WINE ENTHUSIAST
2023 WINE REGION OF THE YEAR
CHARLOTTESVILLE AND THE MONTICELLO AVA
Upcoming Events
There are lots of other events happening along the trail throughout the year as well. Take a look at our upcoming events page to see what the wineries are up to and other events happening along the Wine Trail.
Hark Vineyards Wins the 2026 Monticello Cup!
The Monticello Wine Trail is proud to announce that Hark Vineyards' 2023 Cabernet Franc has been awarded the 2026 Monticello Cup, the region's highest wine honor.
Presented during the annual Gold Medal Celebration at Boar's Head Resort as part of Monticello Wine Week, the Monticello Cup recognizes the top wine from the annual Monticello Cup Competition after multiple rounds of blind judging by an esteemed panel of wine professionals.
Hark's 2023 Cabernet Franc stood out among an exceptional field of entries, showcasing the quality, craftsmanship, and distinctive character that continue to define the Monticello American Viticultural Area.
In addition to the Monticello Cup winner, twelve wines were recognized as 2026 Monticello Cup Case Winners, representing the highest-scoring wines across a range of styles.
2026 Monticello Cup Case Winners
Afton Mountain Vineyards — 2024 Rosé Sparkling Wine
Barboursville Vineyards — 2023 Nebbiolo Reserve
Chestnut Oak Vineyard — 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon
Eastwood Farm and Winery — 2025 Rosé
Fallen Tree Vineyard and Farm — 2021 Meritage
Flying Fox Vineyard and Winery — 2023 Trio
Hark Vineyards — 2023 Cabernet Franc (2026 Monticello Cup Winner)
Hark Vineyards — 2024 Roussanne
Hazy Mountain Vineyards — 2024 Albariño
King Family Vineyards — 2022 Mountain Plains Red
Southwest Mountains Vineyards — 2023 Cabernet Franc Reserve
Veritas Vineyards and Winery — 2023 Monticello White
"Serving as organizer of the Monticello Cup for the seventh year has given me a unique opportunity to watch this region mature into one of the country's premier wine destinations. The wines honored this year are a testament to the talent, passion, and relentless commitment to quality that define the Monticello Wine Trail," said Frank Morgan, Monticello Cup Competition Director.
Congratulations to Hark Vineyards and to all of this year's Gold Medal, Case, and Cup winners. Together, they represent the exceptional quality, innovation, and collaborative spirit that continue to make the Monticello AVA one of America's premier wine regions.
We invite you to visit these award-winning wineries, meet the people behind the wines, and experience the Monticello Wine Trail for yourself.
Big news for Virginia wine, and for the Monticello AVA.
Congratulations to Valley Road Vineyards for winning the 2026 Virginia Governor’s Cup with their 2023 Cabernet Franc Reserve, crafted by winemaker Corry Craighill.
This victory marks a remarkable milestone: the fourth consecutive year that a wine from the Monticello AVA has taken home the Governor’s Cup, continuing the region’s momentum as one of the most exciting wine regions in the country.
The Monticello AVA was also strongly represented in this year’s Governor’s Case, with six of the twelve wines produced by wineries from the Monticello Wine Trail in Central Virginia: Barboursville Vineyards, Michael Shaps Wineworks, Pollak Vineyards, Trump Winery, Valley Road Vineyards, and Woodbrook Farm Vineyard.
A huge congratulations to all of the growers, winemakers, and teams whose dedication continues to elevate Virginia wine!
Plan your visit
Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s wine country, the Monticello Wine Trail is home to more than 40 acclaimed wineries, all within a short drive of Charlottesville. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a day trip, you’ll find a vibrant mix of tasting experiences, from intimate vineyard tours to lively festivals and concerts under the stars. Meet passionate winemakers, savor award-winning wines, and explore the rich history and stunning landscapes that define this renowned wine region. Start planning your visit and discover why the Monticello Wine Trail is the birthplace of American wine.
Wine Enthusiast names Charlottesville and the Monticello AVA
2023 Wine Region of the Year
Charlottesville and the Monticello American Viticultural Area (AVA) have been named Wine Enthusiast’s 2023 Wine Region of the Year. The award recognizes over 40 wineries in the Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Orange, and Nelson counties. The Monticello AVA, with a history of over fifty years, is celebrated for its unique terroir, passionate winemakers, and collaborative spirit. This global acknowledgment highlights the region’s position as a premier destination for wine enthusiasts.
For full press release, click here.
Come Discover the Birthplace of American Wine.
