OVERVIEW:

This is one of the most popular wine regions of the state because of its proximity to Washington, D.C., just 40 miles to the east. In addition, the District’s Northern Virginia suburbs - population 3.2 million - are one of the wealthiest and most educated parts of the country. Vineyard hopping is a popular weekend activity, and many vineyards have sprung up to serve the demand. Quality may vary, so be picky.

The most renowned vineyard in the AVA, RdV, is located in the southern part of the AVA, relatively far from populated areas.

SOILS: 

The best sites for grape cultivation (about two-thirds of the AVA) are deep, well-drained soils with granite and gneiss bedrock. Compared to the rest of Northern Virginia, these soils have lower fertility and availability to water. Grape vines tend to do better when stressed.

CLIMATE:

Compared to Leesburg to the east or Winchester to the West, the Middleburg AVA has cooler highs during the summer and warmers lows during the winter. On the downside, the AVA tends to have more rainfall during the growing season than other areas of Northern Virginia. 

TERRAIN:

The Middleburg AVA is situated between the Blue Ridge Mountains to the west and the Catoctin and Bull Run Mountains to the east.  Like much of Northern Virginia west of the fall line, it has rolling hills, woods and creeks.  It is some of the prettiest countryside in the region.

Elevation ranges from 220 feet (along the Potomac River shoreline) to 1470 feet at Naked Mountain. Most of the rolling hills within the AVA are at 450-550 feet elevation.