Meet the 26 Businesses Championing Virginia Wine

Some of the best introductions to Virginia Wine happen beyond the vineyard. They’re found on restaurant wine lists, in neighborhood bottle shops, across the table at a wine dinner and in conversations with someone who knows just what to recommend.

This year, the Stewards of Virginia Wine Awards recognize 26 outstanding restaurants, retailers and hospitality partners helping bring Virginia Wine to more tables, shelves and conversations across the Commonwealth and beyond. This year’s recipients once again include businesses outside Virginia, highlighting support for Virginia Wine beyond state lines.

What Makes a Steward?

From thoughtful selections and by-the-glass offerings to staff education and creative programming, these businesses make Virginia Wine an important part of the customer experience. Now in its second year, the program received twice as many nominations as its inaugural year, reflecting growing enthusiasm for the awards and the businesses they recognize.

Honorees were selected following nominations from wineries, distributors, consumers and trade partners. An industry panel evaluated applications across five areas: wine list presence, consumer promotion, creativity, staff education and overall commitment to Virginia Wine, with additional consideration for exceptional community impact and advocacy.

Meet the 2026 Stewards of Virginia Wine

Six recipients also earned a Judges’ Award, recognizing the highest-scoring businesses for their excellence in promoting Virginia Wine. Join us in celebrating the 26 businesses recognized as 2026 Stewards of Virginia Wine.

2026 Stewards of Virginia Wine Recipients 

Visit the 2026 Stewards

Looking for a new place to enjoy Virginia Wine? Let this year’s Stewards inspire the next dinner reservation, shopping trip or evening out. Order a glass of Virginia Wine with dinner. Ask a wine shop about the Virginia producers they’re excited to share. Explore a new pairing, attend a tasting or discover a bottle to bring home.

Whether visiting a neighborhood favorite or discovering a new destination, supporting these businesses means supporting the people who make Virginia Wine part of the experience.

A Commitment Worth Celebrating

Through thoughtful wine selections, memorable experiences and a shared commitment to Virginia producers, this year’s 26 Stewards of Virginia Wine are helping introduce more people to what’s grown and made in Virginia.

Their recognition celebrates the important role restaurants, retailers and hospitality partners play in expanding the presence and appreciation of Virginia Wine, both within the Commonwealth and beyond.