We usually think of Spanish Missionaries as vinifying pioneers in the West, but there has been winemaking in the Thirteen Colonies for over 400 years. In particular, Virginia began in the early 17th century with King James I, expanding with wine-lover Thomas Jefferson, a Francophile for obvious reasons during the Revolutionary War, and continuing with high-quality modern-day winemakers. Currently, Virginia has more than 2500 acres of Vinifera and hybrid varietals across seven AVAs in three regions, making it a great reason to visit. From north to south, wineries are within driving distance from Baltimore and Washington, DC, Norfolk and Virginia Beach, and Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's Plantation near the Shenandoah Mountains.
