Just a stone’s throw away from Washington D.C. sits Virginia’s Wine Country. Nestled within the Blue Ridge Mountains, these vineyards and wineries not only offer wine that’s sure to please, they also have the views to top it.
While staying in Harpers Ferry, most people are eager to explore the fantastic hiking trails, fun tubing opportunities, or to go back in time with the area’s incredible history. What sometimes gets overlooked is the vibrant wine region just next door.
Just over the border and a ten minute drive from Harpers Ferry, Loudoun County is known for its bustling scene of vineyards, wineries, and breweries, making it easy to do a day tour of multiple locations. Get the most from your experience by booking transportation to and from your vacation rental so you can sit back and enjoy a day of sipping vino with the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the backdrop.
To get you ready to enjoy the best of the Loudoun County Wine Trail, here’s what you need to know before you go!
Loudoun County Wine
History of Virginia’s Wine Country
Wine has been produced in Northern Virginia since Europeans first colonized the country in the 17th century. During the early days of Jamestown, it was a requirement that all males tended to grapevines and attempted winemaking.
However, the colonists and their European grapevines struggled with the heat and humidity of Virginia, which led to parasites and diseased vines. Thomas Jefferson himself attempted to establish vineyards in the area but was also unsuccessful.
Although a Virginia wine made from native grapes won “Best Red Wine of All Nations” at the 1873 Vienna World’s Fair, prohibition put a stop to any further growth in the area. It wasn’t until the 1950’s that winemakers again attempted to produce Virginia wine. We’re so happy they did since it has been a huge success!
DC Wine Country
Today, Loudoun County, Virginia, is home to over 50 vineyards and is part of what is known as the DC Wine Country. The DC Wine Country is made up of six clusters:
- Loudoun Heights cluster
- Waterford cluster
- Harmony cluster
- Middleburg cluster
- Potomac cluster
- Snickers Gap cluster
The most common grape varietals in the area include:
- Chardonnay
- Viognier
- Cabernet Franc
- Petit Verdot
- Norton Grape
- Merlot
- Petit Manseng
These grapes produce delicious and well-awarded reds, whites, roses, and sparkling wines.
Just across the border from Harpers Ferry, it is easy to visit Loudoun County to tour some of the incredible vineyards. Nearly all are open to the public and offer wine tastings and flights of their spectacular vinos. Plus, they all really know how to put together the perfect wine pairing.
Vineyards & Wineries of Loudoun County
The Loudoun Heights cluster of DC’s Wine Country is the closest to Harpers Ferry, making it the perfect choice for those staying with Mountain Mama. It is possible to visit several wineries in one day, each offering unique flavors, views, and experiences.
Here are our favorite Virginia wineries that you won’t want to miss.
Hillsborough Winery, Brewery, and Vineyard
Address: 36716 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro, VA 20132
The Hillsborough Winery, Brewery, and Vineyard is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a wide variety of beverages. Producing complex, unique wines from proven grapes as well as brewing their own beers, Hillsborough has something for everyone.
With amazing views of the Blue Ridge foothills, an assortment of foods, and the option to book a guided tasting, a day here is certainly a day well spent. This is one of the best options for a group to enjoy thanks to the wide variety of drinks offered.
Hillsborough Winery, Brewery, and Vineyard is open daily from 11am-6pm.
868 Estate Vineyards
Address: 14001 Harpers Ferry Rd, Purcellville, VA 20132
Just south of Harpers Ferry in Northern Virginia is the beloved 868 Estate Vineyards. This vineyard boasts award-winning wine, a stunning view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and a beautiful 120-acre property with over 39,000 grape vines.
868 Estate Vineyards is a wonderful stop for those exploring the DC Wine Country. Keep in mind that they only offer a snack menu on weekdays but do have casual meals on weekends.
Children are welcome at 868 Estate Vineyards and well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas. This farm winery really is a lot of fun for the entire family!
Bozzo Family Vineyards
Address: 35226 Charles Town Pike, Purcellville, VA 20132
Bozzo Family Vineyards is known for its passion for high-quality wine and produces award-winning whites, reds, and roses. With a great mountain view, lovely wines, and tasty foods, a visit to Bozzo Family Vineyards is well worth it.
Keep in mind that Bozzo Family Vineyards is relatively small, especially its interior so it might not be the best to bring a large group of people. Instead, stop in with just your significant other or small family if the weather calls for inside drinking.
Bozzo Family Vineyards is open Thursday through Sunday but may be available by appointment on other days. Children and animals are welcome at the vineyard.
Breaux Vineyards
Address: 36888 Breaux Vineyards Ln, Purcellville, VA 20132
One of the best-known vineyards in Loudoun County, Breaux Vineyards is a must-see for travelers who love good wine and good views. Situated on a hillside looking over the Blue Ridge Mountains, the 400-acre estate has 17 grape varieties and produces incredible red, white, rose, and sparkling wines.
The vineyard is also a wedding venue, and is truly a magical location for wine lovers to tie the knot!
Breaux Vineyards is open daily from 11am-6pm. Reservations are needed for indoor seating for groups larger than 8 and for outdoor seating for groups larger than 10.
Crushed Cellars
Address: 37938 Charles Town Pike, Purcellville, VA 20132
Producing high-quality wines and offering a beautiful location, Crushed Cellars is a wonderful addition to the list of Loudoun County wineries. While you’re visiting, be sure to try the special blackberry dessert wine, which won the Gold Award at the San Francisco International Wine competition.
Crushed Cellars is open on weekends from 12-5 and has indoor and outdoor seating available, no reservations required.
Doukenie Winery
Address: 14727 Mountain Rd, Hillsboro, VA 20132
Nestled in the peaceful mountains of Hillsboro, Virginia, the Doukenie Winery has 12 varieties of European and hybrid grapes and produces high-quality wines. Enjoy a relaxing tasting with table-side service and yummy snacks.
There is also a pond on-site which allows fishing, so feel free to bring your fishing rod if you’re craving a peaceful day on the water with one of Virginia’s best wines in your hand.
Doukenie Winery is open Tuesday-Sunday. Reservations are not required but are recommended on weekends and holidays. Make reservations easily through their online reservation system.
Forever Farm & Vineyard
Address: 15779 Woodgrove Rd, Purcellville, VA 20132
Enjoy a picnic with wine when you visit Forever Farm & Vineyard! This family-friendly, pet-friendly, and inclusive vineyard is community oriented and allows guests to have a peaceful experience in the mountains of Purcellville.
Their special blends create smooth, easy-drinking wines that all will enjoy. Plus, the well-versed staff should be able to recommend what to pair your picnic meal with.
Forever Farm & Vineyard is open May-September on Saturdays from 12-6 and occasionally Fridays and Sundays during the busy season.
Hiddencroft Vineyards
Address: 12202 Axline Rd, Lovettsville, VA 20180
Enjoy rustic charm and delicious wine on the 26-acre former farmstead at Hiddencroft Vineyards. The 1860s farmhouse serves as the tasting room and has a large patio for additional outdoor seating.
The flower gardens are particularly special here, with The Butterfly Haven garden being designated as a Registered Monarch Waystation.
Hiddencroft Vineyards is open Friday-Sunday from 11am-6pm.
Kalero Vineyard
Address: 36140 Charles Town Pike, Purcellville, VA 20132
Located in western Loudoun County, Kalero Vineyard is a gorgeous 130-acre farm, vineyard, and wedding venue offering private tastings. The 14-acre vineyard is planted with six varietals, from which three wines have recently been produced.
You’ll enjoy incredible views as you sip on the tasty wines and explore the historical buildings on site.
Kalero Vineyard offers monthly tastings open to the public, and some private tastings are available upon request.
Maggie Malick Wine Caves
Address: 12138 Harpers Ferry Rd, Purcellville, VA 20132
Maggie Malick Wine Caves is a female-owned boutique winery offering delicious, award-winning wines in a beautiful setting. Pair these spectacular wines with your own picnic or purchase some of the tasty snacks on-site.
The winery is particularly dog-friendly, even hosting dog events throughout the year. If you travel with your dog, you both will have a fun day out at Maggie Malick.
Maggie Malick Wine Caves is open Thursday-Monday from 11am-6pm.
Notaviva Farm Brewery and Winery
Address: 13274 Sagle Rd, Purcellville, VA 20132
Get the best of both worlds with Notaviva Farm Brewery and Winery, offering fantastic handcrafted beers, wines, seltzers, and ciders. One of the most unique things about Notaviva is its beverage presentation; each drink is paired with a musical genre or lyrical inspiration. They even offer live music from time to time.
Notaviva is also one of the closest wineries to Harpers Ferry, making it easy to visit even if you are short on time.
Notaviva Farm Brewery and Winery is open Saturdays and Sundays, and all visitors must be 21+.
Two Twisted Posts Winery
Address: 12944 Harpers Ferry Rd, Purcellville, VA 20132
Two Twisted Posts Winery is family owned and operated and puts a major emphasis on producing the highest quality grapes with eco-friendly farming. The resulting wine is spectacular and has won awards since the first year of production in 2011. Be sure to visit the beautiful farm and taste these award-winning wines yourself!
Two Twisted Posts Winery is open Thursday-Sunday from 11am-6pm.
Walsh Family Wine
Address: 16031 Hillsboro Rd, Purcellville, VA 20132
Founded in 2014, Walsh Family Wine has made a name for itself by producing high-quality, elegant wines that are a great ambassador for the Virginia wine industry. Purchase a tasting flight when you visit to try a selection of four of their best wines. Snacks are available for purchase, or you can bring your own.
Walsh Family Wine is open daily from noon to 6pm, and until 8pm on Fridays. Children and dogs are welcome.
How to Get There
Transportation to the Loudoun County vineyards is easy with the Elite Excursions WV transport service. Since you will be trying all the incredible wines at each vineyard, driving yourself is not recommended.
Elite Excursions WV will pick you up from your Harpers Ferry vacation rental and transfer you safely and comfortably to the vineyards of Loudoun County.
Choose from one of their organized 4 or 6-hour tours for a great taste of some of the most popular vineyards, or create your own custom tour if there are specific locations you would like to visit.
What to Bring
Picnic Supplies
If you are planning to have a picnic along with your wine, there are a few things you’ll want to remember. First, you will need your meal! Snacks like crackers, cheeses, and fruits pair well with wine and keep you full so that the alcohol doesn’t get the best of you.
In addition to the food, bringing a blanket or sheet to lay on the ground or picnic table will make your picnic more comfortable.
Sun Protection
No matter the season, spending a day at a sunny vineyard means you need to protect yourself from the sun! Be sure to wear sunglasses and apply sunscreen before you go, and bring it with you so you can reapply occasionally.
Stain Remover
Spills happen! When you are spending a day trying dozens of red wines, there is a good chance you might have a small spill on your clothes. Bringing a travel-sized stain remover, such as a Tide To-Go pen, is a great way to tackle tough stains.
Comfortable Clothes
You certainly will want to look nice for your winery tour, but remember that you may be spending your day outdoors and at benches, picnic tables, or even in the grass as you enjoy a picnic. Choose clothes that offer protection from the elements and will be comfortable enough not to distract you from the experience.
Camera
Don’t forget to bring your to capture the memories from your day at the winery! A disposable or polaroid camera is an extra special way to get pictures of this special experience, giving you a tangible keepsake of your time visiting Loudoun County’s best wineries.
Enjoy Loudoun County’s Wine Trail
Take your Harpers Ferry vacation to the next level by taking a tour of some of Loudoun County’s best vineyards. Producing delicious, award-winning wines and offering amazing backdrops in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a day visiting Loudoun County vineyards is a day well spent.
