Vintage Loudoun: Wine Country with a Heritage

Meet Doug Fabbioli. He’s a winemaker. Those who meet him don’t forget him. He’s known for getting you to try wines you may not be familiar with, but his infectious style will inspire you to be adventurous. Even though Doug has lived and trained in vinifera in California , he has chosen to grow his grapes and produce his wine here in Loudoun County , Virginia . He was attracted to Loudoun’s soil, geography, and other conditions that are perfect here for growing high quality grapes. He was also attracted to Loudoun’s community of winery owners who love to share their passion for wine with visitors.

To Doug, winemaking is an art. Forget science. Let Doug worry about that. All you’ll taste is good wine. It’s almost as good as the settings they’re made in. And Doug will prove it to you. He’ll enthusiastically introduce you to a glass of Viognier on a sun-drenched terrace with exquisite views of the Blue Ridge mountains . Or, savor a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon by a rustic and cozy fireplace. Discover the Norton, made from a native American grape, while you excite your palate with a fresh-grilled meal on a stone patio.

Recognized as one of the “Five (Wine) Regions to Visit Now” by Travel + Leisure Magazine, Virginia ’s reputation as wine country continues to grow, with Loudoun’s 15 wineries leading the way. Founded in 1757, Loudoun’s rich heritage and agricultural past yield a vintage of fine country sophistication and style. Its scenic backdrop is the stunning Virginia Piedmont. Follow stacked-stone fences lining elegant horse farms. Explore country roads leading adventurers through the Americana of our charming and historic towns and villages. To top it all off, Loudoun is just 25 miles from Washington , D.C.

With four seasons to enjoy, Loudoun’s great to visit year-round. Why not plan your visit around one of our many wine festivals and events? Laugh as you compete at a thrilling grape-stomping competition. Enjoy bluegrass music performed by award-winning local bands. Go local with pick-your-own fresh strawberries or blackberries as the perfect accompaniment for your tasting. Savor ethnic delicacies made from long-guarded Old European family recipes. Or enjoy a cozy wine dinner by candlelight surrounded by stacked oak barrels and the aroma of wine.

But wine is only part of the story. Here you’ll discover destination restaurants set in restored grain mills, locally grown and supported farm-to-table restaurants, taverns and pubs, and even an award-winning barbecue joint housed in a tiny tin-can structure once the fuselage of a WWII bomber. Rest assured there’s plenty of options for provisions and sustenance.

So why not come for a visit, and say hello to Doug, too. He’ll be just waiting to give you a taste of what makes our destination a must-visit on any foodie or wine connoisseur’s list. But watch out, his enthusiasm may get the best of you. To plan your visit, go to VisitLoudoun.travel. Cheers!