Barboursville Vineyards
17655 Winery Road, Barboursville, Virginia, VA, 22923
A landmark Virginia winery with a distinctly European sensibility, Barboursville Vineyards’ first vines were planted nearly half a century ago. Today, the winery—located on a 900-acre (364-hectare) site once owned by former Virginia governor James Barbour—produces top-rated red, white, sparkling, and dessert wines and invites guests to visit its tasting rooms (and the ruins of Barbour’s estate, designed by Thomas Jefferson).
The basics
Rumor has it that Thomas Jefferson himself once saw the potential of this “enchanted corner” in the Southwest Mountains of Piedmont Virginia. In 1976, Gianni Zonin (from one of Italy’s most esteemed winemaking families) founded Barboursville Vineyards. Today, the winery is considered a standout of the Virginia wine scene and has more awards than any other in the state.
You can come to this highlight stop on the Monticello Wine Trail to sip and swirl in the Discovery Tasting Room; learn about the winemaking process in the Octagon Barrel Room; as well as independently tour its grounds, which feature several 18th-century landmarks. For a premium experience, make a booking at Library 1821. This specialist tasting room offers a changing selection of flights that showcase the winery’s past vintages.
Things to know before you go
Leashed dogs are welcome in most areas of Barboursville Vineyards.
For a high-end dining experience, eat at the on-site Palladio Restaurant; personal picnics are permitted by the Wine Barn.
Reservations are not required for the Discovery Tasting Room.
Groups of 6–10 can make advance reservations at Library 1821.
The 1804 Inn and cottages offer a range of accommodation options.
Barboursville Vineyards does not currently host tours, but visitors are encouraged to explore independently.
How to get there
Barboursville Vineyards is located at 17655 Winery Road in Barboursville, Virginia. The closest hub is Charlottesville, roughly half an hour by car via VA-20 N. The winery is also within a day-trip distance of Richmond (roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes away via I-64 W) and Washington DC (2 hours away via I-95 S and VA-20 S). Public transit options are limited.
When to get there
Barboursville Vineyards is open daily, from morning until early evening. The winery is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. The Palladio restaurant is open Wednesday–Sunday. Library 1821’s hours vary throughout the week. Research dining hours before you visit.
Top wines to try
If there’s one wine that’s most closely associated with Barboursville Vineyards, it’s Octagon. This flagship red blends merlot and cabernet franc grapes. It is the most renowned red wine in all of Virginia and a certified must-try. While at the winery, don’t miss Nascent (a premium white blend featuring viognier, vermentino, and falanghina) and Paxxito, a dessert wine.
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