Private Charlottesville Area Wine Tour

A Personalized 5-Hour Private Wine Tour in Charlottesville

The Private Charlottesville Area Wine Tour offered by Ole Crow Tours provides a flexible, intimate experience for wine lovers exploring Virginia’s Monticello Wine Region. Priced at $235 per person, this tour lasts approximately five hours, making it a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy several tastings without feeling rushed. The tour departs from Charlottesville, VA, at 12:00 pm, with private transportation included, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout the day.

What makes this tour stand out is the ability to personalize your stops. Whether you want to visit famous vineyards or explore lesser-known wineries, the knowledgeable guides are happy to tailor the experience to your preferences. With an average booking window of 20 days in advance, this tour is well-suited for travelers seeking a private, relaxed, and informative wine adventure. Do note that all food and beverages are excluded, so you can plan your own picnic or additional tastings if desired.

Key Points

• Private, customizable 5-hour tour exploring Charlottesville’s Monticello Wine Region
• Visits three wineries: Merrie Mill Farm, Barboursville Vineyards, and Southwest Mountains Vineyards
• Includes private transportation and air-conditioned vehicle for comfort
• Cost is $235 per person, with booking typically 20 days ahead
• Tastings are free, but all food and drinks are not included
• Guides are friendly and knowledgeable, with a reputation for personalized service

The Charm of Merrie Mill Farm and Vineyard

The tour begins at Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard in Keswick, VA. Founded by Guy and Elizabeth Pelly, this vineyard emphasizes warm, approachable hospitality in a delightful setting. The tasting room features a unique atmosphere designed to inspire and entertain visitors. The admission is free, and the stay lasts around 1 hour and 40 minutes.

This stop offers a relaxed vibe, making it an ideal introduction to Virginia wine. The setting encourages casual conversations about wine and the farm’s approach to hospitality. It’s a less formal experience compared to larger estates, perfect for those wanting a friendly, personal touch at the start of their wine day.

Exploring Barboursville Vineyards and Historic Ruins

Next, the tour visits Barboursville Vineyards, a historic estate with scenic lawns and ruins that add a sense of history to the experience. The estate’s Discovery Tasting Room hosts continuous tastings of a broad range of current vintages, while the Library 1821 offers seasonal flights that include older vintages and food pairings.

Guests are encouraged to enjoy their wines on the estate’s expansive lawns, with views of the historic Landmark Ruins of Thomas Jefferson’s mansion nearby. This stop lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, blending wine tasting with a chance to stroll around the estate and appreciate both the wine and the historic architecture.

Sampling Virginia Terroir at Southwest Mountains Vineyards

The final stop is Southwest Mountains Vineyards, where the winemaking team crafts wines that highlight the extraordinary terroir of the Monticello AVA. Known for their thoughtfully crafted wines, this vineyard produces bottles perfect for celebrations or gifting.

The wine tasting here lasts about 1 hour and 40 minutes and provides an opportunity to sample wines directly from the source, with a focus on Virginia’s unique terroir. This stop adds a local touch to the experience, showcasing the region’s distinctive wine styles.

The Logistics of the Tour Experience

This private tour starts at 12:00 pm in Charlottesville, with the guide leading your group in an air-conditioned vehicle. The pickup service ensures a smooth start, and the entire journey is designed for comfort and ease. The small group size promotes a more intimate experience, allowing for personalized recommendations and relaxed conversations.

Since food and beverages are not included, guests can choose to bring snacks or plan for additional wine tastings on their own. The tour is suitable for most travelers, and the booking window of around 20 days helps ensure availability during popular months.

Comparing This Tour to Other Virginia Wine Experiences

Unlike larger, more structured wine tours, this private version emphasizes flexibility and personalization. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the friendly atmosphere, making it especially appealing for small groups or couples who want a customized experience. The stops at Merrie Mill Farm and Barboursville are notable for their atmosphere and historic significance, while Southwest Mountains offers a focus on local terroir.

This tour stands apart by offering free tastings at each location and the chance to visit less crowded wineries if preferred. It is an excellent choice for travelers who value personal attention and wish to control their winery visits.

The Value of a Private Wine Tour in Charlottesville

At $235 per person, this tour provides a premium, tailored experience that includes private transportation and friendly guides. The five-hour duration balances enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. The free tastings add to the value, and the personalized nature makes this a memorable way to explore Virginia’s wine country.

While food and additional drinks are not included, guests have the freedom to plan their own picnic or extra tastings. The flexibility and customization options make this tour appealing for special occasions or wine enthusiasts wanting a more exclusive experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Private Charlottesville Wine Tour?

This private tour is ideal for small groups, couples, or friends seeking an intimate, flexible way to visit multiple wineries. Those interested in historic estates, Virginia terroir, or personalized itineraries will find this experience particularly rewarding. Because it’s booked in advance and costs $235 per person, it suits travelers who value comfort and exclusivity.

The tour’s duration and stops are well-suited for relaxed exploration without overloading the day, making it perfect for first-time visitors or seasoned wine lovers wanting a customized tasting adventure.

The Sum Up: A Focused, Friendly Way to Explore Charlottesville Wineries

The Private Charlottesville Area Wine Tour offers a personalized, five-hour journey through some of Virginia’s top wineries. The friendly guides, free tastings, and flexible stops make it a strong choice for those who appreciate intimate wine experiences with a local touch. The scenic stops at Barboursville and the historic ruins add depth to the tasting journey, while the comfortable transportation keeps the focus on relaxation and enjoyment.

While food and additional drinks are not included, the customizable nature of the tour means you can tailor the experience to your preferences. This tour is best suited for small groups or couples who want a private, informal, and knowledgeable guide to help discover Virginia’s unique wine spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately five hours, starting at 12:00 pm.

What are the stops included?
The tour visits Merrie Mill Farm & Vineyard, Barboursville Vineyards, and Southwest Mountains Vineyards.

Are tastings included in the price?
Yes, tastings at each vineyard are free. However, all food and beverages are not included.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour offers personalization options to choose preferred vineyards or request recommendations.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and the private transportation makes it comfortable for a range of mobility levels.