Wine almost always comes to mind when we think about Valentine’s Day—whether you are looking for the perfect bottle for toasting with your candle-lit dinner, want to plan an afternoon in romantic wine country at a vineyard, or perhaps are looking for that special vintage that takes you back to the early days of a relationship. And, what better place to celebrate than in our local wine country, where you can always find the perfect award-winning local wine for any occasion.
In fact, our local vineyards can do much more than just serve as the source for wine. They also make for a lovely location for a romantic outing. Plan a picturesque afternoon at a local vineyard and stroll the vines hand-in-hand. Or, attend one of the many pairing events at a local vineyard and try something new with your beau.
Tip: The vineyard and Blue Ridge Mountain vistas make for an idyllic backdrop for gift giving. Spread out a picnic blanket among the vines (on warmer days) or cozy up by a tasting room fire for an intimate gift exchange. We suggest gifting something locally and/or hand-crafted like the beautiful Ana Cavalheiro ring given at a special Barboursville Vineyards outing below.
If you prefer a more elegant Valentine’s Day, consider attending a local vineyards’ multi-course wine-paired dinner, like the Valentine’s Day Celebration at Barboursville Vineyards, and enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner with exquisite wine pairings. Some area vineyards even offer quaint cottages, inns and bed & breakfasts that overlook the rolling vines, perfect for turning a romantic evening into a mini getaway or staycation. The couple below spent a romantic weekend at Barboursville Vineyards, strolling along the vines, visiting The Ruins and staying at The 1804 Inn (a must-visit historic inn with luxury suites). Looking for an elegant gift fitting for a vineyard affair? Visit local Schwarzschild Keller & George Jewelers for timeless pieces like the stunning layered “Siviglia” necklaces completing the woman’s chic look below.
No matter how you choose to celebrate Valentine’s Day, there are many local ways to make it memorable in Virginia’s romantic wine country. Here are a few of our top vineyard picks:
- Valentine’s Day Celebration at Barboursville Vineyards
- San Valentine Salsa Night Party at CrossKeys Vineyards
- Wine & Chocolate Pairing at Horton Vineyards
- Valentine’s in the Vineyard at Early Mountain Vineyards
Looking for other ways to celebrate? Check out these local ideas:
- Plan a hot chocolate date to MarieBette Café and Bakery—their menu features a different decadent flavor each day in February.
- Enjoy dinner and a show at Boar’s Head Resort’s LOL! Comedy Weekend.
- See a showing of the classic romantic comedy True Romance at The Paramount Theater.
You can also check the Charlottesville Welcome Book website for a calendar of more exciting local events, as well as find inspiration for a romantic weekend at Barboursville Vineyards in Wine & Country Life, Book 5. To complete your plans, stop by the Charlottesville Wine & Country Shop for local wines, artisan-made jewelry and more perfect gift ideas. ~
Image Credits:
Photography: Rachel May Photography
Venue, Catering & Wine: Barboursville Vineyards
Florals: Tourterelle Floral Design
Clothing: Verdigris & Brooks Brothers
Jewelry: Ana Cavalheiro Fine Jewelry and Schwarzschild Keller & George Jewelers
Table Setting & Chairs: MS Events
Hair: Brianna B. Adams LLC
Makeup: Gohar Makeup
Female Model: Noelle S., Modelogic
Male Model: Patrick K., Modelogic
