The World Is Taking Notice
From Wine Enthusiast and Travel + Leisure to Food & Wine, Slate, Decanter, and Le Cordon Bleu Paris, discover why the Monticello AVA is one of America's most celebrated wine regions.
Hark Vineyards Wins the 2026 Monticello Cup
The Monticello Wine Trail is proud to announce Hark Vineyards' 2023 Cabernet Franc as the winner of the 34th Annual Monticello Cup Competition, revealed during the Gold Medal Celebration at Boar's Head Resort as part of Monticello Wine Week.
The Monticello Cup is the highest honor awarded by the Monticello Wine Trail, representing 44 wineries across the Monticello American Viticultural Area (AVA), the heart of Virginia's thriving wine industry. Judged through multiple rounds of blind tasting by an esteemed panel of wine professionals, the competition recognizes the wine that best exemplifies excellence in viticulture, winemaking, and regional expression.
Hark's winning 2023 Cabernet Franc reflects the variety's continued success in Virginia. As winemaker AJ Greely shared, "It is a very fruit-forward wine, but it has enough structure, enough acid, to age for another 10 or 15 years."
Cabernet Franc continues to define Virginia wine, with nearly 650 acres planted statewide and the variety also earning the 2026 Virginia Governor's Cup, further cementing its place as the Commonwealth's signature grape.
Congratulations to Hark Vineyards and all of the 2026 Gold Medal, Case, and Cup winners for showcasing the exceptional quality and diversity of wines produced throughout the Monticello AVA.
2026 Recognition
Le Cordon Bleu Paris
Old World, New Roots blind tasting
8 of the top 12 Virginia wines from the Monticello AVA
Barboursville Octagon receives the only perfect score
Wine Enthusiast
"America's Best Wine Road Trips"
The Monticello Wine Trail featured as one of the country's premier wine destinations.
Food & Wine
"The History of American Wine in 25 Bottles"
Barboursville Vineyards recognized as representing the modern era of Virginia wine.
Slate
"Toast America the Way Thomas Jefferson Intended"
Explores Jefferson's vision and how today's Virginia wine industry has fulfilled it.
Travel + Leisure
"20 Best Places to Visit in Virginia, According to Locals"
Charlottesville and the Monticello Wine Trail featured as a must-visit destination.
Decanter World Wine Awards
The Monticello AVA received international recognition at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards, earning 26 medals across 10 wineries in one of the world's most prestigious wine competitions.
Judged through a rigorous blind tasting by an international panel of Masters of Wine, Master Sommeliers, and leading wine experts, this year's competition featured nearly 17,000 wines from 58 countries. Monticello wineries earned 4 Gold, 13 Silver, and 9 Bronze medals, highlighting the exceptional quality and consistency of wines produced throughout the region.
The award-winning wines represented a diverse range of varieties and styles, including Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Petit Manseng, Viognier, Merlot, Nebbiolo, sparkling wine, and rosé, demonstrating the remarkable versatility of the Monticello AVA.
These results mark another significant milestone for the region and reflect the dedication of the growers and winemakers who continue to elevate Virginia wine on the international stage. Combined with recent recognition from Le Cordon Bleu Paris, Wine Enthusiast, Food & Wine, Travel + Leisure, and Slate, the Decanter results further reinforce the Monticello AVA's growing reputation as one of America's premier wine destinations.
Charlottesville Named Wine Enthusiast’s 2023 Wine Region of the year
Wine Enthusiast names Charlottesville and the Monticello AVA 2023 Wine Region of the Year !
On behalf of the entire Monticello American Viticultural Area (AVA), we are delighted to announce that Charlottesville has been honored as Wine Enthusiast's 2023 Wine Region of the Year. The prestigious global recognition underscores Charlottesville's position as a premier destination for wine enthusiasts, highlighting the outstanding quality and diversity of the wines within the Monticello AVA and those who produce them. We applaud the collective efforts of our community, comprised of over 40 wineries in Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Orange, and Nelson counties where more than half of all Virginia vineyards are planted.
The award from Wine Enthusiast, one of the industry's leading authorities, recognizes Charlottesville's unique terroir, passion of its winemakers, and the collaborative spirit that defines the Monticello AVA. For over fifty years the Monticello AVA has attracted talents from the United States, France, Italy, South Africa, and beyond. From multi-generational winemaking families to passionate newcomers, our collaborative environment exemplifies a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and diversity. We recognize that our diversity is the foundation to crafting our exceptional and distinctive wines.
"We are thrilled to receive the esteemed title of Wine Enthusiast's 2023 Wine Region of the Year. This global acknowledgment honors our exceptional wines and the incredible experiences that Charlottesville and the Monticello AVA has to offer,” said Stephen Bernard, Monticello Wine Trail Association President. "From the rolling hills of our vineyards to the warmth of our hospitality, Charlottesville is truly a destination where the art of winemaking converges with a rich cultural tapestry. We are immensely proud of our winemakers, vineyard managers, and all those who have played a part in shaping Charlottesville into a world-class wine destination."
The Monticello Wine Trail invites wine lovers from around the globe to explore the unique flavors, picturesque vineyards, and warm hospitality that has earned Charlottesville Wine Enthusiast’s 2023 Wine Region of the Year. Whether savoring elegant Cabernet Franc, bold Petit Verdot, floral Viognier, classic Chardonnay and Merlot, or emerging varieties like Petit Manseng and more, our wineries offer unforgettable tasting experiences. Beyond the exquisite wines produced by the Monticello AVA, Charlottesville and the surrounding areas boast a captivating blend of scenic landscapes, historical charm, and vibrant culinary scene. Visitors can indulge in outstanding vintages, vineyard tours, wine and food pairings, and cultural events. Charlottesville's diverse and world-class offerings have solidified its standing as a premier destination for wine enthusiasts.
As a testament to the region's prominence, Barboursville Vineyards was nominated for American Winery of the Year, adding another layer of distinction to our collective achievements. This recognition further underscores the caliber of winemaking talent present in the Monticello AVA and positions the region as a powerhouse in the global wine landscape.