The Northern, VA wine region aka NOVA, is a wonderful escape for those who are wine lovers and/or those who love scenic destinations. It’s approximately one hour outside of the DC area, but it feels like another world.
While I love sipping wine by a firepit in the fall, or lying on a blanket with a basket full of meat and cheese in the summer, there is nothing that I love more than a winery with beautiful landscapes, rolling hills, and places for a dope scenic shot for the gram. I mean, c’mon, it didn’t happen if it’s not on the gram, right? Check out my faves below:
Hillsborough Vineyards and Brewery
Hillsborough is one of the first vineyards that I visited when I moved to NOVA 9 years ago, and it is still one of my favorites today. It is very scenic as it overlooks the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains – which are perfect for outdoor photos. The tasting room, while fairly intimate, is very nice and has a nice view. Personally, when visiting Hillsborough, I prefer a casual tasting with small plates and their self-guided wine flights. If you love food photography, their cheeseboards are not only delicious, but perfectly styled for a good IG image.
Breaux
If you visit Hillsborough, you should visit Breaux as well – it’s right down the street. Breaux is an award-winning, Cajun-owned winery and vineyard in Purcellville. It has exceptional views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and both the vines and tasting room are stunning. Breaux is one of the few wineries that I love to visit no matter what the season is, because I can always take great photos. The wine is good, and they have a good selection of crackers and cheese. They also have amazing chocolate for sale.
Bluemont Vineyards
If you’re a first-time visitor to the Northern, VA wine region you have to go to Bluemont. Most may say that Bluemont has the most scenic, panoramic views of Loudoun County. One of the things that I love most about Bluemont – is that they have many props that make for great photos. Whether it’s the “Find your Vine” barrels or the grape vines on top of the rolling hills, it’s an IG lover’s dream.
Blue Valley Vineyards
Blue Valley has gorgeous views of both the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley. It is located in Delaplane Wine Country. There isn’t a bad place for photos at Blue Valley. While I love the front outside balcony, I really love the barrel room and the cave. If you ask for a tour of the facility, you will have the opportunity to sneak a couple photos in these spaces.
Stone Tower
Stone Tower is also a favorite of both locals and visitors to NOVA. It is extremely popular on the weekends, so keep that in mind. The wines, while decent (and pricey), aren’t my favorite. I do love their Petit Verdot if you want a good glass of red. There are two buildings – the Tower View which is for those who are 21 and over and the Harvest Barn which is geared towards families and pets. When the weather is nice, I love photos near the pond, the grape vines or on any of the multiple decks that are available for the public. In cooler temps, the main tasting room has a beautiful fireplace and multiple tasting spaces. They also do a great job of decorating around the holidays.
