With Trump’s new global tariffs (and even larger ones looming), it's a better time than ever to get into the local wine scene. Dave McIntyre, the Washington Post’s wine columnist (yes, that’s a real job) shared where to find great wine, tariff free.
First, What Wines Are Good Here?
- For a red wine, McIntyre suggests the Cabernet Franc, a variety that a lot of Virginia and Maryland wineries specialize in, because it thrives in the Mid-Atlantic climate.
- For white wine, Petite Mansen is very popular right now. It’s a tropical, fruity wine that’s pretty much only found in the DMV. Albarino and Sauvignon Blanc are also standouts.
Virginia:
Early Mountain Vineyards (Madison County)
One of McIntyre’s favorites, this winery has a large variety to choose from. He particularly recommends their Petit Manseng and Cabernet Franc.
Stinson Vineyards (Crozet)
This father-daughter winery is a little farther afield but worth the trip. It specializes in small lot wines with a distinct French influence and process, including whole berry fermentation for reds and sur lie aging for whites.
Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards (North Garden)
With one of the most beautiful facilities and views in Virginia, this vineyard also has a great farm-to-table restaurant.
Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard in Maryland. (Idawriter/Wikimedia Commons)
Maryland:
Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyards (Dickerson)
This gorgeous outdoor winery is only 30 minutes from D.C. and 22-acres large. They currently grow six red and six white varieties.
Linganore Wines (Mt. Airy)
An older winery famous for sweet, fruity wines. But McIntyre says they are also experimenting with some dry wines, including one he loves with Saperavi grapes. “They're one of very few people in the mid-Atlantic growing that,” he noted.
Black Ankle Vineyards (Mt. Airy)
With a $33 wine tasting and regular live music and food trucks, this is one of Maryland's most popular vineyards. Beware the crowds on weekends.
DC:
District Winery (Navy Yard)
The only place in D.C. that makes their own wine. You can do a formal tasting or go for just a glass. They also have a full restaurant.
Lulu’s Winegarden (U St. Corridor)
Although they don’t make wine, they stock a lot of local bottles, so it’s a great way to try out local wines without leaving the city.
Sonny’s Pizza (Park View)
This pizza place regularly hosts natural local wine tastings, bringing in wineries from across the region. They even have a wine club.
