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Lifestyle, Wine & Travel, Northern Virginia, Real Estate
Thinking about spending a weekend surrounded by rolling hills, rustic charm, and award-winning wines? Fauquier County is home to some of Northern Virginia’s most celebrated wineries—and they’re not just for day trips. This picturesque wine region is an essential part of the area's appeal for both visitors and future homeowners looking to embrace a slower, scenic lifestyle.
Whether you're hunting for the perfect Cabernet Franc or just want to enjoy a glass with a view, here are five standout wineries that capture the essence of Fauquier County.
Barrel Oak Winery – Delaplane
Family-friendly. Dog-friendly. Sunset-perfect. Barrel Oak isn’t just a winery—it’s a weekend destination. With a welcoming atmosphere, food trucks, wood-fired pizza, and live music, it’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends. Their Norton and BOWHaus Red are local favorites.
Local tip: Grab a seat at sunset. The Blue Ridge views are spectacular.
Website: barreloak.com
Location: 3623 Grove Ln, Delaplane, VA
Open: Daily, 11:00 AM–7:00 PM (till 9:00 PM Friday & Saturday)
Distance from D.C.: ~1 hour (55 miles)
Why Visit: One of the most family- and dog-friendly wineries in the region, Barrel Oak offers a casual, welcoming atmosphere with plenty of seating, wood-fired pizza, and views of the Piedmont countryside. It’s especially popular for group outings and sunset sips.
Photo Credit: barreloak.com
Delaplane Cellars – Delaplane
Elevated wines with equally elevated views. If you’re serious about wine, this is your spot. Delaplane Cellars focuses on small-lot, estate-grown wines and boasts a stylish tasting room perched on a ridge with dramatic views over the valley. Their Sauvignon Blanc and Melange Rouge are worth savoring.
Best for: Romantic dates, quiet sips, and refined palates.
Website: delaplanecellars.com
Location: 2182 Delaplane Grade Rd, Delaplane, VA
Open: Friday–Monday, 11:00 AM–5:00 PM
Distance from D.C.: ~1 hour (55 miles)
Why Visit: Known for its elegant Bordeaux-style wines and sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Delaplane Cellars offers an intimate, elevated tasting experience. The hilltop patio is a guest favorite.
Photo Credit: Fauquier Wine Council – Delaplane Cellars
RdV Vineyards – Delaplane
Napa elegance meets Virginia terroir. Considered one of Virginia’s most exclusive wineries, RdV has earned national praise for Bordeaux-style reds that rival anything in California or France. Tastings are by appointment only and include a guided tour of the winery.
Expect: Top-tier experiences, vineyard education, and bold reds with finesse.
Website: rdvvineyards.com
Location: 2550 Delaplane Grade Rd, Delaplane, VA
Open: By appointment only (Thursday–Sunday)
Distance from D.C.: ~1 hour (58 miles)
Why Visit: A luxury estate winery focused on premium reds, RDV is invitation-only and offers private, guided tastings. It’s one of Virginia’s most prestigious wineries with limited-production vintages.
Photo Credit: NLB Architects – RDV Vineyards
Vint Hill Craft Winery – Vint Hill
Wine with a side of Cold War history. Set in a former WWII-era spy base, Vint Hill offers unique wines and a one-of-a-kind setting. It's also one of the few places where you can blend and bottle your own wine—a popular group activity.
Fun fact: The winery sits on an old CIA communications hub.
Website: vinthillcraftwinery.com
Location: 7150 Lineweaver Rd, Vint Hill Farms, VA
Open: Wednesday–Sunday, 12:00 PM–6:00 PM
Distance from D.C.: ~50 minutes (45 miles)
Why Visit: Housed in a historic Cold War-era spy facility, this urban-style winery offers not just tastings, but wine-making experiences. It's perfect for wine lovers looking for something hands-on and educational.
Photo Credit: Fauquier Wine Council – Vint Hill Craft Winery
Molon Lave Vineyards – Warrenton
Greek roots, Virginia soul. This family-owned winery brings Mediterranean flair to Fauquier with Greek-style wines and hospitality. Their Kleftiko (a red blend) and Raspberry Merlot dessert wine are standouts. It’s a peaceful, less crowded spot with plenty of charm.
Perfect for: A low-key afternoon with picnic vibes and friendly pours.
Website: molonlavevineyards.com
Location: 10075 Lees Mill Rd, Warrenton, VA
Open: Daily, 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
Distance from D.C.: ~1 hour 10 minutes (60 miles)
Why Visit: A family-run winery with Greek heritage, Molon Lave offers a mix of traditional and fruit wines in a serene setting. The winery features a lake, picnic space, and live music events, making it ideal for a relaxing weekend visit.
Photo Credit: Tripadvisor – Molon Lave Vineyards
Why It Matters (Beyond the Wine)
Exploring Fauquier County’s wineries isn’t just about what’s in your glass—it’s about discovering the lifestyle. Many Northern Virginia homebuyers fall in love with the region during visits to local vineyards. These scenic escapes offer a taste of the tranquility and community that define life outside the Beltway.
Whether you're sipping for the day or staying for good, Fauquier County’s wine scene is one more reason to love—and maybe live in—Northern Virginia.
Thinking About Making the Move?
If you’re dreaming of vineyard weekends and countryside living, the Colgan Team can help you find a home that pairs perfectly with your lifestyle.
Email: info@colganteam.com
Explore Listings: Search Northern Virginia Homes
Watch home tours and tips: Chris Colgan Team on YouTube
Instagram: @ChrisColganTeam
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