Discover What's Hot in Washington D.C's Wine Country- Loudoun, VA
- Written by Jennifer Buske-Sigal
Boasting a well-respected agricultural tradition and rolling hills laced with vineyards, Loudoun, Virginia has emerged as the premier East Coast wine region, just 25 miles outside of the nation's capital. Known as DC's Wine Country, Loudoun preserves a simpler time and gives visitors a glimpse into America's past as they drive along unpaved roads to more than 40 wineries.
The rolling countryside, which is nestled between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Potomac River, is dotted with horse farms, vineyards and historic estates. It's a place that serves as an idyllic country escape for Washington notables including the Obamas and Jackie Kennedy Onassis who once spent countless hours riding horses through the winding trails.
Loudoun is not only the closest wine region to Washington, but it also leads Virginia, housing more wineries than any other county in the state. While Virginia has been making wine for hundreds of years, its unique blends and varietals are now garnering international attention and it has become the 5th largest winery state in America.
To help visitors explore this booming wine region, Loudoun's wineries are divided into four distinct themed experiences featuring everything from wineries that pair their vino with music or local fare to vineyards with intimate tastings where visitors can meet the winemaker in Virginia's storied hunt country. From boutique wineries to Mediterranean-style estates, there is a tasting room and experience for everyone to enjoy. Experience Virginia varietals, surprising blends and the state grape, the Viognier, while talking with award-winning winemakers who believe wine tasting is as personal as winemaking.
The story of Loudoun not only includes a thriving wine industry but also an emerging craft brewery scene and foods from farms that have been producing for generations.
Take a break from the vino to sample small batch, hand-crafted local brews. Visitors can let their palate be their guide or follow one of the LoCo Ale Trail itineraries, which highlight everything from bikeable brews to dog friendly breweries.
While in town, enjoy a true farm-to-table meal as numerous restaurants are located on or adjacent to the farms that provide fresh produce and meet to their kitchens daily. Dine under the stars in a glass atrium or in a circa 1905 restored mill. Visit a trendy café that was once a shoe shop or enjoy lunch in a turn-of-the century national bank building. Here, the food is as exceptional as the settings.
The possibilities to explore Loudoun's wine country are endless. Raise a glass and discover Washington, DC's best kept secret.
