Northern Virginia’s Granite Heights Winery and Winery at La Grange each took coveted spots in the Virginia Governor’s Cup Case for 2026. The top prize, the Governor’s Cup, was awarded to Afton’s Valley Roads Vineyards for its 2023 Cabernet Franc Reserve.
“Tonight reflects the dedication, innovation, and agricultural strength that continues to elevate Virginia as one of our nation’s premier wine regions,” said Governor Abigail Spanberger. “Valley Road Vineyards’ 2023 Cabernet Franc Reserve showcases the exceptional craftsmanship and quality on display tonight, and I look forward to supporting these incredible vineyards over the next four years.” The governor presented the cup to the winner at a gala in Richmond on Thursday.
The competition, now in its 44th year, received a record of more than 670 entries, with 224 gold medals awarded to 113 wineries and cideries across the commonwealth.
The Winning Wines
Granite Heights Winery was recognized for its 2024 Humility, made of 100% Lagrein, which is a red grape native to northern Italy. Granite Heights is located in Warrenton. It’s currently closed for the winter and plans to reopen in April.
Haymarket’s Winery at La Grange was awarded a place in the case for its 2024 Petit Manseng, a white wine. The winery is offering a three-pack of its award-winning petit manseng bottles for $79. It’s open Sundays through Thursdays, noon to 6 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays, noon to 8 p.m.
The rest of the wines in the Virginia Governor’s Cup Case include:
- 7 Lady Vineyards in Manakin-Sabot, 2023 Meritage
- Barboursville Vineyards in Barboursville, 2024 Vermentino
- CrossKeys Vineyards in Crawford, 2024 Cabernet Franc
- Fifty-Third Winery and Vineyard in Louisa, 2023 Two Springs
- Glen Manor Vineyards in Front Royal, 2023 Vin Rouge
- Michael Shaps Wineworks in Charlottesville, 2023 Cabernet Franc
- Pollak Vineyards in Greenwood, 2023 Merlot Reserve
- Trump Winery in Charlottesville, 2018 Blanc de Noir
- Woodbrook Farm Vineyard in Orange, 2024 Petit Manseng
The full list of gold, silver, and bronze medal winners is available from the Virginia Governor’s Cup.
Featured image of Valley Roads Vineyards owners with Gov. Abigail Spanberger, courtesy Virginia Governor’s Cup
