Boozing it up in Loudoun County, Virginia
Loudoun County, Virginia, is a great escape from the big city for those in the Washington, DC area, as well as further afield. It is particularly those who enjoy some good booze. Loudoun has a great combination of wineries, breweries, and even distilleries for the discerning boozehound. We’ve had a few opportunities to visit the area recently and thought we might recommend some of the best places to check out.
Zephaniah Farm Winery
For those tired of the same old tasting rooms, this family farm south of Leesburg is a great antidote. Here you can sample the product of the surrounding vineyards in the cozy living room of a farmhouse dating from 1820. Old photographs cover the walls. The owner will describe the wines for you prior to tastings, but they will also explain the family’s long history. He pointed out the pictures on the wall of the farm’s founder, the mustachioed steamship captain Zephaniah, as well as his other ancestors. The wine was great too!
Vanish Farmwoods Brewery
Loudoun County is best known for its wineries, but beer lovers will also find plenty of options. Vanish Farmwoods Brewery has a large building with a huge number of craft beer options. Popular options range from the “Ghost Fleet IPA” to the “Mango Smoothie”, but there really is something for everyone. It’s even dog friendly! The place is packed with both humans and dogs on weekends, so get there early.
8 Chains North Winery
Speaking of Dog Friendly, this Loudoun County Winery has a dog park attached to its tasting room. Patrons can classily sip the local sauvignon blanc while their dogs frolic in the sunshine. The setting is incredible, with views of rolling fields, ponds, and horses. In areas like Loudoun County that have plenty of wineries it’s hard for one to stand out. 8 Chains definitely stood out as the only tasting room where my leg was humped by a horny bulldog. I recommend the little chocolates they sell as an accompaniment to the wines.
Vino 9 Market
If you’re hungry after a hard afternoon of drinking, stop by Vino 9 Market, a great quirky barbecue spot. It’s easy to find in the little Loudoun County village of Paeonian Springs. Not only do they have some very good barbecue, they have a great selection of craft beers and ciders. The real decider from our perspective was that the large courtyard is dog friendly, too! This was a great end to a day out with our good friend Bilbo.
…And More!
If whiskey is more your jam, take a trip out to Purcellville to the Catoctin Creek Distillery. Out of Loudoun County’s 23 operating craft breweries, probably the best known is Lost Rhino Brewing Company in Ashburn. We’ve named a couple of wineries here, but those who love tasting vino can spend many a weekend traveling the busy Loudoun County Wine Trail. There are currently over 40 wineries in the county, each with its own flavors on offer!
