There’s something about October in Virginia—the air turns crisp, the hillsides glow with color, and vineyards hum with the rhythm of harvest. It’s also the perfect moment to raise a glass to Virginia Wine Month, a statewide celebration of the flavors, people, and places that make our wine country so special.
Start with a Trail
If you’re wondering where to start, Virginia’s free mobile tasting passes make exploring easy. Each trail brings its own flavor of discovery:
- Gold Medal Wine Trail – celebrate award-winning wines and earn prizes
- Virginia Cider Trail – sip through the over 30 cideries statewide
- Norton Wine Trail – uncover Virginia’s oldest varietal
✨ October Bonus: This month, earn double points with every check-in on the Gold Medal Wine Trail. Each visit adds up to more rewards and prizes, making October the ideal time to explore.
Gather for Harvest Party
On Saturday, October 18, Virginia will come together for Harvest Party, our homegrown holiday that toasts local agriculture and the community across the Commonwealth. From dinners to festive tastings, it’s a celebration that brings everyone to the table.
Harvest Party Recipe Contest
This year, you can also join the fun with the Harvest Party Recipe Contest. Submit your favorite seasonal dish that pairs with Virginia wine for the chance to win a gift card for a meal at:
Entries close October 12, 2025. Submit your recipe for a chance to win and be featured on @vawine!
Harvest Party Cookbook
Introducing the new Harvest Party Cookbook, perfect for planning your own festive gathering at home and bringing the flavors of Virginia Wine Month to your table. This cookbook is a collection of 20+ recipes sourced from Virginia’s wine country, crafted to pair beautifully with the wines from the same soils.
Discover Something New By the Glass
Virginia’s producers offer something for every palate, from classic pours to unexpected discoveries. This month is the perfect time to branch out – try a new style of wine, pick up a local cider or mead, or explore varietals that highlight Virginia’s unique character.
To make it even easier, select restaurants and wine bars are featuring Virginia Wine by the glass throughout October. It’s a chance to discover new favorites while supporting the winemakers who bring these stories to life.
Find Virginia By the Glass near you.
Share a Toast
Wherever you raise your glass this October, at a mountaintop tasting room, around a harvest table, or in your own backyard, you are part of Virginia Wine Month’s story. Snap a photo and share your story with @vawine and #vawinemonth.
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