Tastings, music, movies in ‘D.C.’s Wine Country’
Virginia is home to more than 250 wineries. The state’s Middleburg area, in Loudoun County, has two dozen wineries alone, and calls itself “D.C.’s Wine Country.” Middleburg is about an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C., or about 39 kilometres from Washington Dulles International Airport. October is Virginia Wine Month with special events.
TASTINGS AND TOURS
Cana Vineyards and Winery of Middleburg is named after the town of Cana of Galilee where Jesus turned water into wine. The winery offers eight tastings for $10 US (all amounts in US dollars) plus a souvenir glass. Here you could have a traditional Cabernet or Merlot, but why not try their Blueberry Apple wine or Rhapsody in Red, a semisweet Pinot Noir. The winery — perched on a hill that overlooks the Bull Run Mountains — hosts live bands every Saturday and Sunday.
Greenhill Winery and Vineyards dubs itself the boutique destination winery. There’s a historic stone house and outdoor seating on the 53-hectare property. A sampling of seven wines in the tasting room costs $14. Grapes to Glass, a two-hour, private tour with a wine tasting is $35 per person.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Luxury accommodations in the region include the Salamander Resort and Spa. Facilities include a cooking demonstration studio, wine bar, billiards room and a fullservice equestrian centre with a riding arena. You don’t need to be staying at the resort to book a trail ride. Rooms at the resort start at $425 during the peak months of April, May, June, September and October. Watch for specials, like a $149-a-night deal during Super Bowl festivities.
For a more quaint stay, try the Red Fox Inn and Tavern. The inn — which opened in 1728 — has 15 guest rooms and the Middleburg House, a two-bedroom home. The inn is walking distance from many Middleburg shops. The Martha Washington, an average-size room with a king bed and shower only, could run about $245 during peak season. Its Tavern offers more than 40 local wines and dishes.
POPCORN AND CULTURE
Deltone L. Moore was inspired to open his Popcorn Monkey shop by memories of eating popcorn as a kid. The store has more than 20 varieties. It’s open Wednesday through Sunday.
For a little history and culture, visit the National Sporting Library and Museum.
The Middleburg Film Festival from Oct. 22-25 will feature movie screenings plus Q& A sessions with filmmakers and actors.