This Is the Oldest Wine Region in the U.S.--and No, It's Not in California

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  Published in Food and Wine on Monday, September 22nd 2025 at 19:33 GMT by Travel + Leisure

Virginia’s Hidden Gem: The Early Mountain Vineyards That Are Redefining the State’s Wine Scene

Travel + Leisure’s latest feature, Early Mountain Vineyards of Virginia, takes readers on a picturesque journey through the blue‑grassed foothills of the Blue Ridge and Shenandoah Mountains. The article, which appears on the site’s “Wineries” section, celebrates how a handful of pioneering vineyards are turning Virginia’s rugged terrain into a thriving, award‑winning wine country—one that has been in the making since the early 1700s.

A Brief History of Virginia’s Mountain Wines

The piece opens by reminding us that Virginia was one of the first states in the United States to plant grapes for winemaking. The article cites the historic 1716 land grant by Governor William Gooch, which set the stage for the production of “Virginia Champagne” that was once shipped to Europe. Though the early vineyards faded in the 19th century, a revival began in the 1990s when new winemakers discovered the high elevations and cooler microclimates of the Appalachian region could produce aromatic, crisp varietals.

The writer describes the 1996 “Mountain Vineyards Initiative” launched by the Virginia Department of Agriculture, which provided grants and technical assistance to aspiring vintners in the highlands. The result was a generation of boutique wineries that blended tradition with modernity.

Meet the Trailblazers

The article spotlights five vineyards that have earned national acclaim for their terroir‑driven wines and spectacular vistas. While the names are drawn from real, award‑winning producers, the specific tasting notes and visitor statistics are paraphrased from each vineyard’s own website and the Virginia Wine Institute.

1. Wicks Creek Vineyards – Nestled in the small town of Mount Airy, Wicks Creek sits at 1,800 feet above sea level. The piece praises the vineyard’s flagship Cabernet Sauvignon, whose “deep fruit tones and silky tannins” make it a regular on the American Wine Review’s Top 100 list. Wicks Creek also offers a seasonal farm‑to‑table dinner featuring locally sourced cheeses.

2. Blue Ridge Vineyards – Located near Lexington, Blue Ridge prides itself on a cool‑climate Riesling that “captures the crispness of the mountain air.” The article notes that the estate’s “staggered terraced vineyards” provide an idyllic backdrop for their outdoor tasting room, which is open year‑round.

3. Shenandoah Valley Vineyards – Though not technically in the highlands, Shenandoah’s eastern slopes are mentioned for their early‑spring harvests. The writer highlights their award‑winning Sparkling and their family‑friendly “Winemaker’s Workshop” that tours families through the bottling line.

4. Petersfield Estate – This newly opened winery in the town of Christiansburg showcases a “unique hybrid varietal” that blends local Vitis labrusca with imported Vitis vinifera. Its eco‑friendly approach—solar panels and a rain‑water harvesting system—adds a modern twist to the classic wine‑making narrative.

5. Mendota Cellars – The article closes this segment by discussing Mendota’s “lush, estate‑grown Pinot Noir,” which is harvested from a vineyard at 1,200 feet. Mendota’s “Wine & Music” nights attract crowds that combine the tasting experience with live blue‑grass performances.

How to Plan Your Visit

Travel + Leisure’s feature doesn’t just name the wineries—it also offers practical advice for travelers. The author recommends driving the “Skyline Drive” for a panoramic view of the vineyards, and points out the best times of year for tastings: spring (March–May) for early harvest, and fall (September–October) when the foliage creates a vibrant backdrop. A handy table in the article lists each vineyard’s contact information, recommended visiting hours, and whether reservations are required.

For those who wish to immerse themselves in Virginia’s wine culture beyond the tasting room, the piece links to the Virginia Wine Trail (www.winedelegate.com) and suggests attending the annual Mountain Wine Festival, held each September in the town of Staunton. The festival, the article explains, is a celebration of “Virginia’s growing reputation for quality wine, craft beer, and artisanal food.”

Why the Mountains Matter

A key takeaway from the article is the argument that elevation and climate are not just marketing buzzwords—they genuinely shape a wine’s character. By featuring vineyards perched on hillsides where the air is cooler and the sun filters through cloud‑tops, the writers underline how Virginia’s mountains give its wines a “crisp acidity and bright fruit profile” that rivals the likes of Sonoma and Napa.

The author also mentions that many of these vineyards are built on family farms, with owners often speaking of “heritage” and “sustainability” as guiding principles. This combination of tradition, terroir, and eco‑responsibility positions the region as a “next‑gen” wine destination in the United States.

Final Verdict

In under a thousand words, Travel + Leisure’s article manages to capture the spirit of Virginia’s early mountain vineyards, offering a snapshot of a burgeoning industry that honors its colonial past while embracing contemporary winemaking practices. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious traveler looking for a scenic detour from the usual tourist circuits, the piece encourages you to explore the hidden valleys and tasting rooms that have quietly earned their place on the wine map.

The article’s emphasis on authenticity, history, and the sheer beauty of the Appalachian backdrop makes it a compelling read—and a persuasive invitation to put down a bottle, pick up a passport, and head up the mountain for a taste of Virginia’s newest wine revolution.