October: Virginia Wine Month

For twenty years our state has designated October as "Virginia Wine Month." Bruce Schoenfeld, wine editor of Travel & Leisure magazine and contributor to Wine Spectator magazine, includes Virginia among five destinations he recommends for those passionate about wine, food and unique travel experiences. His article, titled Wine-Lover’s Guide: Five Wine Regions to Visit Now, features Chile, Virginia, Spain, Italy and New Zealand. Virginia is home to 130 wineries, ranking it fifth in the nation for the number of wine producers.

Prince Michel Vineyard and Winery, home to the internationally acclaimed Prince Michel and Rapidan River wines, was established in 1982. Although one of the east coast’s largest wineries, their commitment to hospitality and great wine make a visit welcoming and memorable. Beautifully situated among acres of vineyards in the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the winery offers wine tastings and tours of the production area with visual and auditory aids.

Prince Michel wines have obtained internationally acclaimed status due to the efforts of renowned winemaker Brad Hansen, who joined the winery in 1999. Under his direction Prince Michel wines have won more than 400 awards. Hanson is sought after as a judge for international wine competitions and as a consultant for winery design and production (photo below).