Delaplane Cellars is a premier boutique winery located in the heart of Northern Virginia’s wine country. Situated on the side of Lost Mountain, this vineyard is widely recognized for its high-elevation views and its commitment to producing high-quality, estate-grown wines. Whether you are a local resident or a traveler exploring the Middleburg American Viticultural Area (AVA), Delaplane Cellars offers a refined atmosphere for enjoying some of the best viticulture the region has to offer.
Visitors are often drawn to the winery not only for the wine but also for the panoramic views of the Cobbler Mountain and the surrounding valley. The facility focuses on providing a peaceful and sophisticated environment, making it a popular choice for couples and small groups. This guide provides all the practical information you need to plan a successful trip to this destination.
The History and Philosophy of Delaplane Cellars
Delaplane Cellars was established with the goal of producing premium wines that reflect the unique characteristics of Virginia’s soil and climate. The vineyard spans approximately 32 acres, with a significant portion dedicated to growing traditional European grape varieties, also known as Vitis vinifera.
The winemaking philosophy at Delaplane emphasizes minimal intervention and careful vineyard management. By focusing on low yields and hand-harvesting, the winery ensures that only the best fruit is used in production. This dedication to quality has earned the winery numerous accolades and a reputation as a serious producer in the Virginia wine industry.
What to Expect When You Visit
When you arrive at Delaplane Cellars, you will find a modern, airy tasting room designed to maximize the views of the landscape. The architecture features large windows and clean lines, creating a space that feels both elegant and comfortable. There are several distinct areas for visitors to enjoy.
- The Tasting Room: An indoor space where you can enjoy guided tastings or wine by the glass.
- The Deck: An expansive outdoor seating area that offers some of the best views in the region.
- The Tasting Flight: Most visitors opt for a wine flight, which allows you to sample a curated selection of current releases.
The atmosphere is generally quiet and relaxed. To maintain this environment, the winery often has specific policies regarding group sizes and noise levels. It is an ideal spot for those looking for a sophisticated tasting experience rather than a high-energy social scene.
Wine Varieties Produced
Delaplane Cellars specializes in both red and white wines, with a heavy focus on Bordeaux-style blends. Because the vineyard is located at a higher elevation, the grapes benefit from better drainage and airflow, which contributes to the complexity of the wine.
White Wines
The white wine selection typically includes crisp, refreshing options that are perfect for warm weather. Common offerings include:
- Chardonnay: Often aged in French oak to provide a balanced, buttery finish.
- Sauvignon Blanc: Known for its bright acidity and citrus notes.
- Viognier: The state grape of Virginia, offering floral aromas and a full body.
Red Wines
The red wines at Delaplane are often bold and structured, designed for aging. Key varietals include:
- Cabernet Franc: A standout variety in Virginia that offers earthy tones and red fruit flavors.
- Petit Verdot: Often used in blends but also produced as a powerful standalone varietal.
- Merlot: Used to add softness and fruitiness to the estate’s signature blends.
- Bordeaux Blends: These are the flagship wines of the estate, often named after local landmarks or historical figures.
Planning Your Trip: Hours and Reservations
To ensure a smooth visit, it is important to understand the winery’s operating procedures. Like many boutique wineries in Northern Virginia, Delaplane Cellars often requires or strongly recommends reservations, especially on weekends and holidays.
Operating Hours: The winery is typically open from Thursday through Monday, usually from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM. They are often closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so always check their official website before driving out.
Reservation Policy: Reservations can usually be made online. This guarantees you a table for a specific period, typically 90 minutes to two hours. Walk-ins may be accepted if space permits, but during peak fall and spring seasons, the winery frequently reaches capacity.
Group Sizes: Delaplane Cellars generally caters to smaller parties. Groups larger than six or eight people may require special arrangements or may be restricted to specific areas of the property to ensure all guests have a tranquil experience.
Food and Dining Options
While Delaplane Cellars is primarily a winery, they do offer light food pairings to accompany your tasting. Their menu typically includes artisanal cheese plates, charcuterie boards, and locally sourced crackers or bread. These snacks are designed to complement the flavors of the wine.
Outside Food Policy: It is important to note that Delaplane Cellars generally does not allow outside food or coolers in the tasting room or on the deck. If you are planning a full picnic, you may need to visit a local park before or after your tasting. This policy helps the winery maintain its focus on the wine and professional service.
Important Visitor Policies
To ensure the safety and comfort of all guests, Delaplane Cellars maintains a few specific house rules. Being aware of these will help you have a better experience.
- Age Requirement: The winery is often geared toward adults. While children may be allowed in certain areas, many visitors prefer the winery for its adult-oriented atmosphere. Always check the current policy if you plan to bring minors.
- Pet Policy: Dogs are often permitted in specific outdoor areas but must remain on a leash at all times. They are generally not allowed inside the tasting room.
- Smoking: Smoking and vaping are typically restricted to designated areas far from the main seating and tasting zones.
- Alcohol Consumption: By law, only wine purchased at Delaplane Cellars can be consumed on the property. Bringing outside alcohol (including beer or wine from other vineyards) is strictly prohibited.
The Wine Club Membership
For those who find they particularly enjoy the wines, Delaplane Cellars offers a wine club. Membership provides several benefits that make it attractive for regular visitors. These benefits typically include:
- Discounts: Members receive a percentage off bottle purchases and glass pours.
- Exclusive Access: Some small-lot wines are reserved specifically for club members.
- Complimentary Tastings: Members often receive a set number of free or discounted tastings per month.
- Special Events: The winery hosts member-only pick-up parties and seasonal events.
How to Get There
Delaplane Cellars is located at 2187 Winchester Road, Delaplane, VA 20144. It is approximately a 60-to-90-minute drive from Washington, D.C., depending on traffic. The most common route is via I-66 West, taking the exit for Route 17 North. The drive is scenic and takes you through the rolling hills of Virginia’s horse country.
Parking is available on-site, though the lot can fill up quickly on busy Saturdays. If you are using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft, be aware that while you can easily get dropped off, securing a return ride from the rural Delaplane area can be difficult. It is often better to have a designated driver or book a local car service in advance.
Summary of Your Visit
A visit to Delaplane Cellars is about more than just drinking wine; it is about enjoying the natural beauty of Virginia in a refined setting. By planning ahead with a reservation and understanding the house policies, you can ensure a relaxing and educational afternoon. Whether you are a connoisseur of red blends or just looking for a beautiful view, this winery provides a high-quality experience for all visitors.
If you found this guide helpful, you may also want to explore our articles on other Virginia travel destinations, tips for wine tasting etiquette, or how to store your wine collection at home for maximum freshness.