This Is the Oldest Wine Region in the U.S.—and No, It's Not in California

['Taryn White', 'Taryn White Is A D.C.-Based Travel Writer Who Covers A Wide Range Of Topics', 'Including Family Travel', 'Hotels', 'Food', 'Aviation', 'Beaches', 'Historical', 'Cultural Topics', 'Wellness Travel. She Can Often Be Spotted Around The World With Her Husband'] Travel + Leisure | Travel Reviews, News, Guides and Tips 2025-09-24 04:53:44

As the oldest wine region in the U.S., the state’s wine legacy dates back to 1619, when the Jamestown Assembly passed “Acte Twelve,” requiring colonists to plant imported European grapevines. A cornerstone of Virginia’s wine renaissance is Early Mountain Vineyards, established in 2012 by AOL co-founder Steve Case and his wife, Jean. Whether you’re stopping by the vineyard for the day or staying the weekend, there are a variety of wine experiences to enjoy. In 2024, Wine Spectator awarded the winery the “Award of Excellence” for its outstanding wine and culinary experience, while Hood White received “Winemaker of the Year” nominations for Wine Enthusiast’s Wine Star Awards and VinePair’s Next Wave Awards. Those looking to explore the region further can visit more than 40 wineries in the Monticello American Viticulture Area, named Wine Enthusiast's “Wine Region of the Year” in 2023.