Virginia Private Custom Wine Tour from Charlottesville

Virginia Private Custom Wine Tour from Charlottesville is the perfect way to sip your way through the Blue Ridge Mountains’ stunning vineyards without the hassle of driving. For $499 per group (up to 3 people), you get about five hours of personalized wine tasting, scenic views, and expert guidance—crafted for small groups seeking an intimate, relaxed experience. The tour is highly rated (5.0/5 from over 570 reviews), with travelers praising the guides’ knowledge, the picturesque countryside, and the flexibility to choose your stops.

What we love most about this experience is its customizable nature—you decide which wineries to visit and when to enjoy a picnic lunch, making it feel more like a day out with friends than a scripted tour. Plus, the company’s focus on comfort and personal service shines through in reviews, with drivers like Gillie and Bill earning praise for their friendliness, local insights, and professionalism.

A possible consideration is that tasting fees and alcohol are not included in the price, so you’ll want to budget extra for that. Also, since this is a private tour, it’s best suited for small groups or couples who value a tailored experience over large, crowded wineries. If you’re looking to explore Virginia’s wine country in a laid-back, flexible way, this tour could be perfect.

This experience suits those who appreciate personalized service, scenic drives, and wine tasting as a leisurely day trip. It’s especially ideal for celebrating special occasions, romantic getaways, or small groups wanting a curated, authentic taste of Virginia wine country.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: You choose your winery stops and lunch options for a tailored experience.
• Expert guides: Guides like Gillie and Bill earn high praise for their knowledge and personable approach.
• Scenic views: The Blue Ridge Mountains backdrop adds a memorable visual element to your day.
• Flexible itinerary: Visit 3 to 4 wineries at your pace, with tasting recommendations and optional picnic lunch.
• Cost includes transportation and water: No worries about driving, and you’ll stay hydrated with bottled water.
• Additional costs for tastings and food are separate but manageable.

An In-Depth Look at the Virginia Private Custom Wine Tour

When considering a wine tour in Virginia, you’ll want something that balances comfort, flexibility, and authenticity. This private experience from Charlottesville ticks those boxes, wrapping scenic views, expert guiding, and the chance to sample some of Virginia’s best wines all into one package.

Location and Duration

Starting in Charlottesville, a hub rich in history and charm, this tour takes you through the countryside where the Blue Ridge Mountains provide a stunning backdrop. The tour lasts around five hours—perfect for a relaxed afternoon—allowing enough time for multiple winery visits without feeling rushed. The pickup service adds convenience, especially if you’re staying within Charlottesville or nearby.

Transportation and Comfort

One of the biggest advantages is the private transportation—you’ll be driven in a vehicle suited to your group size, ranging from a comfortable sedan to a larger vehicle. The reviews repeatedly praise the quality and comfort of the ride, with travelers noting well-appointed vehicles and attentive drivers. This means no worries about drinking and driving, and you can simply sit back and enjoy the scenery.

The Guides and Their Knowledge

The guides are often described as personable, knowledgeable, and passionate about the local area. For example, Gillie is highlighted for his Southern charm and storytelling, while Bill is appreciated for his helpfulness and insight. Multiple reviews mention how much these guides enhance the experience by sharing stories, ensuring everyone gets photos, and tailoring the day to the group’s interests.

Itinerary Breakdown

• First Stop: Blue Ridge Wine Excursions provides the initial hospitality and sets the tone for an enjoyable day. You’ll begin your journey with a sense of comfort and anticipation.
• Wineries: Expect to visit 3 to 4 wineries, each offering a chance to sample local Virginia wines. The tasting rooms are recommended by your guide, ensuring you’re visiting quality establishments.
• Lunch Options: After your tastings, you have the choice to enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the vineyards, which many reviews highlight as a delightful part of the experience. Alternatively, you can opt for refreshments, depending on your preference.
• Water and Comfort: Throughout the drive, bottled water is provided, helping you stay refreshed amid the day’s activities.

What Travelers Say

• Alison_S described her girls’ weekend as “amazing” thanks to a “professional, knowledgeable” guide named Gillie, emphasizing the personable service.
• Stephanie_H praised the customizable tour and Bill’s helpful guidance.
• LauraK_L appreciated Gillie’s “Southern charm” and storytelling, noting how he took care to take photos and make the day memorable.
• Marilyn_B highlighted the driver’s local knowledge and the overall comfort of the vehicle.

These reviews underscore a consistent theme: the personal touch and local expertise make this tour special. It’s evident that guides aren’t just chauffeurs—they’re storytellers who help deepen your appreciation for the region.

Pricing and Value

While the $499 fee covers transportation, guiding, bottled water, and your custom itinerary, tasting fees and food are extra. This means your total cost depends on how many wineries you visit and what you buy. Given the high praise from reviewers about the quality of wines and the scenery, many find the price to be a fair value, especially considering the personalized service and comfort.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Because it’s a private experience, it’s best suited for small groups, couples, or friends celebrating a special occasion. It’s ideal for travelers who want the freedom to choose their stops and enjoy a relaxed pace without the crowds typical of larger tours.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a private, customizable wine tour like this one from Charlottesville offers a fantastic way to experience Virginia’s renowned wine country. The combination of scenic beauty, expert guides, and personal service ensures a memorable day that can be tailored to your interests.

If you’re someone who appreciates local knowledge, flexibility, and comfort, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s especially suited for small groups looking for a laid-back day of tasting, sightseeing, and enjoying good company.

While you’ll need to budget extra for tastings and lunch, the overall value lies in the personalized experience—a true highlight in Virginia’s scenic wine region. Whether celebrating a special event, enjoying a romantic escape, or simply discovering Virginia’s wines, this tour offers an authentic, relaxed, and beautifully scenic way to do it.

FAQ

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $499 per group, accommodating up to three people, which includes transportation, water, and a guide.

How many wineries will we visit?
You’ll typically visit 3 to 4 wineries, depending on your preferences and the day’s flow.

Are tasting fees included?
No, tasting fees and any alcohol purchased are not included in the tour price, so you’ll want to budget extra.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, giving plenty of time for relaxing visits and scenic drives.

Can I choose where to go?
Yes, this is a customizable tour, so you can select your preferred wineries and enjoy a flexible schedule.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. Travelers report the vehicles are well-appointed and drivers are professional, making the ride enjoyable and relaxing.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable with a casual, outdoor-oriented day. Attire is casual.

Can I have a picnic lunch?
Yes, you can opt for a picnic lunch at one of the vineyards, which many reviews praise as a delightful part of the experience.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, providing a more intimate and tailored experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made roughly 19 days in advance, but early reservations are recommended to secure your preferred date.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this private Virginia wine tour offers a blend of scenic beauty, personal attention, and opportunities to taste some of the best wines Virginia has to offer. It’s about more than just wine; it’s about enjoying a relaxed, scenic day with knowledgeable guides who truly care about your experience.