2026 Virginia Governor’s Cup Best Wines & Ciders from the Shenandoah Valley
In the Shenandoah Valley, wines are prized for their rich fruit flavors, balanced acidity, and structured tannins. Varietals such as Cabernet Franc, Viognier and Petit Verdot thrive in the valley’s fertile soils. Ciders from the region are crisp and aromatic, often highlighting local apples with subtle spice and a touch of natural sweetness..
- Barren Ridge Vineyards (4) – 2019 Meritage, 2022 Petit Verdot, 2023 Chardonnay, 2024 Viognier
- Bluestone Vineyard (3) – 2023 Cabernet Franc, 2023 Houndstooth, 2024 Oaked Chardonnay
- Brix & Columns Vineyards (1) – 2024 Cabernet Franc
- Cave Ridge Vineyard (2) – 2023 Pinot Noir, 2024 Albariño
- Ciders from Mars (1) – XRF
- Common Wealth Crush Co (1) – 2023 Tannat Trot Rock
- CrossKeys Vineyards (4) – Blanc de Noir, 2024 Cabernet Franc, 2024 Casa Nikoo, 2024 Oaked Chardonnay
- Ecco Adesso Vineyards (1) – 2022 Old World Cabernet Franc
- Glen Manor Vineyards (1) – 2023 Vin Rouge
- Muse Vineyards (3) – 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2021 Petit Verdot, 2022 Vin Gris de Gamay
- Noer Vineyards (2) – 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, 2024 Semillon
- Reitano Vineyards (1) – 2024 Sparkling Cider
- Rockbridge Vineyard & Brewery (3) – 2019 DeChiel Reserve Meritage, 2021 DeChiel Reserve Cabernet Franc, 2022 DeChiel Reserve Chardonnay
- Sage Bird Ciderworks (2) – Folklore Pet Nat, Kingston Black
- Shenandoah Vineyards (3) – 2021 Lemberger, 2021 Reserve Red, 2023 Cabernet Franc
- Slater Run Vineyards (1) – 2025 Pétillant Naturel Sparkling Rosé
- Wolf Gap Vineyard & Winery (1) – 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2024 Sauvignon Blanchttps://wineandcountrylife.com/2026-governors-cup-gold/
