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Winter Wine Escape to Orange County, Virginia

Yes, it’s cold outside. But while the vines at Orange County’s wineries have gone dormant for the winter, the wines will keep you warm and cozy making this a wonderful time for a wine excursion. Our Vineyards are ready for you to come explore their properties and relax in the fresh air of the award winning Central Virginia wine country. 

Photo Credit: Honah Lee Vineyard
Photo Credit: Honah Lee Vineyard Facebook

 

Horton Vineyards: Gordonsville, VA

Down the road completely unexpected, Horton Vineyards looks like a castle from another time and place. Horton is offering self guided tastings, glass and bottle sales, cozy green houses for outdoor seating and unique virtual tasting experiences with the Horton family.  Curbside and online ordering. Open Daily 10 am – 5 pm.

Horton bottles a delicious and attractive Nebbiolo Rosé in the winter, which pairs perfectly with a spicy dish, or with something Asian-inspired. Their Malbec (2016)  soft in tannins and lower in acidity with strong raspberry fruit and herbal aromas pairs well with earthy flavors mushroom medley, roasted beet salad, bacon cheese burger or duck comfit. Do not miss the award winning Horton Cabernet Franc (2016). It is a bit of spicy oak for your glass. Smooth, dark plum flavors melt into a black pepper finish and pairs with grilled Portobello mushroom burger, porterhouse steak, thick rib eye or chocolate goats cheese topped with fresh raspberries.

 

Photo Credit: Reynard Florence Facebook
Photo Credit: Reynard Florence Facebook

Barboursville Vineyards: Barboursville, VA

No visit to Orange County would be complete without a stop at Barboursville Vineyards, a gorgeous 18th-century estate that offers a tasting fee of $15 which includes a choice of six one ounce pour among sixteen wines self-dispensed by automated Winestations at ideal temperature in fine crystal stemware, including a variety of excellent winter wines.

Now, a section of BBV original winery building, overlooking an expansive slope of Cabernet Franc at its door and the Blue Ridge beyond, has been remodeled for comfort and contemplative tastings throughout the year. In the Library, selected vintages are offered with culinary pairings and a tasty menu to complement any tasting at BBV.

Mark your calendar as Eli Nichols, of Oyster Catcher Sea Farms,  will be shucking his “Revival” oysters for you January 17th, February 21st & March 21st

If you’re in the mood for fine dining, visit the on-site Palladio Restaurant where the sommelier will be happy to help match the seasonal dishes with the best wines Barboursville has to offer. If you’d rather just take a bottle of wine to go, you can always count on their famous Octagon blend, a red wine with a highly distinctive character.

 

 

Photo Credit: Chateau Merrillanne Vineyard
Photo Credit: Chateau Merrillanne Vineyard

So be sure to experience the unique charms of winery hopping in the winter. Don’t let the cold keep you out of Orange County’s fabulous vineyards! See all of our wineries and breweries in Orange County on our SIP Page 

Make a long weekend out of your winter wine adventure. Find a cozy spot to call home for getaway.  We have a variety of options for every type of stay. Private cottages, vineyard Inns, and historic estates with top notch hospitality are just the beginning. Check out our award winning Inns, Resorts, and Bed and Breakfasts on our STAY page