A Hidden Gem in Virginia

     Ok, so this post is not about something I have been able to cross off my bucket list, it's more of a side note that goes along with my Napa Valley post.  I am sure that Napa is on a lot of people's bucket list; however finding the time/money/etc to fly all the way out to the west coast for this only reason can make it seem like less of a priority for most.  If you have never been to the west coast there's just so much more to see than rolling hills and good wine....completely understandable.  So if you enjoy wine (and obviously you do otherwise there's no way we could get along...) but havn't been able to make it out to wine country, and especially if you live on the east coast-than this post is for you!!

     Charlottesville, Virginia...I was absolutely blown away by this city! I had driven right by it on the highway and never knew what this city had to offer....First of all its a college town, home of UVA Cavilers, and who doesn't love a college atmosphere? Not to mention happy hour in a college atmosphere? Makes me very jealous actually. Not only that but the city is full of history, very laid back and there is also so much to do outside of the college campus.  Downtown scene is so cute with cobblestone & lined with coffee shops, restaurants/bars, boutiques, etc.

     I recently visited Charlottesville for a Bachelorette party....I know, I thought the same thing.  Who goes to Charlottesville for a bachelorette party?? It was actually one of the most fun locations for a Bachelorette party that I've ever been to!! We rented a limo and did wine tastings all day-so much fun!

with Julia Gallagher,  Hannah Stair, Jordan Smith, Future Miss Collins, Laura Wainwright, Allie Greenan, Stephanie Girard, Karen Good, & Lyndsey Crooke

     Nestled between the Blue Ridge & Southwest Mountains (gorgeous views everywhere!), it is becoming the "East Coast Napa Valley"-that's a term deemed by the wine makers not me.  There are over 100 vineyards (I had no idea!) & wineries to tour and attend tastings.  The tastings are very reasonably priced; ranging from 5-15$ each place (way cheaper than Napa tastings!!) and offer a lot of information about the process of wine making.  Obviously I was spoiled by going to Napa just 3 weeks prior to this trip; however it was more than I expected and had I gone to Charlottesville first I am sure I would have been blown away!  So all you East Coast Wine Lovers...mark down Charlottesville, Virginia on your bucket list; I promise you won't be disappointed by taking the time to visit this hidden gem.

Cheers to Megan & Brent 6*9*12!

with Lyndsey Crooke & Megan Jenkins

BUCKET LIST UPDATE:

• I am crossing off Grape smashing with feet because apparently they don't do that anymore; I have asked literally every vineyard that I have been to! If you hear of some place that still does this-let me know!
• In talking with a few girls at the bachelorette party, I have decided to add "Nantucket & Martha's Vineyard" to my bucket list.  One of these days a trip Northeast and I can knock those out along with Visit Boston & See a game at Fenway Park.