Signing up for the 2024 Gold Medal Wine Trail unlocks exclusive prizes, one-of-a-kind offers, and seasonal raffles along the way. Select wineries are offering their own deals, too. From free tastings of gold medal-winning wines to discounts on bottle purchases, the trail opens the door to exclusive Virginia Wine experiences.
Passholders who check in at participating locations will receive 100 points with each check-in to put toward Virginia Wine prizes. Cashing in offers and discounts will unlock extra points, and trail users can visit their favorite wineries monthly for even more points. Prizes up for grabs include Virginia Wine art prints, sweatshirts, blankets, aprons, and seasonal giveaways.
After tasting over 750 entries, world-class judges, led by competition director Frank Morgan, awarded 138 gold medals to 79 wineries, cideries, and meaderies across the Commonwealth. This year’s gold medalists serve as a testament to the remarkable diversity and range of wines emerging from Virginia’s terroir.
Leading the pack regionally was Central Virginia with a total of 66 gold medals. This year’s impressive medal count coincides with the area’s recognition in Wine Enthusiast‘s 24th Annual Wine Star Awards. Charlottesville, Virginia, and the Monticello AVA were named Wine Region of the Year, achieving global recognition in the world of winemaking. The award highlights the remarkable achievements in the wine industry and honors Charlottesville’s exceptional quality, innovation, and commitment to producing world-class wines. The area is home to over 20 percent of Virginia’s vineyard plantings and boasts over 40 wineries, many of which can be found in the Monticello AVA.
Check out the full list of gold medalists or plan your next adventure to taste the winners with the Gold Medal Wine Trail. Using the trail offers the chance to visit seven of Virginia’s winemaking regions, spanning from picturesque Shenandoah to the shores of the Chesapeake Bay, and everything in between. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone on the trail.
For those eager to dive deeper into Virginia wine, your adventure awaits. With personalized itineraries tailored to individual preferences, visitors can plan immersive experiences including tastings, vineyard tours, and culinary delights throughout the Commonwealth. The Virginia Wine guide provides a convenient map of the state’s wineries, which is available upon request. Or, download the Virginia Wine app, which offers event details and regional maps on your mobile device for on-the-go access and spontaneous planning.
With a record number of entries in the competition, the 2024 pass guarantees tastes of Virginia’s best wines. Start exploring Virginia’s wine country today with the Gold Medal Wine Trail!
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