Harvest weekends: Exploring wineries and fall festivals across Central Virginia
There’s no better way to understand the charm of Central Virginia than through its fall weekends. The region’s rolling hills and vibrant vineyards create a backdrop for experiences that feel both timeless and local, from its harvest festivals to its local markets.
Here’s your guide to making the most of fall in Virginia’s wine country:
WINERIES
Central Virginia’s wine country is full of charm and craftsmanship, and these five wineries showcase the best of it.
- Barboursville Vineyards
Barboursville, Orange County
🍇 Known for its bold reds (especially the award-winning Octagon), Barboursville captures the essence of Virginia winemaking, which is all about heritage, innovation, and a deep respect for the land.
- King Family Vineyards
Crozet, Albemarle County
🍇 Set against the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, this family-owned estate near Charlottesville is celebrated for its approachable yet sophisticated wines like the meritage and viognier.
- Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards
North Garden, Albemarle County
🍇 Just minutes from Charlottesville, this boutique winery feels like a luxurious countryside escape. The property’s architecture and gardens create a serene setting for tastings, while its kitchen serves seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
- Veritas Vineyard & Winery
Afton, Albemarle and Nelson counties
🍇 Family-owned and nestled in the heart of Afton, Veritas Vineyard & Winery offers a diverse lineup of expressive, European-style wines that showcase the richness of Virginia’s terroir. Guests can enjoy elegant viognier, crisp sauvignon blanc, and full-bodied reds like claret and cabernet franc.
- Early Mountain Vineyards
Madison, Madison County
🍇 This Madison winery showcases the best of Virginia viticulture, not just its own wines but selections from across the state. Early Mountain’s estate portfolio features beautifully balanced reds and crisp whites, including a silky cabernet franc, elegant chardonnay, and their signature Eluvium red blend.
FALL FESTIVALS
Whether you’re strolling through a farmers market or sipping a vintage at a vineyard, fall festivals in Central Virginia give you plenty of things to do each time:
- Powhatan’s Festival of the Grape
Powhatan, Powhatan County
🍷 With the charming Historic Courthouse District as its backdrop, this event brings together more than 30 Virginia wineries such as Brooks Mill Winery, Rassawek, and Mattaponi. Each offers tastings that capture the state’s unique terroir, along with food trucks, local artisans, and live bands.
- Virginia Garlic & Wine Festival
Amherst, Amherst County
🧄 While it might sound like an unlikely pairing, garlic and wine make for one unforgettable weekend. Held at Rebec Vineyards, the Virginia Garlic & Wine Festival has become a local legend. You’ll find everything from garlicky gourmet dishes to award-winning Virginia wines, with nine wineries on hand and over 150 craft vendors.
- Fall Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival
Lynchburg
🍷 The Fall Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival invites guests to sample vintages from more than 15 Virginia wineries while strolling the historic grounds of Poplar Forest, Jefferson’s private retreat. Guests can sip award-winning wines from across the state, from bold reds to crisp whites and delicate rosés, while enjoying live music, artisan vendors, and gourmet food pairings.
- Goochland County Fall Festival
Goochland, Goochland County
🍁 Held at the Goochland Sports Complex, this well-loved autumn tradition in Central Virginia features live music, food trucks, local vendors, and plenty of kid-friendly attractions. Visitors can enjoy pumpkin decorating, a costume contest, and hands-on activities that capture the essence of small-town Virginia in the fall.
FIND YOUR NEXT HOME IN HEART OF VIRGINIA
From the rolling vineyards of Afton to the lively markets of Goochland, Central Virginia in the fall is nothing short of magical.
Ready to plan your next adventure? Explore your real estate options with the people who know Central Virginia best. Connect with The Poore Team to discover the communities, properties, and local gems that make this region an incredible place to call home.
Reach out to the team by calling 804.567.9250 or send them a message. You can also visit ThePooreTeam.com to learn more.