In the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Lovingston Winery offers one of the most enchanting experiences on the Nelson 29 Craft Beverage Trail. This family-owned estate winery delivers an authentic Virginia wine country experience that goes far beyond traditional wine tasting, combining exceptional wines with unique events and genuine farm hospitality in a stunning countryside setting.
The Lovingston Wine Tasting Experience
Step into the circa 1906 farmhouse that serves as Lovingston’s intimate tasting room, and you’ll immediately understand what makes this place special. Original hardwood floors creak gently underfoot as you settle into this cozy, authentic setting where every corner tells a story. The warmth of this century-old home creates an atmosphere that’s both elegant and welcoming—perfect for discovering your new favorite Virginia wine.
The tasting experience at Lovingston is refreshingly personal. Rather than a standard flight, you’ll enjoy custom tasting flights at $15 where you choose any 4 wines from their current selection. This approach means every visit is tailored to your preferences, whether you’re drawn to crisp whites, bold reds, or want to explore something completely new.
What You’ll Taste: 100% Estate-Grown Excellence
Every wine at Lovingston comes from grapes grown right on the property—a rarity that ensures exceptional quality and authentic Virginia character. The vineyard’s 11.5 acres feature densely-planted vines that produce concentrated, flavorful fruit perfect for Virginia’s climate.
Current Wine Offerings Include:
White Wines:
- Seyval Blanc – Crisp and refreshing with bright acidity
- Chardonnay – Classic Virginia-style with subtle oak influence
- Petit Manseng – Aromatic with tropical fruit notes
- Late Harvest Petit Manseng – A sweet treat with concentrated flavors
Red Wines:
- Cabernet Franc – Virginia’s signature grape with herbaceous notes
- Merlot – Smooth and approachable with dark fruit flavors
- Pinotage – A unique South African varietal rarely found in Virginia
- Rotunda Red – A sophisticated blend showcasing estate fruit
- Estate Reserve – Limited production premium blend
Rosé:
- ‘Love, Virginia’ Rosé – A delicate, dry rosé perfect for Virginia summers
The Atmosphere: Authentic Farm Life
What truly sets Lovingston apart is its genuine farm atmosphere. As you explore the property, you’ll likely encounter Teddy and Queenie, the resident mini horses who graze peacefully among the vineyards. The family dogs, Hank the Corgi and Arnie, add to the welcoming farm ambiance that makes every visit feel like you’re visiting friends rather than just another winery.
The setting is breathtaking—rolling hills dotted with ancient oak trees, manicured vineyards stretching toward the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the kind of peaceful countryside views that make you want to linger with a glass of wine long after your tasting is complete.
Unique Experiences Beyond Wine Tasting
The Famous Annual Corgi Races
The highlight of Lovingston’s event calendar is their wildly popular Corgi races—one of the most anticipated events in all of Nelson County. Picture this: dozens of adorable Corgis racing across the vineyard while you sip wine and cheer from the sidelines. The event features multiple qualifying heats, live music, food trucks, and an atmosphere of pure joy that’s infectious. Tickets sell out fast, so plan ahead if you want to witness what might be the most adorable competition you’ll ever see.
Tea for Tupelo: An Unexpected Delight
For something completely different, Lovingston offers Tea for Tupelo—an elegant traditional tea service that transforms the farmhouse into an English countryside manor. Imagine towers of scones, tea sandwiches, cookies, and delicate treats accompanied by a selection of fine teas, all served in a room adorned with fresh flowers. It’s a sophisticated alternative that attracts both wine lovers and those seeking a unique countryside experience.
A Perfect Family Destination
Lovingston Winery excels at creating an environment where everyone feels welcome. Kids love exploring the property, playing on the tree swing, and meeting the mini horses. The winery provides snacks and juice boxes for young visitors, while parents can relax knowing their children are safe and entertained in this beautiful, open farm setting.
Pet owners will appreciate that well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas, making it easy to include the whole family in your Nelson 29 adventure.
Extend Your Stay: Overnight at the Winery
For the ultimate Lovingston experience, consider staying overnight in one of their unique accommodations. Sleep in the historic 1906 farmhouse or the picturesque log cabin surrounded by 250-year-old oak trees. Imagine waking up among the vineyards, watching the sunrise over the Blue Ridge Mountains, and experiencing the peaceful rhythm of a working winery. It’s an opportunity to fully disconnect from daily life and immerse yourself in Virginia wine country.
Planning Your Visit
Hours:
- Wednesday-Thursday: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday-Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed Monday & Tuesday
What to Expect:
- Custom wine tastings – $15 for any 4 wines of your choice
- Family-friendly atmosphere with activities for kids
- Pet-friendly outdoor areas (leashed dogs welcome)
- Seasonal events throughout the year
- Light snacks available or bring your own picnic
- Stunning photo opportunities throughout the property
Why Lovingston Should Be on Your Nelson 29 Itinerary
Lovingston Winery offers something truly special on the Nelson 29 trail—an authentic Virginia farm experience where exceptional wine meets genuine hospitality. Here’s what makes it unmissable:
Unique Atmosphere: The combination of historic farmhouse tasting, working farm environment, and friendly animals creates an experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Quality & Authenticity: 100% estate-grown wines mean every sip reflects the exact terroir of this beautiful Nelson County location.
Special Events: From the famous Corgi races to elegant tea services, there’s always something unexpected happening.
Family Experience: One of the few wineries where kids are not just tolerated but genuinely welcomed and entertained.
Instagram-Worthy Setting: Every corner of the property offers stunning photo opportunities, from vineyard vistas to adorable farm animals.
The beauty of Lovingston lies in its ability to make every visitor feel like they’ve discovered a hidden gem. Whether you’re a serious wine enthusiast, a family looking for a fun day out, or someone seeking a peaceful escape in Virginia’s countryside, Lovingston delivers an experience that feels both special and authentic.
Make Lovingston Part of Your Nelson 29 Adventure
Lovingston Winery perfectly embodies what makes the Nelson 29 Craft Beverage Trail special—authentic Virginia experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Located conveniently along the trail route, it’s an ideal stop whether you’re beginning your day of exploration or looking for the perfect place to unwind.
The combination of exceptional estate-grown wines, unique events, genuine farm hospitality, and stunning Blue Ridge Mountain scenery creates memories that last long after your visit. This is Virginia wine country at its most authentic—where every glass tells the story of the land, and every visit feels like coming home.
Ready to experience the magic of Lovingston Winery? Visit their website for current wine selections, upcoming events, and lodging reservations. Follow them on social media to stay updated on their famous Corgi races and other special events throughout the year.
