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The Loudoun County (Virginia) Economic Development Department had to print a second run of The Loudoun Wine Trail guide after exhausting its initial 51,000 copies of this year’s brochure. There are now 15 wineries along the trail (now accepting guests by appointment, Notaviva Vineyards will open its tasting room next summer). The oldest winery, Willowcroft Farm Vineyards, began making wine in 1981.

“Back in those days, the [state agricultural] extension service told me I couldn’t do it, but they were wrong,” says Willowcroft owner Lew Parker. “I was aware of changes in the technology of grape growing that I thought would make it possible.” Now, he says, the Loudoun wine business is “skyrocketing,” with the growth of wineries attracting more and more visitors to historic properties with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, most within an hour of Washington, D.C.

“The jury is still out on what will be Virginia’s signature varietal,” he continues. “Cabernet Franc is being very well received.” The area’s predominant wine is Chardonnay, and Willowcroft also enjoys success with Riesling.