From DC: Premium Virginia Wine Country Tour with Tastings

If you’re looking for a way to escape the city and indulge in some of the best wines Virginia has to offer, the Premium Virginia Wine Country Tour with Tastings by Spirited Tours might just be what you need. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, the detailed reviews, itinerary, and highlights paint a clear picture of a relaxed, informative, and delicious experience.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines the charm of Virginia’s lush countryside with the opportunity to learn about local winemaking from passionate guides. The opportunity to taste a variety of Virginia wines, enjoy scenic views, and explore two traditional vineyards makes it a well-rounded day out. One possible consideration is the cost of $200 per person, which might seem steep if you’re on a tight budget, but the inclusion of transportation, guided tastings, and snacks helps justify the price.

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to expand their tasting repertoire, curious travelers wanting to learn about Virginia’s wine history, or anyone seeking a relaxing day trip that combines education and indulgence. Families or groups of friends looking for a guided experience in beautiful surroundings will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Includes transportation from Washington DC, making it convenient and stress-free.
• Guided tastings at two vineyards offer insight into Virginia’s wine production and history.
• Enjoy the scenic drive with views of Virginia’s countryside, leaving behind city hustle.
• Snacks included at both stops enhance the tasting experience.
• Tour duration of 6 hours strikes a good balance between a full experience without being overly long.
• Limited to guests 21 and over, so it’s best suited for adult wine lovers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Virginia Wine Country Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour departs from the back entrance of the Marriott Marquis hotel in Washington DC. The transportation is provided by Spirited Tours, who use a comfortable van to whisk you away into Virginia’s pastoral landscape. This setup is ideal for visitors who prefer not to worry about driving or navigating their way to the wineries themselves.

The 6-hour duration usually means a morning departure, giving you the day to enjoy without feeling rushed. The ride itself offers a chance to relax and take in the changing scenery, leaving the city’s tall buildings behind as you head into the rolling hills and vineyards.

The First Stop: Gray Ghost Vineyard

Our sources highlight Gray Ghost Vineyard as a standout first stop. The owner, Al, warmly welcomes visitors and provides a tour of the vineyard, including a visit to an impressive wine library—a rare treat for wine fans. The tasting room here is where you’ll sample 11 different wines, ranging from deep reds to crisp whites, with the Chardonnay reserve being a favorite among many.

The reviews describe the experience as “brilliant,” noting the variety and quality of wines. One traveler from the UK said, “It was so interesting to hear about the history and characters of wine in the region,” which shows the tour’s educational aspect. The opportunity to taste such a broad selection in one sitting is a real highlight, especially when paired with the detailed tour of the facilities and wine library.

The Second Stop: Narmada Winery

After the first vineyard, the tour continues to Narmada Winery for a flight of three wines. The setting here is described as beautiful, with scenic views that are just right for sipping and relaxing. Whether it’s the peaceful countryside or the lush vines, this stop provides a quieter, more intimate tasting experience.

Guests have spoken positively about the delicious wines, and the chance to enjoy a panoramic view adds to the memorable nature of this visit. It’s an ideal place for those who appreciate a tranquil atmosphere combined with good wine.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The key to the appeal of this tour lies in its combination of guided education, scenic beauty, and delicious tastings. The guides, as highlighted in reviews, are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, answering questions and sharing stories that deepen the understanding of Virginia’s winemaking traditions.

The snacks provided at both wineries complement the wines well, making the experience feel more like a leisurely outing than just a tasting. If you’re hungry, you can also opt to purchase lunch at the wineries, allowing for more time to relax.

Cost and Value

At $200 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience—transportation, guided tastings, snacks, and visits to two wineries. When considering the cost, think of it as paying for a curated, stress-free day with expert insights and beautiful scenery. The reviews suggest many guests feel the experience offers good value, especially since they get to sample a wide variety of wines and learn about the region’s winemaking craft.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adults over 21 who are interested in wine and want a relaxed, informative day out. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with pets or weapons, due to safety and policy restrictions.

If you enjoy guided experiences, scenic countryside, and tasting a range of local wines, this tour will likely meet your expectations. It’s also a good choice for groups of friends or couples looking for a fun, educational outing that doesn’t require the hassle of planning transportation or winery visits.

Final Thoughts

This Virginia wine tour offers a well-rounded experience blending scenic beauty, expert-guided tastings, and engaging conversation about the region’s winemaking history. The fact that the tour includes transportation from DC is a major plus, removing the stress of driving and parking.

We especially appreciate the diversity of wines available at the two vineyards, allowing even seasoned wine lovers to discover new favorites. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful views make it clear why many guests rate it so highly.

While the price isn’t the cheapest around, the inclusion of guided tours, tastings, snacks, and transport makes it a solid value for a day of indulgence and learning. It’s particularly suited for those who want to experience Virginia’s wine country without the fuss of self-driving or navigating unfamiliar territory.

In sum, if you’re eager to explore Virginia’s wines, enjoy scenic drives, and learn from passionate local vintners, this tour is a dependable, enjoyable choice that will leave you with delightful memories and a few new favorite wines.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from the back entrance of the Marriott Marquis hotel in Washington DC, making it easy and convenient to join.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, usually in the morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the wineries without feeling rushed.

Are snacks provided?
Yes, snacks are included at both vineyard stops, complementing the wine tastings. You also have the option to purchase lunch if you prefer.

Can I bring alcohol on the bus?
No, alcoholic drinks are not allowed in the vehicle. The tour provides tastings at the wineries, and you can enjoy your drinks there.

Is this tour suitable for children or minors?
No, the tour is only for guests 21 and over, as it involves wine tastings and alcohol consumption.

What should I bring?
Bring a valid ID or passport for age verification, and a face mask or protective covering for safety. Comfortable clothing and a camera are also recommended.

In summary, this guided Virginia wine tour from DC offers a delightful blend of scenic views, educational insights, and excellent wines. It’s perfect for curious travelers, wine enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a relaxed day out in beautiful surroundings.

You can check availability for your dates here: