Wine lovers know that October is Virginia Wine Month. And there’s a good reason we celebrate it.
With more than 280 wineries in our state, spread across seven American Viticultural Areas, Virginia is now the 5th largest wine producer in the US!
From the Shenandoah Valley to Charlottesville, Richmond, and north to Loudon County and D.C. you will not be disappointed with these award-winning vineyards.
Virginia Wine Month Closer to Home
Here in the Shenandoah Valley, we’ve got vineyards that are an integral part of Virginia’s growing award-winning heritage. 
One that comes to mind for us is Barren Ridge Vineyards. The wine is, of course, exceptional but we also like the way that John and Shelby Higgs celebrate good wine!
Barren Ridge is the Higgs’ family’s old apple orchard. The couple converted the apple barn into a state-of-the-art winery, carefully preserving the original structure, as well as the wood beams.
Music and Friendship, A Perfect Complement to Fine Wine
Barren Ridge Vineyard certainly believes that good wine should be shared but people should enjoy their surroundings while sharing!
That’s why, year round, they stay open late on Fridays and Saturdays and entertain with a live musical act. A solo musician performs on the patio or the tasting room.
Wine lovers mix and mingle, enjoying each other’s company, as well as the exceptional wine.
During the warmer months, you can bring a picnic dinner to eat while watching a magnificent sunset. The event runs from 5:30-8:30 p.m.
When the weather turns chilly, curl up in front of the fireplace in their tasting room. In the winter, the event runs from 4:30-7:30 p.m.
Then every 3rd Friday, the vineyard kicks it up a notch with Third Fridays. Admission to Firelight Friday or Sunsets at the Vineyard is just $10 per guest and covers the music and a souvenir wine glass, yours to take home.
Plus, a food truck is available throughout the evening. Or, you can bring your own picnic basket. Your choice!
It’s fun, entertaining, and an excellent way to end the week. If you haven’t been to any of Barren Ridge Vineyards’ events, we highly recommend them. John and Shelby know how to treat their guests!
Make your reservations with the Iris Inn right here. We treat guests like royalty, too!