Are you on the hunt for a perfect weekend-wine-country-trip kind of action? If that’s so, we’ve got a lot to discuss today. In the article you’re about to read, we’ll introduce you to one of Virginia’s hidden gems: the Orange County wineries. Placed right in the heart of the state, Orange County is a sight to see. This US region will leave you speechless with its jaw-dropping countryside, rich history, and phenomenal wineries. We had a challenging task: there are a lot of top-quality wineries to choose from. However, we’ve selected the ones we consider special, wineries without which Orange County wouldn’t be the same. Join us for a quick tour of the wineries in Orange County, VA, which you absolutely must visit!
Orange County: A good region for wine production
That’s right; many experts consider Orange County, VA, one of the best US regions for wine production. The county is located in the Central Virginia AVA (American Viticultural Area), which, as you might’ve heard, enjoys the reputation of being one of the most prominent wine regions on the East Coast. It’s no wonder once you consider its moderate climate and different soil types well-suited for various grapes. The latter include Cabernet Franc, Viognier, Chardonnay, and many others. Orange County wines are quite infamous (in the best way imaginable) for their richness, complexity, balance, and unique character. Therefore, many wine enthusiasts enjoy an occasional (read: once-in-a-month) trip to Orange County. Also, the locals consider wine-making a part of their lifestyle.
As a logical conclusion to the paragraph above, we can say that Orange County is home to some award-winning wineries. We’ve selected only the best. Without further ado, let’s kick-start the tour!
Wine-making is a local tradition in Orange County, Virginia.
#1 Horton Vineyards (Gordonsville, VA)
Here’s one of the most popular wineries not just in Orange County but in Virginia as a whole: Horton Vineyards. You’ll find this winery on a 55-acre estate near Gordonsville. If you’ve ever heard of the famous Norton grape wine, this is the place where you’ll want to try it. Oh, and it’s not only the wines here that are in question. Horton Vineyards is quite renowned for its beautiful tasting room. You’ll have a chance to enjoy a stunning view of the vineyards while browsing through Horton’s reputable offer. Feel free to book a tour of the vineyards and the winery itself. And if you’re moving to Orange County, getting to know its wine culture is one way to prepare for the process. In other words, it should be a part of your moving checklist. Therefore, let’s continue the list!
#2 Barboursville Vineyards (Barboursville, VA)
Now we’ll introduce you to the oldest winery in the country: Barboursville Vineyards. Since its founding (back in 1976), this winery has been producing some top-quality wines. Its founder is Gianni Zonin and an interesting fact about him makes this winery quite unique: he’s a seventh-generation winemaker from Italy. We can write a whole article about Barboursville Vineyards’ signature award-winning products, but it’s enough for you to know that Octagon is their signature wine and that you should try it. We’re talking about a Bordeaux-style blend wine enthusiasts drool over. Besides touring the place, you sit down and enjoy a nice family dinner in the Barboursville Vineyards’ Palladio restaurant (don’t forget to try the Cassata Semifreddo for dessert).
Barboursville Vineyards is a great place to relax with your friends or family.
#3 Woodbrook Farm Vineyard (Orange, VA)
The next one on our list of must-visit wineries in Orange County, VA, is the Woodbrook Farm Vineyard located in Orange (what a name for a town, right?). Resting neatly in the scenic rolling hills of Virginia, this hidden gem offers visitors a temporary solution for all the issues of everyday life, as we’ve heard from the experts over at müv | Trusted Florida Movers. You might want to know that the winery is family-owned and operated, dedicated to sustainable wine production. Their objective is the following: it’s not everything about producing top-quality wine; it’s also about coming up with a product that’s good for the environment. People at the Woodbook Farm Vineyard are specialized in making small-batch, delicious handcrafted wines out of carefully selected grapes using traditional methods. The result is phenomenal, as we hope you’ll find out during your Virginia countryside winery crawl.
#4 Prince Michel Vineyard and Winery (Leon, VA)
If you’re driving through Orange County near Leon, make sure you pay Prince Michel Vineyard and Winery a visit. Ever since the early 1980s, this winery (one of the largest in the state) has been producing high-quality wines. You shouldn’t miss out on enjoying the stunning view of the Blue Ridge Mountains directly from the HQ. You’ll have a lot of space to spread out, and there’s even an inviting fireplace area you’ll be able to check (especially once the weather turns cold). Okay, and what about the wines? Well, you’ll have a solid offer to choose from: everything from the classic reds and whites to more unique blends. Here’s one neat piece of information about the winery in question: Prince Michel’s wine-making methods include the so-called gravity-flow system meant to minimize oxidation and help preserve the wine’s natural flavor.
Sustainable wine production is something many OC wineries strive for.
#5 Keswick Vineyards (Keswick, VA)
Last but not least on our list of must-visit wineries in Orange County, VA, we’ll talk about the phenomenal Keswick Vineyard located in, well, the name says it all – Keswick. We say phenomenal since most past visitors conclude that once you enter the farm’s premises, it’s like you’ve been magically transported to the rolling hills of Tuscany without needing to cross the Atlantic Ocean. Also, even though Keswick Vineyards are known for their Cabernet Franc and Viognier (don’t forget to treat yourself to a bottle of each), all of their wines are fantastic. Once you get there, you’ll be welcomed by the super-friendly staff who’ll make sure you feel at home right from the start. Lastly, if you’re lucky, you’ll even get to meet Lola. We’re talking about the resident vineyard doggie.
Final words on the must-visit wineries in Orange County, VA
That’s about all we’ve prepared on must-visit wineries in Orange County, VA. Hopefully, you’ve enjoyed this quick tour (and will enjoy a real-life wine tour of all the places that we’ve mentioned above). Orange County is one natural beauty, and there are simply no arguments that prove it’s not worth visiting (also, many people choose OC as their place for retirement). Until next time!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
The Omni Homestead is hosting its most popular signature event at the beautiful Main Street Station, located at 1500 E. Main St, Richmond Virginia 23219! This is a week-long event, beginning Saturday, February 18th through Sunday, March 5th, 2023 with various events and guests happening each day. There will be hundreds, yes- you read that right – HUNDREDS of wines from Virginia, Napa Valley, and Argentina, and even Virginia spirits and ciders along with other libations and specialty foods. Prepare your senses to be overwhelmed by the massive selection of wines and spirits offered to sample and also purchase! They have carefully curated an unending array of beverages and every pourer will be equipt to explain the beverage they are pouring.
There will be VIP Sessions available to purchase, which grants you an hour-and-a-half headstart to the general admission and access to highly regarded bottles that will be unavailable to the general admission attendees. Talk about-exclusive!
New for 2023 include some new venues, an Auction, a new signature event, the “International Meritage Celebration” and masterclass opportunities.
Because this is a week-long event, the venue allows you the opportunity to customize and “create your own experience” package with discounts provided for purchasing multiple dates. See their ticket purchase options here.
See the complete event schedule for the Wine Expo, here!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Calling all wine lovers! The Virginia Governor’s Cup is happening Thursday, February 23, 2023, at Richmond’s Main Street Station, and you are encouraged to join! Tickets are now available for purchase. Click here to take advantage of this exclusive taste-testing opportunity of the best wines and ciders that all of Virginia offers.
This event keeps on giving. Not only will you have the opportunity to taste the stellar wines of Virginia, but you will be delighted to know that some local chefs will also be there to share their Haute cuisines. While sampling all of VA the V Foundation will be hosting a silent auction with all proceeds going toward cancer research.
One of the toughest and most strict competitions in the US, hosted by the Virginia Wineries Association, Virginia Vineyards Association, and the Virginia Wine Board; this Virginia Governor’s Cup isn’t taken lightly. Each wine will be scored on a 100-point scale by appearance, aroma, and flavor. The process starts in the preliminary round over a course of 10 days. Seven judges will have the opportunity to taste each wine knowing only the category of the wine or the grape used. The judges will drop the lowest score and average the total for the overall score. Then in the final round taking about 3 days, 12 judges will sample all the winners from the preliminary round. The 12 highest-ranked wines will be named the “Governor’s Cup Case.” The wine with the highest score will be deemed the Govern’s Cup winner.
What do the scores mean by numbers?
100-95 Classic: Among the best in the WHOLE WORLD 94-90 Outstanding: Superior Character and Style 89-85 Very Good: A wine with special quality 84-80 Good: A well-made wine of good quality 79-75 Average: Drinkable wine may have minor flaws 74> Not Recommended (NR) or No Score (NS)
Gold Metal goes to 90-100 Silver Metal goes to 85-89 Bronze Metal goes to 80-84
Don’t miss out on this premier event! Secure your tickets now, here!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contacting Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Virginia is a beautiful state with a unique history. It brings many people not only to visit but also to make this extraordinary place their home. In 2021 Virginia has seen a steady rise of people flocking to live there. The reasons to choose Virginia are many. Some people come because of family and lifestyle, and others because of jobs, retirement, and health. Whichever the reasons to come here are, here is what you can expect from this beautiful state. This article will discuss 7 reasons to move to Virginia this year.
People move to Virginia for various reasons
There is no doubt about it; Virginia is one of the most popular places people are coming to. According to studies, most people came to Virginia because of their family and the comfortable lifestyle. And those reasons are the deciding factor for above 50% of out-of-state arrivals. Other reasons are retirement, job seeking, and health care, respectively. When looking at these numbers, there can be no surprise that the populace coming consists of:
families
adults
job seekers
seniors
Property experts from LakeOfTheWoods state that the number of arrivals from 2021 will also be seen in the current year. There has been a steady increase after the COVID-19 crisis. Many people want to find getaways and start a new life here in Virginia.
The reason to move to Virginia is quality education
The State of Virginia has some of the best options for higher education. It is the home of more than 40 public universities, which is not a small number. Some of them, such as The University of Virginia, The College of William and Mary, and Virginia Tech, are the most sought-after universities. Ones with a good “pedigree” and chance of an excellent career. They are some of the oldest universities built from the end of the 17th century. If you are looking to offer your child the best education, the experts from Next Stop Movers suggest that coming to Virginia is the way to go. Many of their clients move to Virginia, particularly to pursue education opportunities.
Place for retirement
Looking for a place to retire to? Then look no further, as Virginia can be just the spot for you. Friendly, warm-welcoming, and tightly-knitted societies provide excellent opportunities to choose your ideal neighborhood. Virginia towns also enjoy one of the lowest crime rates in the US. Good housing options for aging in place add to the pros of living here. Probably the most compelling reason why seniors choose Virginia is tax friendliness. Any retiree can deduct up to $12,000 in pension and retirement income state taxes, which is a considerable amount. On top of that, the state does not tax Social Security benefits, making Virginia an ideal place for seniors and retirees.
A festival state
During the year, many festivals are held in Virginia. It is one of the more prominent reasons people are coming in draws. There is much happening that can appeal to even the most exquisite tastes. The Blues, Brews, and Barbecue festival is held in the first half of the year. It is located in Yorktown and begins every May. If you are going to Virginia Beach, don’t miss the Neptune Festival. In April, Winchester is hosting its pride, The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival. This enormous festival consists of more than 25 events, including music, dining, and carnivals. You can attend the Deep Roots’ Fall Festival in Orange County in the fall. Don’t miss out on the chance to attend these festivals when coming to Virginia.
Moving to Virginia interstate
Moving can be challenging and stressful, requiring a lot of time, patience, and money to succeed. When moving interstate, for example, from NC to VA, an NC-based team can help you with everything you need when moving to Virginia. This way, you will save your money and precious time, which you can dedicate to more pressing matters. On top of that, you will not have to carry anything by yourself. That can be handled by a punctual team of professionals who will do the heavy lifting for you.
Good healthcare
Virginia is renowned in the US for its excellent healthcare. The state is investing a lot of effort and money in its healthcare. So much so that Virginia is constantly rising on the list of the best public health providers every year. Excellent hospitals such as Inova Fairfax Hospital, Sentara Norfolk General, and other centers make it a perfect spot for every person with health issues, disabilities, or seniors.
A thriving economy is a reason to move to Virginia
If you are looking for good reasons to move to Virginia, this may help you decide. Virginia is home to a diverse economy. From the shipbuilding industry, farming, and seafood harvesting. You can also find many fine wineries and distilleries. The various business opportunities brought many intellectuals and investors. This led to a steady rise and boom in the economy of Virginia, and career options are also many. A perfect place for young entrepreneurs and families seeking quality jobs.
Move to Virginia because of the weather
Moderate levels of rainfall throughout the year, hot summers, and mild winters are what make Virginia so special. It has a humid subtropical climate and one that you can enjoy no matter the season. Depending on where you choose to settle in Virginia, you can see winter snow and enjoy hot summer days in the sun. Be prepared, though, because the weather is constantly changing, bringing many rainy days and nights.
Moving to Virginia brings a lot of benefits. Virginia has everything from the tax deduction if you are a senior, good healthcare, diverse culture, to a great education and weather. However, there are also annual festivals and friendly tightly-knitted societies in rural places, making it a perfect spot for early retirement. Diverse cuisine and steady rise in economy prove Virginia is also an ideal option for entrepreneurs and thriving families. The landscape and nature are also something that you can treasure if you like spending time outdoors. Come to Virginia and experience a modern lifestyle combined with American tradition.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
The Annual Orange Uncorked Wine Festival is celebrating it’s 31st annual year!! Sponsored by the Market at Grelen, the Orange Uncorked Wine Festival is due to take place this year on Mother’s Day weekend, on both Saturday May 7th and Sunday, May 8th! It will take place at: 10325 Jacksontown Rd, Somerset Virginia 22972 from 10am to 5pm on Saturday and 11am to 5pm on Sunday. Be sure to mark your calendars and buy your tickets! Tickets range from $30-$50 per person while designated driver tickets and ages 13-20 are $10 per ticket and under 12 years old are free! Tickets purchased at the gate are $40 per person. What’s happening at the festival? There will be multiple wineries participating and sharing their vineyard wine tastings, live music and the 2nd annual mustache-beard competition. Must enter online to participate on the competition. There will be a variety of food vendors ready to provide you a tasty treat with your wine pairings. Both days will host live music and a hat contest! To buy tickets online, register for the beard/mustache contest or just to learn more about the event visit their website here.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
This celebration of 2022 Virginia Governor’s Cup® is a one-of-a-kind, annual event that offers the unique opportunity to taste the best Virginia wines produced across the Commonwealth! There are 2 tiers of tickets available to purchase, general admission for $250/each or VIP for $600. The event is held in Richmond’s Main Street Station located at: 1500 E. Main St, Richmond VA 23219 on Thursday, March 24th from 4:30PM – 7:00PM. This is one of the most stringent competition in the US each year featuring world-class judges to sample hundreds of the best Virginia wines. The competition itself, is hosted by the Virginia Wineries Association and Best in Cider will be awarded for the second year. The highest 12-ranking red and white wines will become the Governor’s Cup® Case. There will be a silent auction held with proceeds going toward cancer research.
What does General Admission get you? The opportunity to taste over 100 gold medal-winning wines from the 2022 Governor’s Cup® competition Sample variety of small plates prepared by local chefs Participate in an auction with proceeds going towards cancer research, hosted by the V Foundation Witness the announcements of this year’s Governor’s Cup® Case, Cup & Best in Show Cider winners
What does VIP experience get you?
In additional to all the above with the general admission, VIP guests will receive entry to a fully catered VIP tasting lounge, including meet and greet with winning winemakers and special pours, intimate multi-course tasting menu for dinner paired with the 2022 winners wine, guided by the winemakers themselves!! Transportation will be provided! VIP experience will also include an exclusive winery passport with complimentary tastings for ticket holds and a guest at each of the Winning Wineries valid through 12/31/2022, and finally they will receive preferred seating during the awards reveal of the winners!!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
The Millers Co. and Sullivan’s Bake Shoppe are hosting their first event at Wilderness Run Vineyards. They’ve partnered together to offer Whiskey peanut butter truffles, hot cocoa bombs, a variety of decorated and flavored cookies, macarons, Valentine’s jewelry, décor and more!
Grab your special someone and bring them by Wilderness Run located at 11109 Plank Rd, Spotsylvania VA 22553 on Saturday, February 5th. The Millers Co. and Sullivan’s Bake Shoppe will be there from 12p – 4pm. Check it the event on Facebook for the most up to date information.
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.
Are you ready to try some of the most delectable wines found in Orange County, VA? Then make sure you don’t miss the 30th annual Orange Uncorked Wine Festival happening on Saturday, May 1st and 2nd from 10 AM – 5 PM across from the Market at Grelen! You’ll enjoy the scenic views, listen to some great music, fresh air, delicious food, unique artisans, plenty of room to enjoy the great outdoors, and of course, an assortment of local wines and ciders! Early bird tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at orangevachamber.com. All Covid restricted guidelines will be followed at this event. Spring has sprung, and you don’t want to miss the 30th Annual Orange Uncorked Wine Festival! For more information and to stay up-to-date, click here!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
Potomac Point Vineyard and Winery knows that you want your Valentine’s Day to be special, and they’ve come up with multiple ways to spend the weekend with the one you love! The Ladies at Wild Tribe Co. have put together beautifully decorated wine tents that are sure to put off that Valentine’s Day vibe! The tens will be available from 2/3 – 2/14, and if you decide to book them on Feb. 12th, 13th, or 14th, you will also have the ability to pre-order one of their “Love is Sweet” Dessert Platters!
Indoor and outdoor reservations will also be available on Valentine’s Day and have fireside options that you may request. Special menu selections will also be available from Feb. 12th – 14th and can be viewed by clicking here.
If you’re looking to spend this special day at home, Potomac Point has you covered with several to-go options! Make this Valentine’s Day special by spending your day with the one you love, and by visiting Potomac Point Vineyard and Winery!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia, or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
It’s time to say so long to 2020, and good riddance with a New Years Eve dinner at Potomac Point Vineyard and Winery! The evening will start off with a sparkling wine toast, and follows with a 3 course prix fixe menu. Each course will include an ideal wine pairing from one of Potomac Point wines. Total cost will be $84 per person + tax and a 20% service fee.
Reservations are required, and the event will be accepting groups of 2-8 guests. Groups that include 2-4 guests will have a 2-hour reservation and groups of 4-8 will have a 2.5-hour reservation. It’s recommended that you arrived 10 minutes prior to your reservation time. For more information including where to purchase tickets, Click Here!
Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Orange, Locust Grove, Culpeper, Northern Virginia or even Maryland or DC, we are your Real Estate team committed to finding the perfect home for you! Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar, and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, one of our area expert advisors will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.
To see available properties, please visit our website licatagroup.com
