2023 Merlot is named to VinePair’s The 20 Best Merlots of 2026

2023 Norton wins Gold medals at the 2026 Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition and the 2026 American Heritage Wine Competition

2023 TANA Chardonnay is named to VinePair’s The 30 Best Chardonnays for 2026

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Wine Tastings, Events & Vineyard Experience

An Award-Winning Mountainside Vineyard and Winery

DuCard Vineyards is an award-winning, family-owned vineyard and winery tucked along the edge of Shenandoah National Park in Madison County, Virginia. Just north of Charlottesville, about 90 minutes from Northern Virginia, and under two hours from Richmond, it’s a place where exceptional Virginia wine, mountain scenery, and genuine hospitality come together.

Unlike traditional tasting rooms, every wine tasting experience begins with a flight served at your table by a knowledgeable wine ambassador in crystal glassware. Take in the Blue Ridge views, discover handcrafted Virginia wine, and enjoy an unhurried sojourn that reflects the warmth and character of our award-winning winery.

There’s always something happening at DuCard. From relaxing afternoons with a glass of our wine to seasonal traditions and live music, our boutique winery is a place where great wine, beautiful scenery, and meaningful experiences come together.

Our Boutique Virginia Winery Culture

The short videos below offer a glimpse into life at our scenic winery, introducing some elements of our unique operation.

DuCard Vineyards Welcome

DuCard Vineyards Welcome

Take a quick tour of our boutique winery, meet the team, and see what makes a wine tasting experience at DuCard different from the moment you arrive.

Stomp Ballet – Timeless

Stomp Ballet – Timeless

Every harvest brings one of our favorite traditions to life. Watch guests celebrate the season during our annual grape stomp, an event that captures the fun, community, and excitement behind every vintage.

DuCard Music Video

DuCard Music Video

Live music is part of the DuCard experience throughout the year. This video highlights the relaxed atmosphere, mountain setting, and memorable moments that make DuCard one of the favorite things to do at a winery in Central Virginia.

Virginia's Award-Winning, Green & Family-Friendly Winery

Every visit to DuCard reflects the qualities that have made us one of the premier Central Virginia wineries. From nationally recognized wines to sustainable vineyard practices and welcoming hospitality, we’ve created a destination where exceptional wine and memorable experiences go hand in hand.

Award-Winning Winery

Our award-winning winery has earned recognition from respected regional and national competitions, with...

Award-Winning Winery

Our award-winning winery has earned recognition from respected regional and national competitions, with numerous Gold Medals and top-tier rated wines. Every bottle is handcrafted from Madison County grapes, showcasing the character of Virginia wine country and our commitment to quality.

Sustainable Vineyard

Recognized as a Virginia Green sustainable vineyard and winery, we're dedicated to protecting the land that...

Sustainable Vineyard

Recognized as a Virginia Green sustainable vineyard and winery, we're dedicated to protecting the land that makes our wines possible. From environmentally responsible farming practices to conservation initiatives, sustainability is part of everything we do.

Dog-Friendly & Family-Friendly Winery

Whether you're visiting with friends, family, or your four-legged companion, DuCard....

Dog-Friendly & Family-Friendly Winery

Whether you're visiting with friends, family, or your four-legged companion, DuCard offers a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Our dog-friendly and family-friendly winery features spacious outdoor seating, inviting guests of all ages to relax, explore, and enjoy the beauty of Madison County together.

A Harvest Hosts Favorite

We're proud to be a participating Harvest Hosts winery, welcoming travelers from across the country...

A Harvest Hosts Favorite

We're proud to be a participating Harvest Hosts winery, welcoming travelers from across the country who are exploring Virginia wine country. It's one more way we're able to share our hospitality with visitors looking for an unforgettable stop along their journey.

Award-Winning Virginia Wines

Every bottle at DuCard begins in one of our three Madison County vineyard sites and is handcrafted on-site using traditional winemaking methods. We grow the grapes, make the wine, and pour every glass ourselves, creating authentic Virginia wines that reflects the character of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park.

Explore a rotating selection of featured wines below, including celebrated whites, bold reds, and sparkling favorites recognized at some of the industry’s most respected competitions.

Label for DuCard Vineyards XOXO Blanc de Blancs 2022 Virginia Sparkling Wine, 12% alcohol by volume, featuring a minimalist mountain and crescent moon design above the winery name.

2022 XOXO

Current Vintage

The 2022 XOXO – Hugs and Kisses – is the newest vintage of our sparkling wine.  Made from 100% Viognier, this wine is the perfect addition to any celebration OR just because -why not?! $50

Wine label for DuCard Vineyards featuring pink hills, a crescent moon, and white text reading CEST TROP 2022 Virginia Red Wine 18% ALC. BY VOL. on a dark background.

2022 C'est Trop

Current Release

Port-style red wine utilizing Norton grapes, fortified with brandy and aged in whisky barrels. With clove and violet tones and rich, smooth taste it is indeed entirely “too much.” $45

Label for DuCard Vineyards Pet gNat Virginia Sparkling Wine, 2024, featuring a bee surrounded by bubbles. The label has a stylized mountain and vineyard logo, and states 12% ALC. BY VOL. at the bottom.

2024 Pet gNat

Fun, with fizz! This wilder version of sparkling wine is crisp, refreshing, full of citrus, and yeasty! We’ve given the name a tongue-in-cheek twist and are sure it’s going to be your summertime favorite! $36

Ducard Dorothy's Slippers

2020 Dorothy's Slippers

Current Vintage

It’s sparkly. It’s ruby red. It’s fun. Dorothy’s Slippers uses our Norton grapes that are grown, harvested and fermented by DuCard’s wizards for your enchantment. After all, there’s no place like DuCard, there’s no place like DuCard… $46

Two bottles of DuCard wine, Black Bear and Shenandoah, sit outdoors on a stone surface with green foliage in the background. The wine labels feature wildlife and scenic artwork, perfect for your Shenandoah Pack or National Park Pack adventure.

Shenandoah National Park Pack

Drinking for a cause in more way than one!!

Our red and white wine tribute to the Shenandoah National Park (SNP) comes complete with special labels and a donation to the SNP Trust. The 2024 Black Bear is a red blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Tannat and was named by VinePair to their list of The 30 Best Red Blends for 2026. The 2025 Shenandoah White Wine is a blend of Vidal Blanc, Chardonnay, and Viognier and is off-dry. A portion of the proceeds from each bottle is donated to the trust. Cheers! $80

Table-Side Wine Tasting Experience

At DuCard, every wine tasting experience is designed to help you slow down and enjoy the moment. Instead of standing at a crowded tasting bar, you’ll be welcomed to your table, where one of our knowledgeable wine ambassadors guides you through each flight at a comfortable pace.

It’s a relaxed, full-service approach that lets you focus on great wine, good company, and unforgettable mountain views.

Table-Side-Wine-Tasting-Experience

Full-Service Wine Flights

Our full-service wine flights are served tableside in crystal glassware, allowing you to taste each wine as it’s introduced. Whether you’re discovering a new favorite or comparing vintages, you’ll have time to ask questions, learn about our wines, and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.

Beautiful Places to Sip and Relax

Choose the setting that fits your visit. Enjoy outdoor wine tasting on our back lawn, stream-side deck, or covered pavilion, or settle into our comfortable indoor tasting room. Every seating area offers its own perspective of the surrounding Blue Ridge landscape.

Award-Winning Wines

Every tasting features handcrafted Virginia wine made from grapes grown in our three Madison County vineyard sites. As an award-winning winery, we’re proud to produce wine that reflects the character of our land and the traditions of Virginia winemaking.

Walk-Ins Welcome

Whether you’re planning ahead or making a spontaneous stop after exploring Shenandoah National Park or Old Rag Mountain, we’re happy to welcome you. Reservations are recommended on busy weekends, but walk-ins are always invited to enjoy our wine tasting experience.

Winery Events & Live Music in Madison County

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for a great afternoon in Virginia wine country, DuCard hosts winery events throughout the year. Enjoy live music, wine dinners, seasonal celebrations, and exclusive experiences, all set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

This Weekend at DuCard
Upcoming Events
See what’s happening over the next few days, from live performances to special tastings and seasonal events.

Norton Showcase – Presented by Norton Network – Grand Norton Tasting
7 Nov

Norton Showcase – Presented by Norton Network – Grand Norton Tasting

calendar icon November 7, 2026
clock icon 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

The Norton Showcase – Presented by Norton Network Date: November 7,...

Music in the Mountains by Mike Proffitt
7 Nov

Music in the Mountains by Mike Proffitt

calendar icon November 7, 2026
clock icon 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Come on out and join us on this beautiful fall...

Music In The Mountains with Acoustic Aubrey
8 Nov

Music In The Mountains with Acoustic Aubrey

calendar icon November 8, 2026
clock icon 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Join us for Music in the Mountains from “Acoustic” Aubrey....

Browse our full calendar of upcoming Virginia winery events and start planning your next visit.

Norton Showcase – Presented by Norton Network – Grand Norton Tasting
7 Nov

Norton Showcase – Presented by Norton Network – Grand Norton Tasting

calendar icon November 7, 2026
clock icon 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

The Norton Showcase – Presented by Norton Network Date: November 7,...

Music in the Mountains by Mike Proffitt
7 Nov

Music in the Mountains by Mike Proffitt

calendar icon November 7, 2026
clock icon 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Come on out and join us on this beautiful fall...

Music In The Mountains with Acoustic Aubrey
8 Nov

Music In The Mountains with Acoustic Aubrey

calendar icon November 8, 2026
clock icon 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Join us for Music in the Mountains from “Acoustic” Aubrey....

Music in the Mountains by Scuffletown
14 Nov

Music in the Mountains by Scuffletown

calendar icon November 14, 2026
clock icon 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Come out and join us Saturday afternoon for the rollicking...

Armchair Expedition Viognier 2pm
15 Nov

Armchair Expedition Viognier 2pm

calendar icon November 15, 2026
clock icon 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Often called Virginia’s signature white grape, Viognier is deeply rooted...

Library Wine Deep Dive
20 Nov

Library Wine Deep Dive

calendar icon November 20, 2026
clock icon 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Join us for a special Library Deep Dive tasting as...

Live-Music-Every-Weekend

Live Music Every Weekend

Looking for a winery with live music? Join us every weekend to enjoy local musicians, handcrafted Virginia wine, and mountain views.
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Fridays | 5–8 PM (May–October)
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Saturdays | 2–5 PM (Year-round)
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Second Saturdays | 6–9 PM (May–October)
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Some Sundays throughout the year

An Authentic, Sustainable Virginia Winery

Not every family-owned Virginia winery oversees the entire winemaking process from vine to bottle. At DuCard, that’s exactly how we’ve done it from the beginning. We grow our grapes across three Madison County vineyard sites, harvest them by hand, and craft every wine on-site using traditional techniques.

It’s an approach that’s become increasingly rare and one that allows every bottle of handcrafted Virginia wine to reflect the land where it was grown. As a family-owned winery in Virginia, we’re committed to preserving that land for future generations.

DuCard is proud to have been recognized as Virginia’s Greenest Winery, with environmentally responsible farming practices that support a healthier, sustainable vineyard. Through our Sipping for Saplings program, guests have helped plant more than 2,000 trees, proving that every visit contributes to something bigger than a great glass of wine.

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Guest Reviews & Media Features

The best way to understand the DuCard experience is through the people who’ve lived it. From respected Virginia wine writers to first-time guests, visitors consistently highlight the same qualities: exceptional wines, attentive service, beautiful surroundings, and an atmosphere that invites you to slow down and stay awhile.
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#1 Top-Rated Central Virginia Winery on TripAdvisor
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#1 rated Virginia venue for Harvest Hosts
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“There’s an intentionality to keeping a boutique feel and offering a quality product here… Every staff member was friendly, helpful, and went out of their way to make sure guests were having a good time.”
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“We appreciated the tranquility that this space offered… Quality also prevailed at DuCard Vineyards… a lineup of excellent wines.”
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“This is a winery you can call home. It’s family friendly, picnic friendly, and dog friendly!”
Kath Younger RDN

Kath Younger, RDN

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“Perfect getaway!… The staff were warm and attentive, the musical entertainment provided just the right vibe, and best of all, they were very dog friendly. It could not have been better.”
Michael

Michael C

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“Outstanding wines, setting, people, and entertainment! This winery is a hidden gem!… Bring a picnic, listen to the music, and savor DuCard’s exquisite collection of wine.”
Nefie

Nefie

TripAdvisor

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting DuCard

Planning your first visit? Here are answers to some of the questions we hear most often. For additional details about tastings, events, accessibility, and policies, visit our complete FAQ page.

Do I need a reservation to visit DuCard Vineyards?

Reservations are optional but recommended on weekends and during special events. Walk-ins are always welcome, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you whenever space is available.

Are dogs and families welcome?

Yes. DuCard is a dog-friendly winery that welcomes well-behaved dogs throughout the property. Families are also encouraged to visit and enjoy our spacious outdoor seating, live music, and scenic setting.

Where is DuCard Vineyards located?

You’ll find DuCard at 40 Gibson Hollow Lane, Etlan, VA 22719, on the edge of Shenandoah National Park in Madison County. We’re just north of Charlottesville, about 90 minutes from Northern Virginia, and under two hours from Richmond.

Get driving directions – Driving Directions

Do you ship wine?

Yes. We ship our Virginia wine to many states so you can enjoy your favorite bottles at home. Visit our Current Releases page to view available wines and shipping information.

Can I bring food or a picnic?

Absolutely. Outside food and picnics are welcome, making it easy to enjoy a leisurely afternoon at our scenic winery. We also offer charcuterie boards and light snacks to pair with your wine tasting.

Can I charge my EV?

Yes, we have Tesla and standard EV charging stations, complimentary for customers.

Do you participate in Harvest Hosts?

Yes, members can reserve through the Harvest Host app, and we will welcome you when you arrive.

Plan Your Visit to DuCard

Whether you are exploring Shenandoah National Park, spending the day in the Blue Ridge Mountains, or driving in from Charlottesville, Richmond, or Northern Virginia, DuCard is well worth the trip – just north of Charlottesville, about 90 minutes from Northern Virginia, and under two hours from Richmond. Reserve your table for a relaxed wine tasting, meet friends for live music, celebrate a special occasion, or plan a private gathering – all with award-winning Virginia wine and beautiful views to match. Before you leave, be sure to snap a photo with our iconic LOVE sculpture or purchase a wine gift card for someone special.

Join-the-DuCard-Ambassador-Wine-Club

Join the DuCard Ambassador Wine Club

Some visits deserve an encore. Our Ambassador Wine Club is designed for guests who want to enjoy DuCard long after they’ve returned home – an easy way to stay connected to the vineyard throughout the year through handcrafted Virginia wine and member-only releases.

As a wine club family member, you’ll receive regular wine allocations, access to limited-production wines, invitations to exclusive events, member savings, and convenient pickup or shipping options. Whether you visit often or live a little farther away, the Ambassador Wine Club brings the DuCard experience to you.

There is no fee to join and no internet app to deal with – we provide personal concierge service for all aspects of your club needs.