Trilogy is taking root in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, where the views are breathtaking and the wine is plentiful. Nearly half of the Commonwealth’s close to 250 registered wineries are in Northern Virginia and just a short drive from the Trilogy at Lake Frederick community, giving Lake Frederick home buyers plenty of opportunity to swirl, sip and taste The Good Life.
Unlike many winemaking states, Virginia experiences the natural beauty of four distinct seasons and many wineries are open year round. This enhances the tasting experience as taking in Virginia’s views and natural landscapes is almost equal to the euphoria experienced while imbibing the delicious wines. Patrons may enjoy a full-bodied, complex red, cozied up fireside while overlooking the snow-covered Blue Ridge Mountains in winter, just as they can indulge in a crisp, fruity white on a perfect summer picnic.
For those new to the area, don’t forget to mark your calendars for a number of winery weekends in the fall. It is without a doubt the most scenic, gorgeous time of year with ideal weather forecasts and the leaves of the tree-covered region changing to brilliant yellows, oranges, greens and reds. It’s a must see … and sip.
Today, we’ll focus on three local favorites.
Bluemont Vineyard
Bluemont, Virginia
Boasting one of the highest elevations in the area, Bluemont Vineyard not only offers spectacular wines, but the experience comes with arguably the best view around. With an expansive deck and patio, wine tasters can sit, sip and socialize for hours on end overlooking the Virginia foothills. Bluemont is also associated with Great Country Farms, a “u-pick” fruit and vegetable farm, located just across the street.
Known for it’s table wines, both red and white, as well as it’s unique peach wine, Bluemont also offers an incredible menu of cheeses, jellies and jams. Be sure to try the tapenade sampler!
Naked Mountain Winery & Vineyards
Markham, Virginia
As the name would imply, Naked Mountain Winery & Vineyards is all about a laid-back, low-key, casual style. With friendly and knowledgeable staff and fantastic outdoor seating opportunities (hello, picnic tables and Adirondack chairs), this winery offers a generous flight of wines.
With a slight slant towards white wines, patrons will enjoy cleverly named wines like the “Birthday Suit,” the “Skinny Dipper,” and the “Make Me Blush.” Also, worthy of note, the chardonnay from this mountainside retreat in the Blue Ridge has been served by the White House at two state dinners, under President George H.W. Bush and President Bill Clinton. So you know it MUST be good.
We also hear the crab dip is divine.
Barrel Oak Winery
Delaplane, Virginia
Bring your friends. Bring your grandkids. Bring your dogs. Yes, your dogs. Barrel Oak Winery, or “BOW” as they often call themselves, is conveniently located just off I-66. But trust us, when you’re there, you’ll feel like you are miles and miles away. It’s an energetic, lively place with children and dogs running wild and ready to make new friends. With plenty of indoor/outdoor seating, Barrel Oak is one of those great year-round wineries with firepits strategically placed throughout for a cold winter day or a chilly spring night.
BOW has two tasting menus—the “BOW” and the “WOW”—with the WOW featuring their bigger, bolder reds. The 10 wines in their flight strike a great balance of white and red. Their 2008 Petit Verdot won top prize at the Virginia State Fair and went on to win gold at the San Francisco International Wine Competition. To get your tail really waggin’, be sure to join them on a weekend, when they often have live music! Oh and we mustn’t forget the sangria bar.
We invite you to come experience what life could be like in Virginia’s wine country by visiting us at Trilogy at Lake Frederick or subscribe to our free newsletter online. For a complete list of Virginia wineries and more detail on those highlighted above, visit Virginia Wine. Hope to sip and see you soon. Cheers!