Exploring West Virginia's Wine Country: Wineries, Itineraries, and Attractions

Exploring West Virginia’s Wine Country: Wineries, Itineraries, and Attractions

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West Virginia, often celebrated for its rugged landscapes and rich cultural heritage, also boasts a burgeoning wine industry that offers unique flavors and experiences. This guide will take you through some of the state’s notable wineries, suggest a three-day itinerary, highlight local attractions, and introduce you to must-attend wine festivals.

West Virginia’s Notable Wineries

Here are some of the wineries you might consider visiting:

Lambert’s Vintage Wines

Weston, WV

A family-owned winery known for its handcrafted wines and beautiful stone winery building, offering a rustic charm and a variety of red and white wines.

Forks of Cheat Winery

Morgantown, WV

Established in 1990, this winery produces a wide range of wines from French hybrid and American grape varieties, set amidst scenic rolling hills.

Kirkwood Winery and Isaiah Morgan Distillery

Summersville, WV

Offers a selection of fruit wines and traditional grape wines, along with distilled spirits, providing a diverse tasting experience.

Daniel Vineyards

Crab Orchard, WV

A family-owned estate winery located over 2,500 feet above sea level, specializing in cold-hardy grape varieties and known for its annual Spring Wine Festival.

Wikipedia

West-Whitehill Winery

Moorefield, WV

Founded in 1981, this winery produces wines from French-American hybrid varietals such as Chambourcin, Seyval, Aurore, and Vidal, with a notable Summer Breeze wine.

Almost Heaven – West Virginia

Potomac Highland Winery

Keyser, WV

Established in 1992, this winery is known for producing fine table wines, including Meritage, Pinot Noir, Chambourcin, Chancellor, and Seyval Blush.

Almost Heaven – West Virginia

West Virginia wines-bottles and glasses

A Three-Day Wine Tasting Itinerary

Day 1: Northern Panhandle and North-Central Region

Morning:
- Forks of Cheat Winery: Start your journey in Morgantown with a visit to this well-established winery. Enjoy a tasting session featuring a variety of wines crafted from French hybrid and American grape varieties.
Afternoon:
- Lambert’s Vintage Wines: Travel to Weston to experience this family-owned winery. Explore their handcrafted wines in a rustic stone building that exudes charm.
Evening:
- Stay in Clarksburg: A central location offering comfortable accommodations and dining options.

Day 2: Eastern Panhandle

Morning:
- West-Whitehill Winery: Head to Moorefield to visit this winery known for its French-American hybrid varietals. Don’t miss their popular Summer Breeze wine.
Afternoon:
- Potomac Highland Winery: Proceed to Keyser to sample fine table wines, including their notable Meritage and Seyval Blush.
Evening:
- Stay in Shepherdstown: Enjoy the historic charm of this town with various lodging and dining options.

Day 3: Southern Region

Morning:
- Daniel Vineyards: Visit this estate winery in Crab Orchard, situated over 2,500 feet above sea level. Explore their selection of wines made from cold-hardy grape varieties.
Afternoon:
- Kirkwood Winery and Isaiah Morgan Distillery: Travel to Summersville to experience a range of fruit wines, traditional grape wines, and distilled spirits.
Evening:
- Stay in Fayetteville: A quaint town offering cozy accommodations and access to outdoor activities.

Attractions and Activities Beyond Wine Tasting

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Outdoor Adventures:

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve: Near Fayetteville, this park offers hiking, white-water rafting, and stunning vistas, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Seneca Rocks: Located in the Monongahela National Forest, it’s a popular spot for rock climbing and hiking, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Cultural and Historical Sites:

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park: A historic town situated at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, rich in history and offering museums, hiking trails, and quaint streets to explore.
Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum: Located in Weston, this historic site offers guided tours exploring the history and architecture of the former psychiatric hospital.

Local Festivals:

West Virginia Wine and Jazz Festival: Held annually in Morgantown, this festival combines regional wines with live jazz performances, creating a vibrant atmosphere for attendees.
Martinsburg Wine Festival: An event that showcases regional wines, local foods, and live entertainment, providing a delightful experience for wine enthusiasts.

Conclusion

West Virginia wines-bottles and glasses

West Virginia’s wine country offers a unique blend of traditional and innovative winemaking, set against the backdrop of the state’s natural beauty and rich history. Whether you’re a seasoned wine aficionado or a curious traveler, the Mountain State’s wineries provide a welcoming and enriching experience. From the handcrafted wines at Lambert’s Vintage Wines to the high-altitude offerings of Daniel Vineyards, there’s a diverse range of flavors to explore. Coupled with the state’s outdoor adventures, cultural sites, and vibrant festivals, a wine tour through West Virginia promises not just a trip, but a memorable journey into the heart of Appalachia.

Note: Before planning your visit, it’s advisable to check the operating hours and reservation requirements of the wineries and attractions mentioned, as they may vary seasonally or due to special events.

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