorgeous place to try some of the tasty vintages.
In addition to normal wine tastings, Bluemont Vineyard offers several elevated experiences, such as a Farm-to-Table food-wine pairing. Also, vineyard tasting tours and sangria-making lessons with fresh fruit picked from the orchards. On weekends, you can enjoy live music in the evenings at the Harvest Room Kitchen with small plates and pours.
Address: 18755 Foggy Bottom Road, Bluemont, VA 20135
8 Chains North Winery
Location: Waterford, VA
Distance from DC: 54 miles
Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 15 min
8 Chains North Winery website
Children Allowed? Yes, under close supervision.
Dog-friendly? Yes, plus there is fenced "dog park" in which dogs can run off-leash.
8 Chains North Winery is a dog-friendly winery in Loudon County specializing in Old World style wines poured by welcoming and knowledgeable staff. The outside patio with beautiful vineyard views is a lovely spot to savor the afternoon with a glass of wine. Or, in the winter, cozy up to the roaring fire with a hearty red.
Bring along your pups as there's an off-leash fenced off dog park where they can run and frolic to enjoy the day as well!
Address: 38593 Daymont Lane, Waterford, VA 20197
Hillsborough Winery, Brewery, & Vineyard
Location: Hillsboro, VA
Distance from DC: 52 miles
Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 15 min
Hillsborough Winery website
Children Allowed? Yes.
Dog-friendly? Yes, outside only.
Overlooking the foothills of the Shenandoah, Hillsborough Winery, Brewery, and Vineyard provides a scenic tasting for both wine and beer lovers. The Baki family bought these historic grounds back in 2001, started planting vines, and began the dream of creating a winery and vineyard.
In 2018, they added a brewery into the mix as well. With one of their sons as the winemaker and the other as the brewmaster - it's a family affair at Hillsborough!
From the historic (circa 1840s) stone barn tasting and tap room, you'll have awesome views as you taste these delicious wines and craft brews. After your tasting, sit outside on the patio or inside by the window with a bottle of wine to enjoy those spectacular views.
Address: 36716 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro, VA 20132
Breaux Vineyards
Location: Purcellville, VA
Distance from DC: 55 miles
Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 20 min
Breaux Vineyards website
Children Allowed? Yes, certain areas are 21+.
Dog-friendly? Yes, on leash & outdoors only. The Orleans Patio is a no dogs zone.
A family-owned and operated winery in Loudon County, Breaux Vineyards sits on an impressive 404-acre property and has an extensive wine list. Enjoy beautiful vistas of the vineyards and the Blue Ridge Mountains with your wine tasting. Only a short distance from Harper's Ferry in West Virginia, Breaux Vineyards is an excellent addition to a weekend getaway from DC!
Due to its popularity, reservations are required for certain areas of the winery on weekends. However, outdoor seating is first-come, first-serve so it's perfect for a picnic on nice day.
Address: 36888 Breaux Vineyards Lane, Purcellville, VA 20132
Tarara Winery
Location: Leesburg, VA
Distance from DC: 52 miles
Travel Time from DC: ~1 hr 15 min
Tarara Winery website
Children Allowed? Yes.
Dog-friendly? Yes, outside only.
One of the oldest wineries in Loudon County, Tarara Winery produces world class wines using select Virginia grapes. Its 475-acre farm, which sits along the Potomac River in the foothills of the Catoctin Mountains, is a beautiful spot to visit. Particularly in autumn when it's surrounded by vibrant fall colors!
During Saturday evenings in the summer, head to Tarara's Shadow Lake to enjoy the Summer Concert Series. This beautiful live music venue has been rocking with bands from around the country since 1999 and is a great place to kick back on a balmy summer evening.
Address: 13648 Tarara Lane, Leesburg, VA 20176
Final Thoughts
Hopefully you now have a great list of wineries to visit on your next trip to northern Virginia!
Since the wine scene has exploded in Virginia, it seems like more tasting rooms and wineries are opening every year. I recommend keeping up to date with the latest news and find more wineries to visit on the Virginia Wine website.
Other Articles You Might Enjoy
If you're planning a trip to northern Virginia or the DC area, you might also find these articles helpful:
What is your favorite winery in northern Virginia? Share it in the comments below!
Happy travels!
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Visiting a vineyard is such an experience! I especially love the meadows and the greenery around the yard. It’s serene to tranquilize all your senses! Not to mention the wine tasting experience is also quite refreshing. Loved the post. The beautiful win bottles clicked with a lush green backdrop are adorable! Thoughtful clicks!
Thank you so much! Wine tasting in lush green hills is an experience that I miss. It’s always such fun and I’m glad you enjoyed the post.
Sounds like a lovely place to visit some wineries. This is something that would very much interest.
Lovely that the area has great outdoor activities also and hiking sounds like a visit is in order 🤔
Northern Virginia is a great area and I’m glad to have convinced you it’s worth a visit!
Fantastic topic and fantastic guide Becky! Who doesnt love wineries? Did you visited them all? you probably got a good hangover hahaha
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks so much! Yes, I visited all of these wineries and most of the others in Northern Virginia that were open when I lived there. When I researched for this article, I saw many more have opened up since I left though so I’ll have to go back and try those too!
I may have to alter our driving plans just to fit in a winery or two on our road trip this summer. My husband and I spent our honeymoon in Portugal going around to all the wineries and port houses we could manage so we really enjoy traveling for wine. But I do think I will add in the Fox Meadow Winery. Add they allow kids, yeah.
Wine tasting in Portugal is one of my dreams, Leanne! Sounds like adding a visit to a northern Virginia winery on your road trip would be the perfect thing for you and your husband. And hopefully the kids won’t mind too much!
Love this! I also love your criteria for a good winery. I used to live in DC but missed so many of these locations. I’ll be saving this for a return trip.
Thanks, Jen! I’m glad you liked the criteria part. I hope you’ll get back to the DC area to try some of these wineries in NoVA. It’s crazy how many there are now. I already see new ones that I haven’t visited!
I learn about so many new wine regions through blogging. Northern Virginia needs to go on the list as well!
It’s a growing industry in Virginia so I imagine there will be even more wineries to visit soon! Plus, going out for a few tastings is so convenient to add on to a trip to Washington, DC.
I had no idea Northern Virginia had wineries, and so many of them! I’d love to visit the one at Bull Run, basically for the historical connection. Must add such a unique element to the visit, but also, I wonder… in the terroir of the wine too!
It’s amazing how many wineries have opened in northern Virginia – and the entire state – in the past few decades. I read that in the 1990s, Virginia had ~50 wineries and now there are over 300. Quite a booming industry!
Enjoyed reading this post. Just goes to show how little I know about the U.S., but I had no idea they do wine in this area. All my friends think I’m a bit of a twat for not having much of a taste for New World wines, and I can only agree with them. However I’d still love to try a few of these wines and experience the atmosphere at places like The Winery at Bull Run. Blue Ridge Mountains sound like they might be fun for hiking.
Thanks, Stefan! Maybe you just haven’t tried enough New World wines yet? I find it’s best to try as many as possible, though not on the same day! 😉 It’s funny how different people’s tastes are and even winery to winery in northern Virginia, the selection is so different. I’d be curious to hear what you think. And yes, combining wine tasting with hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains is the perfect weekend trip!