Welcome to Nelson 151.
Virgina's Finest Wine & Beer Trail.
Nelson 151 is a premier wine and beer trail located in the Blue Ridge Mountains along Route 151 in Nelson County, Virginia. Renowned for its rolling hills and beautiful vineyards, Nelson County provides an ideal setting for an unforgettable wine and beer tasting adventure.
This region offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and exquisite beverages, making it a must-visit destination for both wine and beer enthusiasts. Whether you are an experienced connoisseur or simply enjoy sipping casually, the wineries and breweries in Nelson County promise an experience that will delight your taste buds and uplift your spirit.
Embark on your journey through Virginia's wine country and prepare to explore, savor, and create lasting memories as you immerse yourself in the rich flavors, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality of this enchanting corner of Virginia.
Nelson 151: A Scenic Wine and Beer Trail
Nelson 151 has become a top destination for wine enthusiasts, craft beverage, and spirit lovers. This 25-mile stretch of State Route 151 is home to an impressive collection of Virginia's wineries, cideries, breweries, and distilleries, making it the number one destination for those seeking to explore the best of Virginia wine country.
Once a rural passthrough, Nelson 151 has transformed into a vibrant hub for award-winning wine, beer, and cider businesses. The trail's wine-soaked ascension began in 2001 when Veritas Winery produced its first vintage. Today, you'll find seven wineries, four breweries, three cideries, and three distilleries along this scenic byway, offering an exceptional experience for weekend getaways.
As you journey along Nelson 151, you'll have the opportunity to sample a wide variety of craft beverages. The wineries in VA's Nelson County showcase the region's terroir, producing exquisite vintages that reflect the area's unique characteristics. From farm wineries to elegant modern tasting rooms, each stop on the trail offers a distinct wine-tasting experience.
Panoramic Vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains
One of the most captivating aspects of Nelson 151 is its stunning natural setting. Resting at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this scenic route provides breathtaking views that serve as a perfect backdrop for your wine and beer tasting adventures. Nelson County is known for being the most mountainous county east of the Mississippi River, ensuring that the scenery alone is worth the trip.
Traveling along Nelson 151, you'll be treated to spectacular vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling hills, and lush vineyards. Many of the wineries and tasting rooms take full advantage of these views, offering outdoor seating areas where you can sip your favorite vintages while soaking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Standout Wineries on Nelson 151
As you explore the Nelson 151 wine trail, you'll encounter several exceptional wineries that showcase the best of Virginia wine country. Each offers a unique experience, from distinctive wine styles to breathtaking views. Let's take a closer look at some of the standout wineries along this scenic route.
Hazy Mountain Vineyard and Brewery
Discover Hazey Mountain Vineyard & Brewery, a picturesque destination in the heart of Virginia wine country. Located in Afton, this family-owned winery showcases award-winning wines against the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. With 86 acres of vineyards spanning two of Virginia's premier growing regions - the Monticello and Shenandoah Valley AVAs - Hazey Mountain offers a true taste of Virginia's viticultural excellence.
Wine enthusiasts and families alike will delight in the guided tastings of their most popular wines, including private sessions for groups. The spacious tasting room and inviting outdoor seating area provide the perfect setting to savor your favorite vintages while soaking in the breathtaking views. Year-round events such as painting sessions and Latin dance nights add to the vibrant atmosphere, making Hazey Mountain a must-visit destination for those seeking unforgettable, family-friendly winery experiences.
Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a fun day out with loved ones, this enchanting spot in Virginia's wine country promises something special for every visitor. Come and explore the flavors, sights, and warm hospitality that make Hazey Mountain Vineyard & Brewery a standout attraction in Afton, Virginia.
Veritas Vineyard & Winery
Discover the allure of Veritas Vineyard and Winery, a crown jewel of Virginia wine country, perched in the picturesque Afton region. This family-owned estate, a standout on the renowned Nelson 151 Wine Trail, invites wine lovers and families to experience the epitome of Virginia's viticultural excellence. Just a scenic 20-minute drive west of Charlottesville, Veritas offers a perfect blend of award-winning wines and breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountain vistas.
Immerse yourself in the art of winemaking as you explore Veritas' meticulously tended vineyards, where Virginia-grown grapes flourish under the skilled care of passionate vintners. The winery's commitment to quality shines through in every bottle, showcasing the unique terroir of the Monticello Wine Country.
Indulge your senses with a visit to the iconic Tasting Room, where knowledgeable staff guide you through self-guided Taste in Place flights or curate custom tastings tailored to your palate. As you sip and savor, let your gaze wander across the rolling hills and lush landscapes that make Afton a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.
For those seeking a more intimate experience, Veritas offers private picnic areas where you can enjoy a bottle of your favorite vintage alongside locally sourced gourmet treats. The sun-drenched brick patio and covered veranda provide the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories with friends and family.
King Family Vineyards
King Family Vineyards, a family-owned winery in Crozet, Virginia, offers an authentic wine country experience just 15 minutes from Charlottesville. Located along the Nelson 151 Wine Trail, it boasts stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains' foothills.
Renowned for producing premium wines, King Family Vineyards showcases the exceptional quality of the Monticello AVA. Winemaker Matthieu Finot crafts a diverse selection of award-winning wines, including reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling varieties. The vineyard's Small Batch Series and Meritage Program highlight unique expressions of Virginia wine.
Visitors can enjoy daily wine tastings, vineyard tours, and special events throughout the year. What sets King Family Vineyards apart is its blend of wine culture and outdoor activities, including exciting polo matches on the property. This family-friendly setting ensures there's something for everyone to enjoy.
For those exploring Virginia wine country, King Family Vineyards is a must-visit destination. Its combination of award-winning wines, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality promises an unforgettable experience in the beautiful landscape of Central Virginia.
Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards
Experience the majesty of Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards, a premier destination in Virginia's wine country. Situated in Afton along the picturesque Nelson 151 Wine Trail, this boutique vineyard offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and combines culinary excellence with world-class winemaking.
Indulge in Pippin Hill's diverse selection of award-winning wines, including their gold medal-winning 2021 Petit Manseng, Wild Common blend, and robust Petit Verdot. Wine enthusiasts can immerse themselves in unique experiences such as the Estate Tour & Tasting, Greenhouse Grazing Table, and the exclusive Vintner's Table experience.
More than just a winery, Pippin Hill caters to all visitors with its farm-to-table cuisine, on-site Cooking School, and family-friendly atmosphere. As a stunning events venue, it's perfect for weddings and private gatherings, offering a blend of natural beauty and refined elegance.
Located just 15 minutes south of Charlottesville, Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards is an essential stop on any Virginia wine country tour. Whether you're a wine connoisseur, food lover, or seeking a beautiful escape, Pippin Hill captures the essence of Virginia's wine country charm. Plan your visit and discover why this region is becoming a must-visit destination for wine lovers across the globe.
Much More Than Wine – Craft Beer, Cider, and Spirit Breweries
While Nelson 151 is renowned for its wineries, the trail offers beer and spirits as well. The diverse range of craft beverages available makes it an ideal destination for all types of drink enthusiasts.
For beer lovers, Blue Mountain Brewery, Nelson County's first brewery, is a must-visit. Its unbeatable mountain views and a selection of crisp, hoppy ales make it a perfect stop on your journey. Devils Backbone Brewing Company is another notable destination, offering a variety of beers and house-made spirits in their distillery lounge.
Cider enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy. Bold Rock Hard Cider, the nation's largest independently owned cider company, started right here on the Nelson 151. Their flagship location serves as the main production facility and tasting room, offering a range of ciders made from locally sourced apples. Blue Toad Hard Cider is another excellent option, known for its Barrel-Aged Series and award-winning dry cider.
Silverback Distillery, helmed by a mother-daughter duo, creates flavorful spirits using mountain water and locally sourced grain for those interested in spirits. Their 4-Grain Straight Bourbon, Blackback Honey Rye, and Strange Monkey Gin are consistent favorites among visitors.
As you plan your journey along Nelson 151, remember that the trail offers flexibility in how you explore. Focus on wineries one day and breweries the next, or mix and match based on your preferences. With its diverse offerings and stunning scenery, Nelson 151 truly embodies the spirit of Virginia wine country, providing an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Planning Your Wine Tour
As you prepare to explore the enchanting Nelson wineries, careful planning can enhance your experience in Virginia wine country. From selecting the ideal time to visit to choosing the best transportation and accommodation options, here's what you need to know to make the most of your wine tour.
Best Times to Visit
The Nelson County wineries offer a year-round experience, but certain seasons provide unique advantages. Spring and fall are trendy times to visit, as the weather is mild and the scenery is most picturesque. During these seasons, you can enjoy the blooming vineyards or the stunning fall foliage adorning the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Summer brings warmer temperatures and longer days, perfect for outdoor tastings and events. Many wineries in VA host special summer concerts and festivals during this time. However, remember that weekends can be busier, especially during peak season.
Winter offers a quieter, more intimate experience at Nelson County wineries. While some vineyards may have reduced hours, you'll find cozy tasting rooms and the opportunity to savor hearty reds by the fireplace.
Transportation Options
To fully enjoy your wine tour without worrying about driving, consider using a designated driver service or joining a guided tour. Several companies offer transportation options tailored to wine enthusiasts exploring Nelson 151 and the surrounding area.
Cville Hop On Tours specializes in customizable tours sold per person, with no minimum group size required. Every tour offers a variety of craft beverage options, including visits to wineries, breweries, cideries, and distilleries. Their comfortable buses can accommodate groups of various sizes, making them an excellent choice for both private and public tours.
For a more luxurious experience, Camryn Limousine provides top-of-the-class transportation throughout Route 151. Named "Best Wine Tour Company" and "Best Limo to Winery," they offer a premium way to explore the Nelson wineries and ensure your weekend getaway is everything you desire.
Lodging Near the Wineries
To fully immerse yourself in the Virginia wine country experience, consider staying at one of the many charming accommodations near the Nelson wineries. From historic farmhouses to elegant inns, there's an option to suit every taste and budget.
The historic Afton Mountain Inn, built in 1848, is a top choice for families looking to experience a gorgeous 10-acre property that features a pool and cabana, hot tub, lounge areas, romantic chair swings, three fire pits, a badminton court, and a private nature trail that meanders along the banks of a crystal-clear creek. It is located in the heart of the 151 Wine and Brewery Trail, just minutes from both the Blue Ridge Parkway and Skyline Drive.
The Farmhouse at Veritas B&B, dating back to 1836, offers eight luxurious bedrooms in the Virginia Wine Country. Located on Veritas Vineyards and Winery, this hidden treasure provides world-class dining and a farm-fresh breakfast, allowing you to experience the down-to-earth luxury fostered in this region.
For a more intimate setting, the Afton Farmhouse is the perfect location for exploring Nelson 151. This beautifully renovated space is ideally located at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing easy access to vineyards, breweries, and hiking trails.
If you prefer a boutique motel experience, Basecamp151 is the only such accommodation located directly on Nelson 151. With seven individual suites, a common area living room, and wood-burning fire pits, it's an excellent choice for weekend getaways or group trips.
By considering the best time to visit, choosing reliable transportation, and selecting accommodations that complement your wine tour experience, you'll be well-prepared to explore the stunning Nelson wineries and create lasting memories in Virginia wine country.
Nelson County's Wine & Beer Trail Has Something for Everyone
Nelson County offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and exquisite craft beverages, making it a must-visit destination in Virginia for wine and beer enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. The stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains adds to the charm, creating an unforgettable experience for tourists visiting vineyards & wineries, breweries & distilleries, or the areas local attractions.
Nelson County's wine country has something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a casual sipper. The welcoming atmosphere, breathtaking scenery, and top-notch craft beverages make for an ideal weekend getaway or leisurely exploration. With careful planning and the right accommodations, you're sure to create lasting memories in this enchanting corner of Virginia.