Bluemont Vineyard Elevates the ‘Spirits’ with Sustainable Practices

Bluemont Vineyard, in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Loudoun County, is becoming a frequent destination along the Virginia wine trail. This family-owned and operated vineyard offers visitors tastings, tours, and panoramic vistas of surrounding areas, all while enjoying some of Northern Virginia’s finest locally-produced wines.

Many of the grapes used in Bluemont’s winemaking are harvested directly from their vineyard. Those that are not are procured from other Loudoun County farms, making the wines truly local. Not only are all of the grapes and fruits for the wines grown locally, but Bluemont Vineyard also extends its green initiatives to include sustainable growing practices and recycling waste at the wine shop.

Bluemont Winery Tasting Room

Bluemont’s most popular wine is the 2008 Vidal Blanc, also known as “The Cow,” a slightly sweet variety fermented in stainless steel barrels. In addition to traditional reds and whites, Bluemont offers strawberry, blackberry, and peach dessert wines. Great Country Farms, located just across the street, grows the fruit for the wines, which are available seasonally.

At an elevation of nearly 1000 feet, visitors are treated to more than just luscious wines. The winery offers magnificent views of Tysons Corner, Reston, and Dulles from the tasting room, and on a clear day, guests can even see the Washington Monument. To accompany the wines, Bluemont offers an assortment of regional foods, including includes seven different kinds of Amish farmer’s cheese, imported salami, Rotola and Galbani cheese, infused oils, spreads, tapenades, chips, crackers, chocolate, and warm baguettes provided by a local bakery. On most weekends, visitors can also choose from sandwiches, hot soup, stews, or chowders.

After a tasting, guests may purchase their favorite wines for immediate enjoyment while overlooking the scenic views. Also onsite is “Lore,” Bluemont’s gift shop, filled with one-of-a-kind treasures. At $5 per person, tastings are offered during winery hours: Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Holiday Mondays 11:00am to 6:00pm. Winter hours (November through February) are 12noon to 5:00pm. Private tours and group rates are available, with advance notice and reservations. Children are welcome, and age-appropriate activities are available.