If you are looking for the best wine tours near me, and you are in Charlottesville, VA, in the heart of Virginia's picturesque landscape, you have found Blue Ridge Wine Excursions. Here lies a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or simply looking for a delightful day out, Charlottesville, VA, offers an unparalleled wine touring experience. In this blog post, we will explore the captivating world of Blue Ridge Wine Excursions, the premier choice for those seeking the best wine tours near them.

For international wine lovers, the United States offers a plethora of exquisite wine regions to explore, each with its unique charm and character. Among these, the Monticello Wine Trail in Virginia stands out as a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered. Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this wine trail is a testament to the region’s rich history, vibrant culture, and exceptional winemaking tradition. In this blog post, we will embark on a journey through the Monticello Wine Trail, uncovering its unique offerings, must-visit wineries, and the unparalleled experiences that await international tourists.

In the verdant, rolling hills of Central Virginia, the renowned Afton Mountain Vineyards has been a staple in the wine community, producing exceptional vintages for decades. Founded in the late 1970s, the vineyard has seen multiple owners, each bringing their unique touch to the craft of winemaking. The latest chapter in the vineyard’s storied history involves the transition of ownership from Tony and Elizabeth Smith to a new husband-wife duo, Brad and Yelena Dickerson. This significant change marks a new era for Afton Mountain Vineyards and the local wine industry.

Imagine yourself nestled in the heart of Virginia’s lush, rolling hills, surrounded by the picturesque beauty of vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see. The sun is shining, the air is crisp, and you are about to embark on an unforgettable journey through some of the finest wineries on the Monticello Wine Trail. Welcome to the “Elevated Tasting Wine Tour,” brought to you by Blue Ridge Wine Excursions—a premier service crafted for the discerning wine lover.

Nestled in the heart of Central Virginia, the Monticello American Viticultural Area (AVA) is a wine lover's paradise. With its rolling hills, scenic landscapes, and a rich history intertwined with winemaking, it's no wonder that this region has become a must-visit destination for oenophiles and casual wine enthusiasts alike. At Blue Ridge Wine Excursions, we take immense pride in offering exceptional wine tours that highlight the best of the Monticello Wine Trail. As a premier service of Albemarle Limousine and Trail Service, established in 2008, we have been crafting magical experiences for our guests since 2010.

Below are some highlights for the Southern Living piece titled: “Why This College Town Has Captured Everyone's Hearts “

Charlottesville, Virginia may be small in size, but it packs a big punch with its treasure trove of restaurants, scenic Blue Ridge trails, and rich historical sites. Let's take a closer look at what makes Charlottesville a beloved destination.

Often hailed as the cradle of American wine, Charlottesville boasts a rich viticultural legacy dating back to the era of Thomas Jefferson, who called the region home.

"Jefferson envisioned Charlottesville as a hub for grape cultivation, striving to establish Virginia as a contender in the global wine arena," says Brantley Ussery, director of marketing and public relations at Charlottesville Albemarle Convention and Visitors Bureau. However, Jefferson's aspirations were thwarted by unsuccessful grape-growing endeavors, leaving his dream unfulfilled.

In the vineyards of Albemarle County, winemakers are toasting to a season that has unfolded in their favor, and they are eager to let the fruits of their labor speak for themselves.

For those in search of exquisite wine, one particular vineyard in Albemarle County asserts that this year stands out as the finest in recent memory, and they find themselves in the company of like-minded vintners. Will 2023 be the best year for Virginia wine?

Have you heard of the Hollymead House in Charlottesville, VA? If not, you are missing out in a major way. Right now, Hollymead House is celebrating its 50th year! Congratulations to the current owners, William and Pam Calary! Hollymead House is the longest operating Inn in Charlottesville and Albemarle County. The Inn’s vibe is pure casual elegance and features 6 beautiful guest rooms with luxurious amenities to help create a truly memorable stay.

Mariko, our Wine Tour Itinerary Specialist, was able to visit the GORGEOUS, and newest Vineyard near Charlottesville, VA! Located in Keswick, VA, Merrie Mill Farm and Vineyard is stunning; the amount of time designing, and creating, the space and setting is unparalleled. For a full day of “wine touring” visit Keswick Vineyards, Castle Hill Cider, Barboursville Vineyards, and Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards before or after sampling the fine wines of Merrie Mill. We are excited to help you visit, tour, taste, explore, and fully experience Merrie Mill Vineyard on your next Wine Excursion. You can choose to visit Merrie Mill Vineyard on one of our Custom Wine Tours, or one of our All Inclusive Wine Tours.

This Gold Medal Wine Trail points people towards Virginia’s best wines in the state! Let us help you tour our favorite wineries!

Virginia may not be the principal state Americans consider when they consider wine, however for any wine sweetheart willing to look past the West Coast, Virginia wineries have been on the guide for quite a while. What's more, presently, interestingly, that guide is authoritatively coordinated into a helpful path.

Twas the night before your Wine Tour, when all through the house not a creature was stirring, not even a mou... WAIT!

"Oh no- did I need to let the vineyards know I was coming"

"What do I need to pay for on the day of? Is my drivers tip included?"

Whatever stage of planning you are in from receiving a confirmation in your inbox up to the night before your tour. Check out the Top 5 Things To Remember When Planning a Wine Tour. Use this wisdom to keep in your back pocket to prepare for your wine tour in the Charlottesville, Monticello, Crozet, and Blue Ridge area.

Have you been to Glass House Winery? If not, it is time! Let us know if you have any questions about Glass house! We look forward to helping you on your next wine tour. Let’s go taste some wine!

Read more about Glass House Winery Here!

Visiting and Touring and Wine Tasting at a Charlottesville Winery is by far the best way to see all of the beautiful countryside, Blue Ridge Mountains, and taste the terroir.

1. Large Group Wine Tours as well as Small Intimate Tours are always great to best enjoy your wine tour. The safety of having a professional tour company offers a great peace of mind.

2. Wine Touring with a company who has an established track record and expertise and relationships with all of the local wineries is best.

From Early Mountain Vineyards:

“Join us this Sunday, July 28th, to celebrate the release of Blue Bee Petit Manchurian, our collab project with Blue Bee Cidery! Petit Manchurian is a refreshing and fruit driven co-fermented Petit Manchurian Crab Apple and Early Mountain Petit Manseng that’s perfect for summer.

It will be tasted with Blue Bee’s popular Aragon cider as well as their specialty Hewe’s Crab cider. Complimentary tastings will be poured from 12 – 3 pm with a special Cider flight poured throughout the day.”

Listen to Bobby Midnight Band at Glass House Winery on your next Charlottesville Wine Tour!

Learn More About Glass House Winery

6 PM - 9 PM

Saturday, July 13th 
Featuring  
Kendall Street Company 

The local Charlottesville Psychedelic Band

& 
The 2019 UVA Summer Trophy Tour 

Gates open at 5pm
The band plays from 7-11pm

Stay cool this summer, in our brand new Teslas! Our Virginia Wine Tours (which include the central, VA Wine Tours, NOVA Wine Tours, and Richmond pick up and drop off Wine Tours) all feature our new Tesla Tours Model 3 Sedans. The luxury sedans, modern technology, and green footprint, make Teslas a perfect match for our company core values. We look forward to helping you visit our favorite Monticello Wine Trail vineyards while keeping a low carbon footprint.

Our team had a great time helping BuzzFeed visit Charlottesville a couple weeks ago!  Picking up at the stunning Keswick Hall, visiting a plethora of wineries, local eateries, hidden gems, and helping create a wonderful multi-day tour for BuzzFeed was fabulous fun. Can't wait to see you all again next time you are in town!  Thanks and cheers!