May 27, 2020

Virginia’s rich history and culture have produced some of the most iconic vineyards and wineries of the eastern United States. If you’re looking for an adventure through Virginia’s wine country, there are quite a few options near Sterling. Here are a few of our favorites:

1. Stone Tower Winery

Leesburg’s Stone Tower Winery is one of the most popular vintners in the area, and for good reason. Their delicately crafted wines are just a part of the experience you’ll find at this winery. Focus your visit on Harvest Barn’s five tasting rooms surrounded by beautiful decor or sweeping fields of vines or take advantage of the specialty tours and tastings to get an insight into the wine-making process. Either path you take, you’ll find it easy to immerse yourself into the world of wine at Stone Tower Winery.

Their wines are made under two names: Wild Boar Cellars and Stone Tower Estate Wines. Between the two, you have access to a great many varietals, including merlot, petit verdot, and pinot noir for your reds and brut rose and Chardonnay for your blushes and whites. Hunt for your perfect glass of wine, or sample each to make for the perfect winery experience.

2. Fleetwood Farm Winery

Since 1745, Fleetwood Farm Winery has been producing some of the area’s finest wines. They’re also located in Leesburg, but well worth the drive. Picturesque against a backdrop of Virginia woods, this winery is a great escape from the din of the city.

The historic manor that stands proudly in the winery grounds speaks to the history of the people in the area, and the wines inside speak of the earth’s history. Taste the fruits of Virginia’s soil through Fleetwood’s cabernet sauvignon, pinot blanc, riesling, petit verdot, and more. Pair a bottle of your favorite with a charcuterie and cheese board for a full sensory experience.

3. Casanel Vineyards & Winery

Casanel Vineyards & Winery utilizes their terroir to produce unique wines with beautiful notes. They offer some of the most affordable tasting experiences in the area, and their quaintly charming vaulted-ceiling tasting room offers fantastic views of the Virginia countryside. Casanel is fairly new to the wine world, with its first bottling taking place in the summer of 2015, but they’ve quickly grown into a favorite destination for locals and area visitors alike.

Their current red vintages include their K2 red blend, cabernet sauvignon, petit verdot, a port-style Norton, and a carménère. If you prefer whites and blushes, try their blanc de blancs White Spark, Chardonnay, or Jose Rose. Each of their hand-bottled wines embodies the richest tastes Virginia’s soil offers. If you’re looking for a smaller winery to explore, Casanel is one of our top suggestions.

Whether you have a sommelier’s knowledge of wine or you simply know what you like when you taste it, these wineries and vineyards offer all visitors pleasant and soulful experiences. Start your Virginia wine country exploration at these beautiful destinations and then spread your search to find your perfect bottle of wine.