Top Wineries in Charlottesville, VA

A few weeks ago I visited my friend Alicia and her boyfriend Tom in Charlottesville, VA. We had a great time eating our way through town and they also took me winery hopping. Virginia Wine Country is so beautiful and they have some pretty amazing wines. I visited on the perfect weekend since the leaves had just turned and there was the most beautiful fall foliage.

Today I’m sharing my favorite wineries in Charlottesville, VA. Get ready to drink some good wine and enjoy the gorgeous views!

The Best Wineries in Charlottesville, VA

Gabriele Rausse

I fell in love with this beautiful winery and the property it’s located. You can find this cozy house in the woods with floor-to-ceiling windows. They also had a friendly, adorable pup outside to greet you! They’re only open for tastings three days a week; Thursday 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Friday 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., and Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.. While you’re there take advantage of the food and wine pairings – YUM!

Early Mountain Winery

When I’m in Charlottesville I always go to Early Mountain Winery. They have a beautiful tasting room and outdoor space. I could sit there and sip wine for hours! Their Cabernet Franc and Rosé are superb and worth getting a bottle to take home. On weekends, reservations are recommended and available for Tasting Room, Patio, and Back Lawn seating. RESERVE HERE.

Mount Ida Farm

This was the perfect place to escape from the rain and cozy up next to a huge stone fireplace. Mount Ida has the most beautiful grounds, and I love any place that has big fireplaces and couches to relax in. The wine flight and snacks were really yummy too! Their winter hours are Monday – Thursday: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., bar + weekday snack menu and Friday – Sunday: 11:00 a.m.– 6:00 p.m., bar + kitchen offerings

Stinson Vineyards

One of the best reds of my wine tour was at Stinson Vineyards. Their wines have a French influence and the staff was so friendly and knowledgeable. The view also was perfection. Look at that fall foliage! Tasting Room hours are Thursday through Sunday for outdoor seating. Check more of their hours here and make a reservation to stop by!

King Family Winery

Definitely, the busiest winery we visited (it was a Saturday), King had a killer view of the polo field and was dog-friendly! Reservations are not required to visit and guests are welcome anytime during business hours to enjoy wine tasting flights or wine by the glass or bottle. All of the indoor and outdoor seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. I would also bring a blanket and picnic lunch, the lawn is perfect for it!

Afton Mountain Vineyards

Another gorgeous property was Afton, you can stay there and enjoy their amazing wines. This property was busy on a Saturday but not as busy as King’s. We grabbed sandwiches and snacks on our way there and enjoyed lunch with our wine! They’re currently open Thursday – Sunday from 11 a.m. -5 p.m. The patio, lawn, and Pavilion are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Masks will be required to be worn any time you are not seated at your table. No parties of more than 6, please.

All photos by Tom McGovern

Have you ever been to Charlottesville? What are your favorite wineries in the area? Share with me in a comment below!

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