A Luxurious Escape to RdV Vineyards: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting
If you love wine, breathtaking countryside views, and a touch of exclusivity, then a visit to RdV Vineyards in Virginia should be on your must-do list. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this winery has earned a reputation for crafting some of the best Bordeaux-style blends outside of France. But unlike your typical tasting-room experience, RdV offers a more intimate, elevated, and personalized approach to wine appreciation.
So, if you’re planning a visit (or just dreaming about sipping world-class wine in a stunning setting), here’s everything you need to know about RdV Vineyards, its exceptional wines, and how to make the most of your trip.
What Makes RdV Vineyards So Special?
While Virginia may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of premium wines, RdV Vineyards is changing that perception. Founder Rutger de Vink set out with one goal: to make wine in Virginia that could stand shoulder to shoulder with Bordeaux’s finest. With meticulous attention to detail, gravelly hillside soils (similar to those in Bordeaux!), and a relentless focus on quality, RdV has become one of the most sought-after wineries in the region.
Unlike many wineries that focus on variety, RdV specializes in Bordeaux-style blends, crafting wines with depth, elegance, and age-worthiness. If you love Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and the finesse of French winemaking, this is your kind of place.
The Winery
From the moment you step onto the property, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a European wine estate. The sophisticated yet cozy tasting room and the breathtaking vineyard views create the perfect atmosphere for a laid-back, luxurious day. The winery is stunning and very welcoming.
Expect a laid-back but refined vibe—you’ll feel pampered, but not pressured. Sip on your wine as you take in the gorgeous landscapes that make RDV a truly special spot.
How to Visit RdV Vineyards
Visiting RdV is not your typical drop-in wine tasting…it’s an experience. Here’s what you need to know before you go:
📍 Location: RdV Vineyards is located in Delaplane, Virginia, about an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C.
🗓️ Reservations Required: This isn’t a casual, walk-in winery. Tastings are by appointment only, which makes for a more exclusive, intimate experience. Be sure to book your visit in advance—spots fill up quickly!
💰 Tasting Fee: Expect a premium experience, with tastings ranging around $120 per person. But trust me, the experience (and the wine!) is worth it. These are world-class wines that are highly sought after, earning praise from big names like James Suckling and Robert Parker and the exclusive experience is priced accordingly.
🍷 Experience: Your visit includes a guided tour of the vineyard and cellar, followed by a seated tasting in their elegant, modern tasting room overlooking the vineyards. You’ll sample RdV’s limited-production flight of three wines while learning about the winery’s philosophy and winemaking process. I love a solid charcuterie board and thankfully their experience includes a seasonal charcuterie and cheese board that perfectly complements each wine. They also offer other snacks if you are in need of more sustenance.
The Wines of RdV Vineyards
Let’s talk about what really matters…the wines. RdV crafts small-batch, high-quality Bordeaux-style blends that wine lovers rave about. Here’s what you’ll likely taste on your visit:
🍷 Lost Mountain (The Crown Jewel)
- RdV’s flagship wine, made predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot and Petit Verdot playing supporting roles.
- Tasting Notes: Deep, dark fruit flavors, hints of graphite, tobacco, and vanilla. Rich, structured, and built to age beautifully.
- Perfect Pairing: A luxurious steak dinner or a decadent cheese board.
🍷 Rendezvous (A More Approachable Blend)
- A Merlot-driven Bordeaux blend that’s a bit softer and more fruit-forward than Lost Mountain.
- Tasting Notes: Ripe plum, raspberry, subtle tobacco, and a silky finish. Elegant, smooth, and easy to love.
- Perfect Pairing: Roasted meats, mushroom risotto, or a cozy night in with a great book.
🍷 Friends and Family (The Insider Favorite)
- A more exclusive, allocation-only blend made from grapes that don’t make it into the flagship wines.
- Tasting Notes: Dark cherry, spice, and a bold tannic structure that mellows beautifully with age.
- Perfect Pairing: Enjoy it now or let it evolve in the cellar!
*Pro Tip: If you are a champagne lover, you’ve got to order the Aubry Champagne (pictured below). I mean, just look at the color, so good!
Ambassador Membership
After our first visit, we were hooked and needed no more convincing to buy as many bottles as we could get our hands on. Easier said than done. We were not exaggerating when we said this wine is highly sought after! The winery produces just 2,000 cases per year (less than 0.2% of Virginia’s total production) and only members are guaranteed an allocation. After about a year on their waitlist, we were lucky enough to become ambassadors (aka members) and look forward to our annual allocation announcement, special events, and other fun perks.
Even if membership is not for you, we highly recommend planning a visit to celebrate a special occasion, impress visiting family or friends, or just to shake up your weekend routine. Their wine and vineyards are truly one of a kind and we are lucky to live so close.
Is RdV Worth the Visit?
Absolutely! RdV is more than just a winery, it’s a destination. Whether you’re a serious wine collector or simply someone who appreciates exceptional wines in a stunning setting, this is a must-visit experience in Virginia’s wine country. From the moment you step onto the estate, you’ll feel the passion, craftsmanship, and dedication that make RdV a true standout.
So, book your tasting, raise a glass, and get ready for a wine experience like no other. After all, life is too short to drink bad wine! So, if you’re planning your next wine adventure, make sure RDV Vineyards is at the top of your list.
Cheers to great wine and unforgettable experiences!
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+ RdV uses Zalto hand blown crystal wine glasses and they are stunning! Check out more of the best wine glasses and my favorite wine and charcuterie favorites below.
Gina
