Ingleside Vineyards in Oak Grove, Va., hosts its annual harvest celebration on Oct. 18, including music, crafts, winemaking demonstrations and a tour of the vineyard for $15.
(Kate Barrett/ABC)
If you do decide to venture out for a stress-free weekend reprieve, autumn weekends are an ideal time. Though harvest came a bit early this year -- "the grapes really tell us when to pick 'em," Westbrook explained -- October is a great month to visit.
"People like taking that fall drive through the country," Westbrook said. "It's a beautiful time, particularly in Virginia, to sort of sit out on the porch, take in the crisp fall weather and have a glass of wine."
At Vault Field Vineyards in Kinsale, owner Keith Meenan said now is the time for travelers to get out and see the fall foliage "before they have to hunker down."
Some attractions sprinkled from north to south include:
Potomac Point Vineyard & Winery
275 Decatur Road, Stafford, Va., 22554, 540-446-2266
Tasting: Starting at $5 for eight wines and olive oil bar
The northernmost stop on the Northern Neck Wine Trail, Potomac Point is about 30 miles south of Washington, D.C. Arrive on Friday evening and enjoy live music in the courtyard for $5. Or enjoy an afternoon lunch from the winery's bistro and relax in the courtyard or picnic area. The winery also offers October specials, ranging from 10 percent off three bottles to 20 percent off for a case, as well as food and wine pairings during the weekends for $22.99, according to owner Cindi Causey.
Oak Crest Vineyard & Winery
8215 Oak Crest Drive, King George, Va., 22485, 540-663-2813
Tasting: Complimentary
The Brandts family officially started selling wine at the vineyard in 2003 in a move that co-owner Dorothy Brandts describes now as "a hobby that went astray." Today, Oak Crest Vineyard and Winery sells 11 wines, cheese and crackers, as well as artwork from local artists, including Brandts'. Relax by the patio firepit with a glass of wine or enjoy a complimentary tasting.
