The Best Central Virginia Wineries to Visit During Covid-19
Here in Virginia we are slowly opening up parts of our state ! This means that the hospitality industry, and WINERIES can finally being to resume action. We are very lucky here in Virginia, because a lot of wineries have tons of open space outdoors for people to safely social distance.
Last week I ventured out to two different wineries here in the Charlottesville area. I have done some research as well into the COVID-19 protocols and additional new steps that each of these wineries are taking as they welcome people back. Safety comes first! Based off of research and past visits to these wineries, these are my top recommendations for you to visit in the coming weeks!
Barboursville Vineyards
Barboursville has always been one of my favorite Central VA wineries. They have a tremendous tasting list and are known for one of the most outstanding wines in the state, The Octagon.
During Phase 1 reopening they are offering bottle sales and wines by the glass. Seated tastings are available under their covered patio. They also have a limited take-out menu from Palladio Restaurant, Wednesday through Sunday, to enjoy with your wine or take home.
They have acres of space for you to bring a blanket or sit on their patio!
Hours:
Monday-Saturday, 10am to 5pm
Sunday, 11am to 5pm
Library 1821, 11am to 7pm on Fridays
See more detailed info here: https://www.bbvwine.com/news/we-are-open-again
The Tasting Room & Taphouse at Mount Ida Reserve
One of the newer wineries in the area, Mount Ida offers wine, beer, food and fantastic mountain views.
Their large covered patio is available to adults only, however they have tons of other space with chairs, tables, fire-pits and grass for the whole family to enjoy!
All food is served picnic style and is available Friday – Sunday. There will be no tastings for the time being, but they offer wines by the bottle or glass.
Hours:
Sun-Thurs, noon-6pm
Fri-Sat, noon-7pm
See more details here: https://mountidareserve.com/plan-your-visit/
Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards
During phase 1 of reopening, Pippin Hill is offering a few different unique experiences for guests! Reservations are required for all experiences. They will be offering Lawn Service, Veranda Table service, and a more luxurious four course wine a food pairing – Vintner’s Table.
All parties must be between 2-10 guests. They will have hand washing stations, and masks available for purchase. Online pick-up for takout will still be available Wed – Sunday 11am – 5pm.
Hours:
Thursday – Sunday, 11am – 5pm
Read the full guidelines and descriptions here: https://www.pippinhillfarm.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/PHF_Phase1_PoliciesGuidelines_5.16.20.pdf
Veritas
Similar to Pippin Hill, Veritas is currently reservation only. You will be able to reserve a roped off space on the lawn that includes a picnic table and tent. They are available by the hour and are full service! This space is absolutely beautiful AND the wine is fantastic.
They also have curbside pickup available Friday and Saturday from noon – 5pm.
Hours:
Seven Days a week, 11am-5pm
For more info and to see their phase 1 updates video click here: https://veritaswines.com/policies
Knight’s Gambit Vineyard
Another winery with beautiful open space, Knight’s Gambit is a great one to venture out to! They are doing bottle & glass sales only using recyclable plastic cups. They have set in place many rules and protocols to keep the area clean and people safe!
They also have been super creative with making Corona Care Packages for people to purchase during these hard times.
Hours
Monday – Pickup & Delivery Only
Tuesday – Pickup & Delivery Only
Wednesday – Pickup & Delivery Only
Thursday – Pickup & Delivery Only
Friday – 4-8pm
Saturday – 2-8pm
Sunday – 2-6pm
Find out more info here: https://www.knightsgambitvineyard.com/
King Family Vineyards
King Family is the first winery I visited last weekend. They did a great job of taking extra precautions to keep everyone safe. They have tons of space, some including picnic tables, and their polo field is available for you to drive up and park your car.
They are currently offering bottle sales, cans, and seated tastings.
Hours:
Daily, 10am – 5:30pm
Learn more here: https://kingfamilyvineyards.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Reopening-Updates-1.pdf
There are also a lot more Central Virginia wineries in the process of reopening during Phase 1. These are just a few of my favorites! Check out the full list at https://www.virginiawine.org/.
If you are interested in checking out Northern VA wine country once it reopens, see my Travel Guide to Northern Virginia Wine Country.
I hope you all enjoy getting out and enjoying the fresh air and delicious wine. Stay safe!
