Living in Virginia means access to impressive locally-grown products. If you’re a wine enthusiast, you’ll be thrilled to hear that the Piedmont Region of Virginia was recently listed among the top wine destinations in the world for 2020. Factors that went into the list include underrated destinations with plenty to offer. It’s no surprise then that the Monticello Wine Trail topped the list, given its array of impressive wineries and breathtaking landscape. So whether you’re a fan of wine or simply curious to learn more about Virginia’s wine-growing history, you’ll want to plan a visit to this iconic region sometime soon.
The Monticello Wine Trail, located in Virginia’s verdant Piedmont Region, has an impressive place in Virginia’s winemaking history.
Early Mountain Vineyards / Facebook
The history of the wine trail originates with Thomas Jefferson himself, who dreamed of vineyards surrounding Monticello that could produce some of the best wine the region had to offer.
Barboursville Vineyards / Facebook
Jefferson’s goal of growing world-class wine was ultimately successful, although there were a few stumbles in his plan.
Veritas Vineyards and Winery / Facebook Factors such as the American Revolution and disease-carrying insects thwarted the initial successes of growing wine grapes in Virginia.
Thankfully, plans progressed in 1835 with the help of Dr. D.N. Norton, who was able to create a domestic grape that wouldn’t be susceptible to disease.
Early Mountain Vineyards / Facebook
The rest, as they say, is history. Charlottesville became known as the Capital of the Virginia Wine Belt and wines from this region were recognized around the world.
Veritas Vineyards and Winery / Facebook
Today, the Monticello Wine Trail is a community of dedicated wine-growers, vineyards, and tasting rooms that showcase the best of the region. The wine that you’ll sample at any of these locations is the product of centuries of evolution, with influence drawn from around the world.
Monticello Wine Trail / Facebook
The 35 wineries located along the Monticello Wine Trail are all within a short drive of Charlottesville.
Jefferson Vineyards / Facebook When you visit, you’ll not only enjoy impressive wines but the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain landscape that has inspired generations of grape-growers, artists, farmers, and residents.
Have you recently visited any wineries along the Monticello Wine Trail? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience! For more information about the trail, you can check out the visitor’s guide by clicking here.
Early Mountain Vineyards / Facebook
Barboursville Vineyards / Facebook
Veritas Vineyards and Winery / Facebook
Factors such as the American Revolution and disease-carrying insects thwarted the initial successes of growing wine grapes in Virginia.
Monticello Wine Trail / Facebook
Jefferson Vineyards / Facebook
When you visit, you’ll not only enjoy impressive wines but the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain landscape that has inspired generations of grape-growers, artists, farmers, and residents.
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