The Bedford Wine Trail began back in 2006 and currently consists of 5 wineries that are all just a short jaunt from the Smith Mountain Lake communities.
Hickory Hills Vineyard and Winery
Hickory Hills Vineyard and Winery has a 30 year old history, which makes it the oldest winery in the SML area. With over 40 awards and medals the Hickory Hills Vineyard is the favorite of many. Known for its charming 1923 farmhouse tasting room and scenic picnic area you should be sure to stop in. The winery features a “Lake series” which consists of a light and fruity style. Wine varieties offered include: Chardonnay, Vidal Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Tours and tastings run from 12pm to 6pm Wednesday through Sundays throughout the main tasting season which spans between April to October.
Saturday nights throughout the summer feature Hickory Hills Sunset Saturdays. These events feature great music at a low cost and fun for the whole family. Pack a picnic and bring your lawn chairs, you can purchase wines by the glass or bottle and enjoy talented musicians serenading you at dusk. The 2014 season marks the 10th year for this popular event!
Savoy-Lee Winery
The Savoy-Lee Winery is a family run and veteran owned business that is celebrating its history this year from its first crush back in 2004. Fast forward 10 years and the Savoy-Lee Winery has produced many award-wining wines as well as changed their business model to strictly focus on wine making and not the additional work of grape growing. All wine grapes purchased are 100% Virginia grown. The tasting room is located at 5800 Johnson Mountain Road in Huddleston, Virginia. Be sure to bring your wine trail map along on your visit so you can get it stamped, getting stamps from all 5 wineries entitles you to a free souvenir Bedford Wine Trail wine glass at the Bedford Welcome Center.
Wine Festival Alert
If you enjoy wine festivals, then you better mark your calendar for the 10th Annual Horse & Hound Wine Festival to be held on July 12, 2014. Last years event included a muskrat race, dog tricks and talent contests, a horse parade and various demos. In addition a kiddie corral and dog play areas are added features of this great wine festival.
After partaking in the wonderful wine selections available on the Bedford Wine Trail you will soon be saying, “Make mine Virginian wine!”