Barboursville Vineyards and Ruins
Historic estate with award-winning wines, featuring Thomas Jefferson-designed ruins and stunning vineyard vistas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Barboursville Vineyards and Ruins
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic estate with award-winning wines, featuring Thomas Jefferson-designed ruins and stunning vineyard vistas.
"Five star vineyard. An automatic entry into our top 3!"
🚗 Plan Your Arrival
Weekends get busy! Consider arriving early or booking tasting experiences in advance to secure your spot.
🚶♀️ Explore the Ruins
Don't miss the historic ruins; they're a stunning backdrop for photos and a glimpse into history.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Historic Ruins
Adjacent to the winery
Explore the striking remains of Governor James Barbour's mansion, designed by Thomas Jefferson.
Award-Winning Wines
Winery tasting rooms
Savor a diverse selection of wines, from crisp whites to robust reds, including their acclaimed Octagon.

Scenic Vineyard Views
Vineyard grounds
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of rolling hills and vineyards, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Embrace the History and the Wine
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Plan Your Arrival
Weekends get busy! Consider arriving early or booking tasting experiences in advance to secure your spot.
🚶♀️ Explore the Ruins
Don't miss the historic ruins; they're a stunning backdrop for photos and a glimpse into history.
🍷 Taste the Variety
Opt for a tasting flight to sample a range of their acclaimed wines, from whites to reds.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds with a bottle of your favorite wine.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Plan Your Arrival
Weekends get busy! Consider arriving early or booking tasting experiences in advance to secure your spot.
🚶♀️ Explore the Ruins
Don't miss the historic ruins; they're a stunning backdrop for photos and a glimpse into history.
🍷 Taste the Variety
Opt for a tasting flight to sample a range of their acclaimed wines, from whites to reds.
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds with a bottle of your favorite wine.
📚 Learn from the Winemaker
Catch winemaker Luca Paschina's insights on winemaking and grape varietals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Barboursville Vineyards for its exceptional wines and beautiful setting, highlighting the historic ruins and scenic vineyard views. The informative tastings and pleasant staff contribute to a highly enjoyable experience, making it a top recommendation for wine lovers and history buffs alike.
"Very good wine! Great winery, with several levels of options for tasting rooms (outside picnic tables, bar, sit down w robust tasting food menu, and a restaurant). Beautiful location with walking trails and historic ruins of first governor’s mansion."
j j
"Five star vineyard. An automatic entry into our top 3! We enjoyed a guided tasting through 12 wines - definitely one of the more informative tastings we have had. You don’t see this everywhere, so much appreciated, learning along our wine journey.
The wine- all spectacular, 5 dry whites, 5 dry reds a fantastic sparkling and an off-dry desert. Came home with several. There are more reserves- figured we’d leave some to try next time.
Enjoyed a nice afternoon in the “Library” with a nice meat board, gourmet sliders and a reserve Petit Verdot.
Trekked up to the ruins of Gov Barbour’s estate (built by Thomas Jefferson) afterwards. Very cool piece of history.
Definitely a must do when you come to the area. Will be back."
Matt Kruskie
"Overall this was a very enjoyable vineyard. Perfect weather with an amazing veranda that looks into the onsite ruins and has clear views of the mountains.
There was a good selection of wines, so I chose to go with the 6 taste sampler approx $30. After trying the wines I bought a bottle and enjoyed a cheese plate, which is always enjoyable."
Michael Arguelles
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Barboursville Vineyards is located in Barboursville, Virginia. It's easily accessible by car, typically a scenic drive from major cities like Charlottesville or Richmond. Many visitors arrive via party bus tours or as part of a wine country road trip.
Yes, ample parking is available for visitors. It's recommended to arrive early on weekends as parking lots can fill up quickly.
Absolutely! Barboursville Vineyards makes for a perfect day trip, offering wine tasting, historical exploration, and beautiful scenery.
While direct public transport is limited, many visitors opt for organized wine tours or private transportation services that include Barboursville Vineyards in their itinerary.
The best route depends on your starting point, but it's generally a straightforward drive through scenic Virginia countryside. GPS navigation is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds is generally free, but wine tastings and tours typically require a fee. It's advisable to check their official website for current pricing and to book tasting experiences in advance, especially for weekends.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Barboursville Vineyards website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours for the tasting rooms, restaurant, and grounds.
Tasting fees can vary depending on the type of tasting offered. A 6-taste sampler is approximately $30, but it's recommended to confirm current pricing on their website.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend visits and for specific tasting experiences or the restaurant. This helps ensure you get a spot and can plan your visit smoothly.
Visitors must be 21 years or older to participate in wine tastings. All guests are expected to have valid identification.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond wine tasting, you can explore the historic ruins designed by Thomas Jefferson, enjoy scenic walks through the vineyards, and dine at their restaurant, Palladio.
The ruins are an outdoor historical site. While the main paths are generally accessible, some areas might have uneven terrain.
Yes, picnicking is encouraged! You can bring your own food to enjoy on the grounds, and many visitors pair it with a bottle of Barboursville wine.
While the focus is on wine, the expansive grounds and historical ruins can be interesting for older children. However, tastings are for 21+ only.
Expect stunning views of rolling vineyards, the historic ruins, and the surrounding Piedmont landscape, including views of Goodlaw Mountain.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Barboursville Vineyards features Palladio, an Italian restaurant offering a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on local ingredients and their wines.
Palladio serves Italian-inspired cuisine, often featuring seasonal dishes that pair well with Barboursville wines. They also offer gourmet sliders and cheese plates.
Reservations are highly recommended for Palladio, especially for dinner or during peak season, to ensure you can secure a table.
Yes, you can enjoy a cheese plate or meat board with your wine tasting, and many visitors bring their own picnics to enjoy on the grounds.
Barboursville Vineyards can host special events, including wine dinners. They have hosted exclusive wine dinners for members and guests.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic ruins are a prime photo spot, especially during golden hour. The vineyard landscapes and tasting room exteriors also offer beautiful photographic opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged throughout the grounds and for personal use. Be mindful of other guests and any specific restrictions in private event areas.
Late afternoon and early evening, during the 'golden hour,' provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photographing the ruins.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to contact Barboursville Vineyards directly to inquire about their specific regulations regarding drone photography.
Many visitors love capturing the contrast between the ancient ruins and the vibrant vineyards, as well as the panoramic mountain views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🥂 Couples and Romantic Getaways
🍷 Wine Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Barboursville Vineyards
Under the guidance of Italian winemaker Luca Paschina, Barboursville Vineyards has gained international acclaim for its wines. Paschina's expertise has been instrumental in producing award-winning vintages, including their flagship red blend, Octagon. The winery offers a variety of tasting experiences, allowing visitors to explore their diverse portfolio, from crisp white wines to complex red blends. The commitment to quality and tradition is evident in every glass, reflecting both the rich history of the land and the passion of its winemakers.
Experiencing Wine Tasting at Barboursville
Beyond the standard tasting, Barboursville also offers more curated experiences. The 'Library' provides a more intimate setting for enjoying reserve wines and gourmet pairings like cheese boards and sliders. For those seeking a more formal dining experience, the on-site restaurant, Palladio, serves Italian-inspired cuisine designed to complement the vineyard's wines. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious newcomer, Barboursville provides an engaging and delicious way to explore Virginia's wine country.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit