Gold Medal Wines, One Glass at a Time

Sip Virginia This Season

As Virginia’s vineyards burst into bloom, wine country comes alive with color and warmth. Patios are open, the vines are growing, and the season is perfect for a scenic drive or a sunny afternoon stop. However you choose, now’s the time to raise a glass to Virginia wine.

This time of year, make it your mission to sip Virginia. That could mean ordering a local pour at your favorite restaurant, picking up a bottle from a nearby shop, or heading straight to the source with a visit to a winery and find wines worth celebrating.

Follow the Gold: Download the Gold Medal Wine Trail

Not sure where to begin? Let the Gold Medal Wine Trail be your guide.

This free mobile pass highlights the wineries behind the top-scoring wines in the 2025 Virginia Governor’s Cup® Competition. These gold medal winners were selected by a panel of expert judges—and now they’re waiting for you to taste them for yourself.

As you visit participating wineries, check in using the pass to unlock exclusive offers, earn points, and redeem them for prizes. With more than 80 award-winning wineries across the state, the trail gives you a fresh reason to sip in every direction.

With the Gold Medal Wine Trail, every glass you enjoy gets you closer to exclusive rewards. It’s an easy way to turn a casual outing into a tasting adventure. Check out the views along the trail and sign up today:

Why Now’s the Time to Sip

As the days grow longer and the pace of the season slows, Virginia’s wine regions shine. The tasting rooms are lively but relaxed, and each visit brings a new opportunity to explore what’s fresh, local, and award-winning.

Here’s what makes this time of year ideal for sipping local:

• New vintages are making their debut, offering a first taste of what’s happening in Virginia
  
• Patio season is thriving, with open-air views and vineyard backdrops
  
• Seasonal events—from live music to food pairings—add extra flavor to your visit
  

Start Sipping Local

From bold reds to crisp whites and everything in between, Virginia’s award-winning wines are closer than you think. Look for Virginia on menus, browse your local wine shop for homegrown bottles, or plan a weekend getaway to sip straight from the vineyard.

However you enjoy it, raise a glass to this vibrant season—and to wines that reflect the spirit of Virginia.

Download the free Gold Medal Wine Trail pass and start your sipping journey today.