While we tend to focus primarily on the beauty of Smith Mountain Lake and all of the related recreational activities that it offers there are so many other sights and attractions that residents and visitors alike can partake in, not the least of which is the scenic Bedford Wine Trail. With the 2014 season kicking off in only a few short days (April is the beginning of the season), it’s only fitting to feature the history of wine in the state of Virginia along with highlighting our closest wine trail to the Smith Mountain Lake area.

The Bedford Wine Trail

This 100 mile long trail features a grand total of six wineries, four of which are located in the Smith Mountain Lake region. The wine trail allows visitors to partake in wine tasting, special events, beautiful scenery and making special memories. Whether it is a romantic escape that you are after or perhaps a fun-filled relaxing day spent with friends the Bedford Wine Trail can deliver. Stop in at the Bedford Welcome Center to get your own copy of the Wine Trail brochure which you can get stamped at wineries that you visit, then upon completion of your wine trail tour stop back in to the Welcome Center and get a free wine glass souvenir. A large variety of wines are offered on the trail which are sure to please any palate.

Virginia’s Wine Industry

The state of Virginia features 12 wine trails with over 200 wineries and that number is quickly growing. Virginia’s tasting rooms and wide variety of wines are making a name for themselves across the world, being named as one of the top five up and coming wine areas.

Over 400 years ago Jamestown settlers had high hopes of establishing Virginia as a major source for wine. Now in present day, Virginia is gaining national and international recognition for the elegant qualities of wine produced. Only four other states in the U.S. have more wineries than Virginia, which may soon change as the wine industry continues to flourish in the state. Recently listed as one of the top 10 best wine travel destinations in the country, Virginia offers so much to the wine enthusiast.