Virginia's ascendance as a recognized, high-quality winemaking region continues in 2023 as the Charlottesville area and Monticello American Viticultural Area (AVA) are named Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast magazine.
The honor was announced by state and local officials at the new (and beautiful) Southwest Mountain Vineyards in Keswick on November 8. The Charlottesville area was just one of five wine regions nominated around the world and the only nominee in North America.
In addition to the regional award, two Monticello Wine Trail members' wines were included in Wine Enthusiast's Top 100 Wines for 2023: Barboursville Vineyards 2019 Octagon (#56) Keswick Vineyards 2021 Chardonnay (#94).
The Monticello Wine Trail includes more than 40 vineyards within a 25-miles radius of Charlottesville, and regularly receives major accolades in the annual Virginia Governor’s Cup wine competition, and in 2023 won nearly half of all the gold medals awarded.
Wine Enthusiast’s executive media team made its winning selections based on many factors, including impact on consumers and trade in the wine space, company or brand vision, and trendsetting. The Wine Star Awards celebrate the innovation of individuals and entities that have significantly contributed to the success of the wine and alcoholic beverage world.
The Charlottesville-Albemarle County Convention & Visitor's Bureau is leveraging this major accomplishment through Historic Vines New Roots, a marketing initiative which tells the story of the region’s rich history through the lens of wine. This effort focuses on the destination’s acclaimed wineries and strives to make wine more accessible, inclusive, and approachable for everyone. By showcasing the region as a welcoming and inclusive destination for all, the Charlottesville area will continue to attract new audiences and wine lovers for years to come.
See the Monticello AVA Boundaries here.
