This October marks the 31st Virginia Wine Month—the oldest in the United States. No wonder here in Virginia’s River Realm we are as excited by this as the cooler temperatures adorn our afternoons with the changing amber colors of the leaves. There is something truly magical about October in Virginia Wine Country. This month long celebration is the perfect time to visit the stunning landscape, quaint small towns and rolling vines of the River Realm. Enjoy the beginning of Fall with a glass of vino and a blanket draped around your neck at our favorite hang out spots.
Good Luck Cellars
1025 Goodluck Rd, Kilmarnock, VA
Hang with the locals for ‘Wine Down Fridays,’ get there early as the sprawling wrap around porch not only overflows with people but delicious wine and tasty treats. Enjoy rotating Food Trucks like Bryan Byrd of Byrd’s Seafood and local musician Bob Wilson for a relaxing party open to all. Wash down your dinner treats with the vineyard’s extensive list of award winning wines. Enjoy the sunsets over the sprawling vines of magical beauty and serenity.
Dog and Oyster Vineyard
170 White Fences Dr, Irvington, VA
When entering the quaint town of Irvington, the charm and local feels will make you want to stay forever. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of the Tides Inn or Hope & Glory, just a short jaunt or bike ride away from your overnight stay, visit the 40-foot tall corkscrew doorway which beckons guests, and their dogs, to come for an afternoon of delightful and delicious scenes and tastes. The Dog and Oyster recently earned five medals at Purdue University’s INDY international wine competition. Why not stop to Sip (their tasting room) and Slurp (the vineyard’s oyster stand) SLURP on your next visit to Irvington?
Specials Wine Seller
52 South Main Street, KiImarnock, VA
Located in the locals shopping district of Kilmarnock, Amy Groh Britt and her father Tom Groh have built a world within a world at Specials Wine Seller. From floor to ceiling wine racks and carrying more than 3,000 bottles; you can see why this is a favorite spot for locals. Roam the walls whilst enjoying wine by the glass for $5 or by the bottle (with no corkage fee). If your feeling peckish, enjoy the charcuterie boards and wash down with your favorite finds. Don’t miss free wine tasting’s every Friday nights with Amy, a Certified Executive Wine Sommelier!
Vine
77 King Carter Dr, Irvington, VA
Vine is the picture perfect addition to Irvington, the charming patio and chic interior is a romantic setting to taste perfectly paired wines with delicious tapas plates. The walls inside are lined with hand-selected wines, which the friendly staff will help you sift through with ease. Make room in your suitcase to take some home–after you’ve indulged here first, of course!
Upcoming Wine Events!
Urbanna Oyster Festival ~ VIP Oyster Lovers Experience
Come by BOAT or by LAND because we have got everything oyster and more! The charming Town of Urbanna closes it’s streets for this big celebration of oysters and the heritage that surrounds it for two full days with over 60,000 visitors. The VIP Oyster Lovers Experience is the “pearl” of the festival offering access to exclusive amenities to pamper yourself.
Urbanna Wine and Oyster Stroll
Stroll along the charming streets of Urbanna while tasting samples of wine and fresh oysters (and other tasty morsels) at participating restaurants and shops. Be sure to walk down to the Town Marina and see Urbanna Creek with all the beautiful boats and water vistas. Try on the Watermen’s Way boots on for a great photo op at the Town Marina. Oyster Tastings are provided at the Town Green with live music. Stay the night or the whole weekend!
Taste by the Bay – Wine, Arts and Ale
Tides Inn
This highly anticipated fifth year event will include samplings from Virginia wineries, Virginia craft brews, tastings from local restaurants, live music by JJ & Company, and Damion Wolfe, maritime attractions, and just in time for the holiday shopping season- a variety of artisan vendors. Wineries and restaurants alike will be offering tastings, as well as the option to purchase some of our local favorites!
Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail – Fall Oyster Crawl
Join us for a beautiful fall weekend of wine & oyster pairings throughout the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail. Virginia is quickly becoming known as the “Oyster Capital of the East Coast.” And a great way to enjoy the experience is with local wines & oyster pairings along the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail – voted the #1 Wine Trail in Eastern VA by the readers of Virginia Living Magazine.Each winery will offer a distinct oyster and wine paring.
All this, and more, when you visit Virginia’s River Realm! Plan your visit today.
