An Inviting Taste of Virginia’s Wine and Food Scene
If you’re craving a full sensory experience, the Wine and Culinary Delight Private Tour in Charlottesville offers just that. For about $235 per person, you get approximately five hours of exploring two acclaimed vineyards, each with its own unique charm and history. The tour includes private transportation—so no worries about driving—as well as a friendly, knowledgeable guide who makes the day both educational and fun.
What we love most about this experience is how it seamlessly combines spectacular wine tasting with culinary artistry. At Barboursville, you’ll enjoy tasting flights from their historic cellars paired with seasonal bites on their lush lawns—imagine sipping wine with ruins of Jefferson-era architecture in the background. Then, at Early Mountain, you’ll discover wines crafted with a sense of place by winemaker Maya Hood White, complemented by seasonal dishes that highlight local farms.
A possible consideration? Since food and beverages aren’t included, you’ll want to budget extra for meals or additional wine. Also, this tour focuses mainly on transportation and site visits, so if you’re after a hands-on tasting or cooking class, you might want to look elsewhere.
This private tour is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed yet immersive introduction to Virginia’s wine culture, especially those interested in historic sites and beautiful landscapes. It’s well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone who appreciates great wine paired with good company and authentic surroundings.
Key Points
- Comfort and Convenience: Private transportation and air-conditioned vehicle make for a stress-free day.
- Historic and Scenic Sites: Visit the ruins of Thomas Jefferson’s mansion and enjoy the landscape around each vineyard.
- Quality Wines: Both vineyards focus on high-quality, expressive wines that tell a story of Virginia’s terroir.
- Culinary Pairings: Seasonal dishes are designed to pair beautifully with the wines, elevating the tasting experience.
- Flexible and Private: Only your group participates, making it personalized and intimate.
- Value for the Price: The tour combines scenic beauty, excellent wines, and culinary delights, which justifies the cost for many.
Planning more time in Charlottesville? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Deep Dive into the Experience
Starting Point: Charlottesville at Noon
The tour begins around 12:00 pm, giving you a leisurely start, perfect for those who want to sleep in or explore the town beforehand. Your guide, whether Ben, Jeremiah, or another friendly driver, will pick you up at your designated location in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. This private setup is a significant perk, ensuring your group’s privacy and flexibility.
First Stop: Barboursville Vineyards and Historic Ruins
Barboursville Vineyard is a cornerstone of Virginia’s wine scene, dating back to the early 19th century. The highlight here is the Library 1821, which features a variety of current and older vintages. The wines are served alongside seasonal culinary pairings prepared by skilled chefs—an excellent way to understand how local ingredients enhance wine flavors.
While tasting, you can also take a pleasurable stroll through the lawns surrounding the Landmark Ruins — the remains of Thomas Jefferson’s mansion built for Governor James Barbour. The setting is quite picturesque, offering a mix of history and nature, perfect for memorable photos and a relaxed atmosphere.
Reviewers appreciate how this stop allows plenty of time for both tasting and exploring, with one noting that they enjoyed “a wonderful experience” once they adjusted expectations about food tastings. The two-and-a-half-hour visit offers ample opportunity to soak in the scenery and learn about Virginia’s winemaking heritage.
Second Stop: Early Mountain Vineyards
Next, you’ll head to Early Mountain, a newer but highly regarded winery known for its expression of Virginia’s terroir. The focus here is on wines crafted with purpose, reflecting the land’s unique qualities—winemaker Maya Hood White’s philosophy is evident in their offerings.
The artful approach extends to their seasonal food menu, where Chef Tim Moore and Kristen Hall present dishes that harmonize with the wines—think locally sourced ingredients turned into refined small plates. This elevates your tasting experience from simple wine sipping to a well-rounded culinary journey.
Guests have praised the helpfulness and friendliness of the staff—one reviewer mentions how their driver Jeremiah made everything “easy” and “accessible”. The two-and-a-half-hour visit here allows plenty of time to savor the wines and enjoy the food, making it a relaxing and enriching experience.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Your tour package covers private transportation, air-conditioning, water bottles, and a friendly driver who shares local insights along the way. However, all food and beverages are extra, so plan accordingly if you want to indulge beyond the tastings. This flexibility can be a plus or a drawback, depending on your expectations.
Overall Value and Experience
At $235 per person, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, wine, and food. Given that it’s a private experience, you won’t have to worry about large crowds or rushed visits. Plus, the high ratings—5 out of 5 from all reviewers—speak to the consistency of quality.
Who Will Love This Tour?
The Wine and Culinary Delight Private Tour is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, relaxed way to experience Virginia’s wine scene. If you appreciate historic sites, beautiful landscapes, and carefully crafted wines, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s especially suited for those who like to pair wine with seasonal, local cuisine and prefer a small-group or private setting.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
This tour offers a balanced glimpse into Virginia’s wine and food culture without feeling rushed or commercialized. The visits to historic ruins and scenic vineyards provide not just tastings, but a sense of place and history. The personalized transportation and knowledgeable guides add a layer of comfort and insight that many travelers appreciate.
While it doesn’t include the actual food and drink, the quality of the wineries and the scenic surroundings more than compensate. For those wanting a tasteful, informative, and relaxed day in Virginia’s wine country, this tour delivers on all fronts.
If you’re someone who values authentic experiences, beautiful views, and supporting local craftsmanship, this private tour will be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to budget for extra meals or drinks if you want to indulge further.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, making the day easy and comfortable.
What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about five hours, with approximately two and a half hours spent at each vineyard.
Are food and drinks included?
No, all food and beverages are extra. You can enjoy seasonal culinary pairings at the wineries, but they are not part of the base price.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if plans change.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s mainly geared toward adults interested in wine and food. It’s designed as a private, relaxed experience.
Does the tour have positive reviews?
Absolutely—with a perfect 5-star rating from four reviews, travelers consistently praise the scenic visits, excellent wines, and friendly guides.
What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of historic ruins, scenic vineyards, and seasonal culinary pairings makes it an engaging, multi-sensory experience you’re unlikely to forget.