The Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail
“Wine is constant proof that God loves us and loves to see us happy.” –Benjamin Franklin
Did you know that Virginia wine made Forbes’ Magazine’s list of “Six Exciting Wine Regions to Explore” in 2014? We’re pretty proud of the high quality (and tasty!) wines that our Commonwealth is producing and distributing, and whether you’re an experienced wine connoisseur or you’re a casual taster, we think you’ll love Virginia wine. Furthermore, not only can you sample the vino for yourself during a Shenandoah Valley visit, but you can also tour some of the nearby vineyards and wineries that are part of the Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail.
Try Ox-Eye Vineyards’ Chardonnay with its “tropical notes of banana, pineapple and citrus” or CrossKeys Vineyards’ Meritage a “classic Bordeaux Blend comprised of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Merlot.” Savor Rockbridge Vineyard’s 2013 Rockbridge Chardonnay, which won silver at the 2014 Virginia Governor’s Cup. Taste Valerie Hill Winery’s 2013 Cabernet Franc, which boasts “Hints of vanilla and tobacco” and “flavors of dark cherry, ripe dark berries, currants, and a touch of cinnamon.” Click here for a full list of the vineyards and wineries that comprise the Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail.
Need lodging during your wine-themed getaway? Our member inns are at your service.
Visit the 29th Annual Virginia Wine and Craft Festival in Front Royal, Virginia
Every year, spring is accompanied by a huge variety of outdoor festivals with everything from live music to historic gardens to wine tasting. Speaking of wine tasting, there’s one upcoming festival in Front Royal, Virginia that will be offering its patrons a change to taste some Virginia vintages and peruse the wares of talented craft vendors. Now in its 29th year, the Annual Virginia Wine and Craft Festival is set for Saturday May 16, 2015, starting at 10 a.m. and ending at 6 p.m.: “Covering more than 7 seven blocks and featuring over 100 vendors, artists and crafters from all over the east coast, there won’t be anything you can’t find to fit your style, mood or need… Fine handmade jewelry, hand painted wine glasses, hand crafted musical instruments, pottery and ceramics, clothing, original paintings and artwork, antiques, the list goes on.”
But if you think that wine and crafts are the only festival offerings, then you’ll be delighted to hear about all of the food! Feast on funnel cakes, crabcake sandwiches, burgers, hotdogs, shish kabobs and more. Between the food and the wine tasting, you’ll certainly be full and satisfied at the Virginia Wine and Craft Festival.
Quick Facts:
Where: E Main St, Front Royal, Warren, Virginia 22630
When: May 16, 2015, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Tickets: Free general admission. $25 in advance and $30 at the gate for wine tasters.
Lodging: A Shenandoah Valley B&B!