Monticello Wine Region

The Monticello Wine Region is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of central Virginia and is known for its award-winning wines. The region is home to more than 50 wineries, many of which are family-owned and operated. 

Thomas Jefferson was clearly a visionary when he saw the potential of Monticello and gave it an opportunity to thrive. The area has flourished in recent years, with its remarkable terroir comparable to Napa Valley in terms of quality and range. His dream for the region has definitely come true!

A Monticello Wine County tour is designed to provide an in-depth look at the area’s winemaking history, culture, and industry. Participants can expect to visit a variety of vineyards and wineries, learn about the process of making wine, and sample some of the area’s finest wines.  Additionally, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and canoeing.

We hope you will experience the superb wines that make Monticello a favorite for wine drinkers worldwide. Browse our site to discover what Wineries in Monticello have to offer to plan a memorable winery tour.

Find out more about Wine Tasting and Tours in Monticello.

Where is the Monticello Wine Region?

Monticello is a wine-producing region in the Piedmont area of Virginia, United States. It is an American Viticultural Area (AVA) that is one of the largest and oldest in Virginia situated just east of the larger Shenandoah Valley. It spreads across five counties and provides some of the best wines in the state. Vineyards cover the eastern slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the rolling farmland at the base of the slopes.

Unique Terroir of Monticello Wine Region

Grapes grown in Monticello region benefit from the hot summers which provide ideal conditions for the grapes to reach a high sugar concentration and develop a full-bodied flavor. The long, warm days and nights give the grapes time to ripen and mature, resulting in a complex taste. However, during the winter season, drastic temperature drops can occur, causing temperatures to dip below freezing which poses a serious risk to the survival of the grapes. Cold weather can damage or even kill the grapes if the extreme cold persists for too long.

To protect the vineyards from the damaging effects of spring frost, the ideal location for planting these crops is usually situated at an altitude of 245 m or higher and on sloping hills of Blue Ridge Mountains. This strategy ensures that the cold air is quickly dissipated away from the vines and down slopes, providing an optimal environment with plenty of sunlight exposure to enhance their growth.

In this particular area, the soil composition is incredibly diverse, ranging from coarse sand to thick clay-based soils. Clay is the most prominent soil type present in this area and makes up a significant portion of the total soil composition.

History of Monticello Wine Region

According to records, winemaking in the region was first attempted in the 1770s. US third president Thomas Jefferson was instrumental in the development of the Monticello wine region, providing both financial and intellectual support which enabled it to become one of the first and successful winemaking regions in America. He was an avid wine enthusiast, and he used his knowledge to help create a thriving grape-growing industry where none had previously existed. His passion for this sector led him to purchase vast amounts of land in the region, plant numerous vineyards, and develop innovative viticulture techniques that are still in use today. 

Monticello AVA is a renowned wine-producing area that is now increasingly compared to the well-known Napa Valley in California for its terroir quality.

Monticello is the oldest wine region in Virginia and most of its acreage is dedicated to producing premium wines. Established as a protected wine region in 1984, this area continues to provide incredible wines for decades now.

What is Monticello Wine?

The soil and climate conditions in the area provide the perfect environment for a wide range of grape varieties to be grown. Most of the vineyards at Monticello are currently composed of well-known European vinifera grapes, like Chardonnay, Cabernet franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Viogner and Merlot. However, a few French-American hybrid varieties, as well as some native American varieties such as Norton, can still be found in smaller quantities in the vineyards. These varieties of grapes have been carefully chosen by the winemakers for their unique flavor profiles and contribute to the unique wines that can be found at Monticello. 

The local grape-growing region currently produces a wide range of varietal wines such as Chambourcin, Gewurztraminer and Malbec, Muscat Canelli, Muscat of Alexandria, Orange Muscat, Petit Manseng, Petit Verdot, Pinot gris and Pinot noir. Additionally Riesling is another popular varietal in the area, Rkatsiteli, Seyval Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah, Tannat, Touriga Nacional, Traminette, Vidal Blanc, and Zinfandel. Each of these wines have their own unique flavor profile and characteristics to offer.

What Food to Pair with Monticello Wine?

Cordero asado, Roasted Lamb

Cordero asado is a traditional Castilian dish that consists of barbecued whole lamb. The marinade used to add flavor and aroma to the meat often includes lemon, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Cordero asado is a delicious dish that requires slow-cooking over an open fire. It is typically served with roasted potatoes & onions as sides. This succulent roasted lamb pairs well with Monticello Cabernet Franc, creating a flavorful meal.

Key Lime Pie

Originating from the Florida Keys, Key Lime Pie is a classic sweet and sour dessert with a glass-green tint. It is made with an intense collection of aromatics from Key lime juice, condensed milk and eggs, which come together to form a delicious custard. The graham cracker crust provides a buttery base for the custard, which is then topped with sweetened whipped cream for a delightful dessert.

The tangy and sharp taste of limes gives a nice balance to the sugary sweetness of cream and sugar. This classic dessert is often served with light, crisp and fruity white wines, making it even more enjoyable. Nowadays, many people use them together to create the perfect sweet indulgence.

Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a beloved dish all across the United States, one that requires only two ingredients to make. Despite its simplicity, it's often called one of America's favorite dishes. Mac and cheese is traditionally the go-to American meal. However, recent recipes have included different ingredients like vegetables, breadcrumbs, and various gourmet items like crab, lobster, or truffles for added flavor.

Thomas Jefferson is credited with popularizing Macaroni and Cheese in the United States. However, its roots are believed to be in similar dishes from Italy and France. It has since become a staple food of American cuisine.

Mac and cheese is a budget-friendly, fuss-free dish that can cater to the whole family, which explains why it has become a commonplace meal in American households. It is an absolute classic comfort food and is often regarded as one of the most beloved American dishes.

Places to visit in Monticello

Exploring the Monticello Wine Trail – An Unforgettable Experience for Wine Lovers

The Monticello Wine Trail is a spectacular journey through Virginia’s wine country. This scenic route takes you through the rolling hills of Central Virginia, and offers a diverse selection of wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms. Whether you’re looking for an educational experience, a romantic getaway, or simply a great time with friends, the Monticello Wine Trail has something for everyone.

The Bearfence Rock Scramble - Fun, Exciting Hike With Rewarding View on the Top

The Bearfence Rock Scramble promises an exciting, adventure-filled hike located at Mile Marker 56.4 in the stunning Shenandoah National Park (SNP)! It's a fun, short excursion that usually lasts around one hour for the average hiker - perfect for a quick, yet fulfilling outdoor experience.If you're an outdoor enthusiast, this is the ideal hike for you! Not only does it boast some spectacular views, but it also provides thrilling scrambles that give a unique adventure. Don't miss out - this hike is a must-do! If you're looking for a day of thrilling fun, this activity is sure to bring joy to both kids and adults. You'll be challenged with scrambling across boulders with your hands and feet and by the end, you'll have an unforgettable 360° viewpoint that will leave you stunned!

Frequently Asked Questions About Monticello AVA