Come closer, we’re about to share one of Virginia’s best-kept secrets:
Our majestic mountains and rolling green hills aren’t just a haven for outdoor adventurers and rustic farms. You’ll also find a treasure trove of distinct wines harvested from family-owned vineyards.
In fact, there are only four states that boast more wineries than Virginia: Washington, Oregon, California, and New York.
This makes Virginia the #5 wine producing state in the country!
Blacksburg is no exception. Whether you’re visiting to root on the Hokies at a home game or coming in for a conference, don’t be surprised when talk turns to wine or when ordering takes longer than usual because of extensive wine lists.
Here are all the ways to fill that wine glass during your stay:
Taste One of Wine Spectator’s Favorite Wine Lists
Wine Spectator Magazine has consistently awarded one Blacksburg restaurant with having one of the best wine lists in the world for 7 years straight…our very own Preston’s! Our robust wine list showcases progressive international labels, from South Africa to Chile to Australia to our very own Virginia vineyards. Not only does the Wine Spectator place us among 2000+ other international Award of Excellence winners, but also as the only restaurant in New River Valley to be awarded the honor.
Want to see what all the fuss is about? Check out our wine list and find out!
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Discover Obscure Global Wines
Virginia Tech’s Geography of Wine class became so inundated with enrollments that they had to move it online. Today, wine expert Professor John Boyer piggybacked his class’ popularity and his famed on-campus persona with a new venture – the Blacksburg Wine Lab. Here, you’ll discover and experiment with wines from off-the-radar wine producing regions, like China, Greece, and Sardinia. This wine bar features cozy wood-lined space where you’ll sip and socialize among the locals over international wines, tapas, and memorable conversation.
Trip Tip: Take The Inn at Virginia Tech’s free shuttle to the Wine Lab or any other wine destination within three miles of the hotel.
Escape to Appalachian Wineries
Just a short, beautiful drive away from the hotel’s front door you will find gorgeous wineries with mountain views and wine tasting. Some favorites include:
Beliveau Estate
Set on a 165-acre estate, this country winery features hiking trails, lavender fields, and award-winning wines to sip and savor in tranquility.
Whitebarrel Winery
Known for its picturesque scenery and distinctive wines, Whitebarrel Winery offers breathtaking winery views, daily wine tastings, winery tours and an eatery featuring local foods and cheese.
Chateau Morrisette
Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Chateau Morrisette has been hand-crafting wines since 1978 and boast vast mountain views, daily wine tastings, and fine dining restaurant.
Get the Virginia Winery Experience Without a Car
No car to travel to the loved-by-locals Whitebarrel Winery, about a 20-minute drive away? No worries! Get the full Appalachian wine tasting experience at their downtown Blacksburg Whitebarrel Wine & Tapas Bar. Here you’ll find all Whitebarrel wines, plus up to 30 Virginia wines and ciders from other local purveyors. Pair your sips with tapas and cheese, all sourced from Whitebarrel’s farm or local farms in the region.
Buy Bottles Curated by Local Wine Aficionado
Blacksburg local Keith Roberts has been curating exotic beer and wine for 40 years and created at his Vintage Cellar in 1993. This shop has since turned into a town staple where you can browse a wide selection of wine hailing from more than 15 wine-producing regions around the world, in addition to local and global craft brews. Along with high-end selections, you’ll find affordable bottles priced as low as $5, plus free weekly wine tastings. Be sure to check out the shelves dedicated to Virginia wines.
Whether you have an adventurous palate craving exciting international wines or if you like to keep stock of your favorite labels, Blacksburg satiates all wine appetites. Plan your next wine escape with our Virginia Wine Lovers package, offering Preston’s private wine label gift, luxury overnight accommodations, a farm-to-table dinner for two at Preston’s and a flight from their award-winning global wine list, breakfast for two, and a Virginia wine trail map to guide your wine adventures.
