If you’ve spent any time exploring Virginia wine country, you’ve probably heard whispers about Afton Mountain Vineyards. Tucked between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Rockfish Gap, it’s one of those places that manages to feel grand and cozy at the same time. You’re surrounded by soaring peaks, manicured vines, and one of the most elegant tasting rooms in the region—but it still feels like you’re just hanging out at a friend’s really beautiful place in the mountains.

The first time I visited, I showed up on a Sunday in October when the leaves were on fire. The fog had just lifted off the mountains and a light breeze was moving through the vines. I remember thinking, “How is this not Italy?” And then I took my first sip of their Tannat and forgot what I was even trying to compare it to. This place is something all its own.

Let me walk you through it.

The Story of Afton Mountain Vineyards

Afton Mountain Vineyards is one of Virginia’s oldest farm wineries—first planted in 1978, back when “Virginia wine” was still something people raised eyebrows at. Today, it’s one of the most respected estates in the Monticello AVA, known for producing serious wines with European flair and a distinctly Virginia heart.

It changed hands in 2009 when Elizabeth and Tony Smith took over, and they’ve taken things to a whole new level. The Smiths invested heavily in the vineyard and facilities—replanting vines, bringing in state-of-the-art equipment, and building one of the most beautiful (and functional) tasting rooms in the region. Their motto says it best: “Grapes don’t grow in ugly places.”

The Setting & Atmosphere

Let’s talk about that setting. The tasting room sits right in the middle of the vineyard—literally surrounded on all sides by vines, with the Blue Ridge Mountains rising up behind them. It’s like being in a valley within a valley, and the views are so good they almost feel fake.

There’s a huge wraparound patio with shaded seating, a modern indoor lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows, and a stunning view of the property's private lake. If you’ve got a sunny afternoon and nowhere to be, this is the place to plant yourself. The vibe is elegant but relaxed—you’ll see folks in sundresses and wide-brim hats alongside regulars in hiking boots and fleece vests.

The Tasting Pavilion is especially noteworthy—a gorgeous glass-enclosed space with climate control, lounge-style couches, and seating areas that make you want to settle in and stay awhile. It’s cozy in winter and cool in summer, with big sky views no matter the season.

Outside, the spacious seating layout means tables are well spaced, perfect for families with kids or anyone bringing a leashed dog. You never feel like you’re on top of another group—it’s peaceful and well thought out.

Wine club members also get exclusive access to the Club House, the vineyard’s former tasting room turned private lounge. It’s an intimate space with warm wood finishes, a private indoor bar, and plenty of charm.

When I want to impress out-of-town friends or treat myself to a “just because” afternoon, this is where I go.

The Crowd

You’ll find a mix of people at Afton Mountain: couples celebrating anniversaries, locals escaping for a glass of rosé, and the occasional bridal party keeping things classy. It’s not rowdy or overrun, which I love. They keep large groups to a minimum and generally require reservations for parties of 8 or more, which helps preserve that peaceful vibe.

It’s not a place for beer pong energy—and thank goodness for that.

The Wine: What to Try

Afton Mountain Vineyards makes estate-grown, European-style wines with an emphasis on structure, balance, and age-worthiness. They grow 11 varietals, and their winemaker (Damien Blanchon, originally from the Rhône Valley in France) brings a beautifully restrained, old-world sensibility to everything he touches.

My favorites? Here’s the short list:

• Albariño – Bright, crisp, and citrusy, with a little salinity. It’s rare in Virginia and done exceptionally well here.

• Cabernet Franc – Herbaceous and lively with a peppery finish. One of the best expressions of this grape in the state.

• Tannat – Big, bold, and full of black fruit. I bring a bottle home every time.

• Tradition – A Bordeaux-style red blend that changes slightly year to year but always delivers finesse and complexity.

• Petit Manseng – Lush, tropical, and just the right amount of sweet. A dream with spicy food or cheese.

Tastings are $20 and include a thoughtfully curated flight of five wines. Glasses and bottles are available as well—and trust me, you’ll want to take something home.

Food & Gifts

While there’s no full kitchen on site, Afton Mountain Vineyards offers a small but elevated selection of snacks—think local cheeses, artisan crackers, and house-cured olives. You’re also welcome to bring your own picnic, which I often do (especially with out-of-town guests).

Inside the tasting room, there’s also a great selection of gifts: branded glasses, candles, tote bags, and beautifully packaged wines that make excellent presents—or personal treats.

Events & Experiences

Afton Mountain Vineyards doesn’t host a ton of events, but what they do offer is thoughtful and elegant:

• Private Tastings & Tours – Available by reservation and often led by staff with deep knowledge of the vineyard and winemaking process. You’ll tour the barrel room, walk the vines, and taste through library vintages or reserve labels.

• Sunset Wine Evenings – A few times a year, they keep the tasting room open late for golden hour sipping with a local musician or pop-up food option. I’ve watched the sun dip below the mountains with a glass of Tradition in hand more than once, and it’s always magic.

• Wine Club Events – If you’re a member, expect pick-up parties, new-release tastings, and special access to limited-production wines.

Getting There & Hours

Afton Mountain Vineyards is located at 234 Vineyard Lane, Afton, VA 22920. It’s right off the Route 151 Wine and Beer Trail and just a few minutes from two of my other local favorites, Blue Mountain Brewery and Veritas Vineyards. If you’re coming from Charlottesville, it’s about a 25-minute drive—easy and scenic the whole way.

Hours:

Monday: 11 AM - 5 PM
Tuesday through Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 11 AM - 5 PM
Friday: 11 AM - 6 PM
Saturday: 11 AM - 7:30 PM
Sunday: 11 AM - 5 PM

Reservations are highly recommended on weekends, especially during fall foliage season or holiday weekends.

My Personal Tips

Here’s everything I’ve learned from years of visiting Afton Mountain:

• Visit on a weekday if you can. It’s much quieter, and you’ll get more time to chat with staff about the wines.

• Pack a picnic. They allow outside food, and there are so many beautiful spots to spread out a lunch. I like to grab sandwiches from Greenwood Grocery on the way.

• Don’t skip the Albariño. It’s one of the few vineyards around that grows it—and it’s always my summer go-to.

• Wear layers. The weather up there can shift quickly—especially in spring and fall. I’ve been caught in everything from sun to snow in a single day.

• Take the back roads home. If you have time, head back via Route 610 through the mountains. It’s one of the prettiest drives in Virginia.

• Ask about library wines. Occasionally, they open something special that’s not on the menu—especially if you’re doing a private tasting or seem particularly curious.

• Don’t bring a huge group. They keep things small for a reason. Eight or fewer is best.

• Visit during leaf season. Late October is jaw-droppingly beautiful. Bring a camera—and a light jacket.

• Consider joining the wine club. The perks are legit, and it’s one of the few clubs where I actually finish every bottle.

• Look for the llamas. Occasionally, the vineyard borrows a neighbor’s llamas to graze the cover crop between the vines. It’s as delightful as it sounds.

Where to Stay Nearby

Want to stay close to the vines? Afton Mountain Vineyards actually offers five private cottages right on the property—four one-bedroom units and a two-bedroom guest house. Each includes a full kitchen, private deck, and all the comforts of home, making them perfect for a weekend wine escape. Waking up among the grapevines and strolling to your tasting is one of the best ways to do Virginia wine country.

Other great options nearby:

Afton Mountain Inn – Just 5 minutes away, this boutique inn is loaded with charm and amenities: a resort-style pool, two hot tubs, fire pits, a nature trail, and sweeping mountain views. Ideal for couples or small groups.

Afton Clubhouse – A stylish 3-bedroom vacation rental with a hot tub, fire pit, shuffleboard, and plenty of space to hang. Perfect for girls’ weekends or birthday getaways.

Afton Farmhouse – Big family trip? This one sleeps up to 11, with a bunk room, huge kitchen, fire pit, and tons of room to relax both inside and out.

You really can’t go wrong with any of the lodging options above. Thanks to their ideal central location, each makes a great home base for exploring Route 151’s top wineries and breweries.

20 Little-Known Facts About Afton Mountain Vineyards

1. First vines planted in 1978—making it one of Virginia’s oldest.

2. The tasting room is surrounded on all sides by vines—a 360-degree vineyard view.

3. The vineyard sits at 1,200 feet elevation—ideal for slow grape ripening.

4. Winemaker Damien Blanchon trained in France and brings a European touch.

5. The Albariño vines came from a small grower in Galicia, Spain.

6. Afton uses gravity flow winemaking—gentler on the grapes.

7. The lake on site provides irrigation and a beautiful backdrop for photos.

8. They bottle a Tannat that rivals anything coming out of South America.

9. All wines are estate-grown—nothing brought in from other vineyards.

10. Their wine club ships four times a year, with optional customization.

11. The Smiths personally helped design the modern tasting room.

12. Afton was the first Virginia winery I visited where I joined the club on the spot.

13. They allow picnics—but not pets, due to the proximity of farm animals and the pristine setting.

14. The vineyard hosts yoga sessions during warm months (watch their social media page).

15. They offer small-production, barrel-select wines only available on-site.

16. There’s a family of bluebirds that nests in the vines every spring.

17. Afton’s Chardonnay is fermented in French oak and stainless steel—best of both worlds.

18. On clear days, you can see Wintergreen Resort in the distance.

19. They were one of the first vineyards in the area to plant Petit Manseng.

20. “Grapes don’t grow in ugly places” is their motto—and boy, do they prove it.

Final Take

Afton Mountain Vineyards is a must-stop if you love wine, views, and a little bit of elegance with your escape. It’s a peaceful, polished spot with world-class wine and a setting that rivals any in Napa—or anywhere else, really.

This is one of the places I always recommend when someone says, “I want to go somewhere really special.” And every time, it delivers.

FAQ – Everything You Need to Know About Afton Mountain Vineyards

Where is Afton Mountain Vineyards located?
You’ll find it at 234 Vineyard Lane, Afton, VA 22920—tucked right off Route 151. It’s about a 25-minute scenic drive from Charlottesville and just minutes from other top spots like Veritas Vineyards, Blue Mountain Brewery, and the Route 151 trail.

When are they open?
Afton Mountain Vineyards is open five days a week—perfect for a long weekend wine escape or a lazy Monday afternoon.

Monday: 11 AM - 5 PM
Tuesday through Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 11 AM - 5 PM
Friday: 11 AM - 6 PM
Saturday: 11 AM - 7:30 PM
Sunday: 11 AM - 5 PM

I love coming out on a Friday just before sunset—the late hours give you time to enjoy golden hour with a glass of red in hand and plenty of space to spread out. Saturdays are their longest day, which is perfect for lingering over a bottle, grabbing a snack, and maybe catching an event. Just don’t show up on a Tuesday or Wednesday—they’re closed, and trust me, it’s a sad thing to realize only once you’ve made the drive.

Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are recommended on weekends and are required for groups of 8 or more. Walk-ins are welcome as space allows. If it’s a sunny fall Saturday—book ahead!

Can I bring my own food?
Yes! Outside food is welcome and encouraged. This is a great place for a picnic, just no outside alcohol (Virginia ABC laws).

Do they serve food?
They offer a curated selection of artisan snacks—cheese, crackers, olives, spreads—but there’s no full kitchen. I like to bring a baguette and some charcuterie from Greenwood Grocery to round things out.

Are dogs allowed?
No—unlike some wineries nearby, Afton Mountain Vineyards does not allow dogs on the property (even on the patio), so leave your pup at home for this one.

Are kids allowed?
Yes, children are welcome, but keep in mind the experience is designed to be more adult-oriented. There’s no playground or kid-focused area, and the peaceful atmosphere is best suited for quiet family visits.

What are the tastings like?
Tastings are $20 and include five carefully selected wines. The experience is relaxed and seated—perfect for savoring each pour at your own pace. Glasses and bottles are also available.

Can I do a private tasting or vineyard tour?
Yes—private tastings and vineyard tours are available by reservation. These are great for wine enthusiasts or special occasions and often include library wines or barrel room access.

Do they host weddings or private events?
Afton Mountain Vineyards occasionally hosts intimate weddings or small gatherings. They don’t advertise heavily for events, so reach out directly for details. It’s a gorgeous backdrop, but their focus remains on wine.

Is the tasting room accessible?
Yes—the indoor spaces and patio are fully wheelchair accessible, with easy parking and flat walkways.

Do they ship wine?
Absolutely. Afton Mountain Vineyards ships to most states and offers a customizable wine club with quarterly releases and special perks. It’s a great way to keep a little Virginia wine country magic coming to your doorstep.

Do they host live music or special events?
They keep it simple, but you’ll find occasional pop-ups like sunset evenings, acoustic sets, or yoga in the vines. Follow them on Instagram or Facebook for updates.

Is there indoor seating for cold or rainy days?
Yes! The tasting room is spacious, cozy, and filled with natural light—ideal for cooler days. In winter, it’s one of my favorite indoor wine spots around.

Is cell service available? What about Wi-Fi?
Yes to both, although the signal can be spotty in some corners. Wi-Fi is strong in the main tasting room if you need it.

Can I walk around the vineyard?
Yes—you’re welcome to stroll around the property, especially near the lake and along the vineyard paths. Just avoid wandering into the vines themselves unless invited.

Is it good for groups?
Yes—for smaller groups (under 8), it’s a dream. Larger groups need reservations and may be limited during busy weekends. They aim to keep the experience intimate and low-key.

Do they pour anything sweet?
Yes—their Petit Manseng is a lightly sweet white with lush fruit and balanced acidity. It’s a great option if you like a touch of sweetness.

Can I bring a party bus or limo?
Best to call ahead. The entrance road is narrow, and large vehicles should confirm in advance to avoid surprises. Quiet, respectful groups are preferred.

Do they have accommodations on-site?
Yes! Afton Mountain Vineyards offers five private cottages right on the vineyard property—each with a full kitchen, deck, and peaceful vineyard views. It’s a pretty dreamy way to experience wine country.

Do they allow photography?
Yes, casual photos are welcome—but if you’re planning a professional shoot or engagement session, just call ahead to get the OK.

Is there parking?
Plenty! The lot is gravel but easy to navigate, and there’s a short walk to the tasting room. Handicap spaces are also available.

Are the wines vegan?
Not all are certified vegan, but most are made with minimal fining agents. If this matters to you, just ask the staff—they’re knowledgeable and happy to help.

Is Afton Mountain Vineyards part of the Monticello Wine Trail or Route 151?
Yes! Afton Mountain is a proud member of the Monticello Wine Trail and sits just off the heart of the Route 151 Wine & Brewery Trail.

What’s the vibe—casual or upscale?
A bit of both. The surroundings are elegant, but the atmosphere is friendly and approachable. Think linen shirts, not tuxedos.

What kind of wine do they specialize in?
They’re known for European-style wines made from estate-grown grapes, including Albariño, Tannat, Cabernet Franc, Petit Manseng, and more.

Do they offer flights or just full tastings?
The tasting flight is the main format, but you can also build your own with glasses or purchase bottles to enjoy on-site.

What was the winery's former name?
Before the Smiths owned Afton Mountain Vineyards, it was known as Bacchanal Winery. The allusion to the Greek god of wine and merriment lives on in AMV's bold red blend named Bacco.

Are there picnic tables or shaded areas?
Yes—there are umbrellas, covered patios, and Adirondack chairs spread throughout the property. Bring a hat or blanket for extra comfort.

Are gift cards available?
Yes—great for gifting a future visit. Ask in the tasting room or check their website.

Do they host winemaker dinners or pairing events?
Occasionally! Keep an eye on their events calendar or subscribe to the newsletter. These are limited and fill quickly.

What’s Nearby: Make a Day of It in Afton

One of my favorite things about Afton Mountain Vineyards—besides the wine, the views, and the peaceful vibe—is how perfectly it’s positioned as a jumping-off point for the rest of the Route 151 Wine and Beer Trail. You can spend a whole day exploring just a few miles in any direction and hit some of Virginia’s best wine, beer, and spirits spots (plus great food and local gems). Here are some of my favorite spots in the neighborhood—based on countless weekends of showing friends around, sipping wine, and chasing mountain views.

• Veritas Vineyards – 7 minutes, 3 miles
  If you’re into big, elegant wineries with soaring ceilings and scenic patios, Veritas is a must. Their sparkling wines are some of the best in the state, and the whole place has this refined-but-relaxed feel that makes it perfect for both first-timers and seasoned wine lovers. I’ve lost track of how many birthday toasts I’ve had there. The cheese plate is always on point.

• Afton Mountain Inn – 8 minutes, 4 miles
  If you're looking for the perfect place to stay near Afton Mountain Vineyards, this is it. Afton Mountain Inn is just up the road. This historic boutique inn sits on a peaceful 10-acre property surrounded by woods and mountain views. It’s got all the resort-style amenities you’d want—like a pool with cabanas, two hot tubs, outdoor fire pits, and a private nature trail that winds along a clear, spring-fed creek. The rooms are beautifully renovated, and the vibe is upscale but relaxed—ideal for wine weekends, girls’ getaways, or wedding groups. I’ve recommended it to dozens of friends and family over the years, and every single one has raved about how restful and scenic it is. Plus, it’s the only place in the area with a pool like that, which is a total win during those hot Virginia summer afternoons.

• Silverback Distillery – 9 minutes, 5 miles
  If spirits are your thing, don’t miss this powerhouse. Silverback is women-owned and seriously impressive—they make bourbon, vodka, gin, and even honey rye that’s won national awards. I still think about the smoked old-fashioned I had there on a chilly fall afternoon—it warmed me up better than a blanket.

• Blue Mountain Brewery – 10 minutes, 5 miles
  This is where I head when I need a solid meal after wine tasting. The pizza is great, the beer flights are fun (I always end up grabbing the Full Nelson Pale Ale), and the view from the patio is classic Nelson County—mountains, hops, and blue sky. It gets busy on weekends, but that’s part of the energy. Bring your appetite and maybe a designated driver.

• Hazy Mountain Vineyards & Brewery – 13 minutes, 7 miles
  This newer spot is turning heads with its sleek design, panoramic views, and dual focus on both wine and beer. I came here on a whim one rainy afternoon, and the clouds broke just in time to catch a golden sunset through their massive picture windows. It’s a great stop if you’ve got a group with mixed drink preferences.

• Devils Backbone Brewery – 21 minutes, 14 miles
  Part beer hall, part outdoor playground, and always buzzing with activity. Whether you’re with kids, dogs, or a bunch of friends, Devils Backbone is a great place to post up for a while. There’s a big lawn with Adirondack chairs, a great food menu, and often live music or a festival vibe. I’ve watched my kids run wild while I relaxed with a Vienna Lager more times than I can count.

• Nelson 151 Trail – You’re already on it!
  Afton Mountain Vineyards is literally at the heart of the Route 151 Wine & Brewery Trail. That means you’re in the perfect spot to hop from tasting room to brewery to distillery—all with Blue Ridge views as your constant backdrop. Whether you’re planning a full-blown weekend itinerary or just a slow afternoon crawl, this stretch of road delivers. I always keep a cooler in the car and a few favorite picnic spots in my back pocket. Trust me—you’ll want to linger.