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+1-540-923-4206
40 Gibson Hollow Ln., Etlan, VA 22719
frequently asked questions

Visiting DuCard

Do I need a reservation to visit?

Reservations are not required, but they are a good idea – especially for a busy Saturday or when your favorite band is playing. Make your reservation here.

Can I walk in without a reservation?
Absolutely. Walk-ins are always welcome during regular hours.
How long can we stay during a visit?
As long as you like. We don’t turn tables – settle in, enjoy the view, and stay at your own pace.
Is parking available and free?

Yes – parking is free and there’s plenty of it. You’ll find reserved handicap parking up front, plus EV charging stations on-site.

Is the winery open year-round?
Yes, with just a handful of exceptions. We are closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Check our website for current hours.
What is the dress code for DuCard Vineyards?

There isn’t one – come as you are. DuCard sits close to hiking trails in Shenandoah National Park, and plenty of guests stop in straight from the trail.

Can I bring my RV to DuCard Vineyards?

Yes. DuCard is a member of the Harvest Hosts program. Make your reservation directly through the Harvest Hosts app.

How do I get to DuCard?
  • DuCard Vineyards is located at 40 Gibson Hollow Lane, Etlan, VA.
    • From Washington, DC and areas north: Take I-66 West to Gainesville; exit onto Rt. 29 South toward Warrenton. Exit at Bus. 29 to Warrenton and follow signs to Rt. 211. Take Rt. 211 West for 28 miles to Sperryville, then turn left on Rt. 522 into town. Stay on 522, follow signs to Rt. 231, go ½ mile, and turn right onto Rt. 231. Continue south for 10 miles to Etlan, then turn right on Rt. 643. Go 2.5 miles to a right on Rt. 719 (Gibson Hollow Lane). Entrance is on the right.
    • From Charlottesville and areas south: Take Rt. 29 North to Madison; turn left on Business Rt. 29/Rt. 231. Turn left onto Rt. 231 North and proceed to Etlan. Turn left on Rt. 643, continue 2.5 miles, then turn right on Rt. 719 (Gibson Hollow Lane). Entrance is on the right.
    • Click here for a printable PDF map.
What is the general vibe at DuCard Vineyards?

Low-key, informal, and genuinely friendly – with gold medal-winning wines, attentive table service, and a stunning mountainside setting. High quality without the pretense.

Wine Tastings & Purchases

What is included in a wine tasting?
Tastings at DuCard are served as wine flights at your table, in crystal glassware, by an experienced wine ambassador. Your ambassador will walk you through each wine, share the story behind it, and answer any questions you have – it’s a conversation, not a transaction.
Do you offer wine flights or table-side tastings?
Yes. All tastings are served as flights at your table – no tasting bar, no self-service. Your wine ambassador brings the experience to you.
Can I buy wine on-site?

Yes. Wine is available for purchase by the glass, bottle, or case. Browse our current releases to see what’s available.

How much does a wine tasting cost?

Wine tasting pricing may vary based on the tasting experience offered. Please visit our reservations page for current tasting options and pricing.

Do you offer wine club memberships?

Yes – and it’s worth it. As a DuCard Wine Club member, you’ll receive a carefully selected collection of our best wines, available for pickup at the winery or delivered right to your doorstep. You’ll also get exclusive invitations to members-only events and enjoy fantastic discounts. Get ready to uncork some incredible experiences.

Do you ship wine outside Virginia?

Yes. DuCard ships to many states outside Virginia. Because shipping laws vary and change frequently, we don’t publish a specific list – but you can check availability and place your order through our current releases page.

Food, Dining & Outside Items

Do you serve food at the winery?
Yes. DuCard offers gourmet charcuterie and cheese boards, a selection of dips (including hummus, French onion, and crab), warm baguettes, artisanal chocolates, and more.
Can we bring our own food or picnic?
Absolutely – outside food and picnics are welcome.
Do you have food trucks or special food events?

On occasion, yes. When a food truck is scheduled, it will be noted in the event write-up. Check our events calendar for upcoming announcements.

Events & Group Visits

Do you host live music or events?

Yes – live music is a long-standing tradition at DuCard. Local musicians perform every Saturday afternoon year-round, plus every Friday evening and the second Saturday evening of the month from May through October. See the full calendar here.

How can I check your event calendar?

Visit our events page for the full schedule of live music, special events, and more.

Do events require tickets or reservations?

Most events are included with your visit and require no ticket. Occasionally, special events are ticketed – check the individual event listing for details. There is never a cover charge for live music at DuCard. Reservations are not required but are recommended for busy weekends and popular nights. Reserve your spot here.

Can you accommodate large groups?

Yes – we can accommodate large groups of nearly any size with advance notice. Inquire about your group or private event here.

Do you offer private events or group tastings?

Yes. While DuCard remains open to the public during all regular hours and never closes for private events, we love hosting groups and can arrange private tastings and vineyard or winery tours with advance notice. Learn more and inquire here.

What is your cancellation or change policy for reservations?
There is no charge to make, change, or cancel a reservation. If your plans change, we simply ask that you let us know with reasonable advance notice so we can plan accordingly.

Family, Pets & Experience

Are children allowed at DuCard Vineyards?
Yes – well-behaved children are always welcome. Complimentary juice boxes and water are available, and there are lawn and indoor games for kids to enjoy. The expansive back lawns are perfect for kicking a soccer ball or throwing a football.
Are pets allowed on the property?
Yes – well-behaved pets are welcome both outdoors and in our tasting room and indoor seating areas.
Are pets allowed indoors?
Yes. Pets are welcome in the tasting room and all indoor seating areas. The one exception is the winery itself, where pets are not permitted.
What should I expect during my visit?
Expect a relaxed, unhurried experience with genuinely warm hospitality. Your wine ambassador will serve your flight at the table, walk you through each pour, and share the story behind the wines. There’s no rush, no dress code, and no pretense – just great wine, beautiful views bordering Shenandoah National Park, and live music on most weekends.
Do you offer vineyard or winery tours?
Yes, especially for groups arranged in advance. Tours take you out into the vines to learn about how the grapes are farmed, and into the winery to walk through the production process. Occasionally, ad hoc tours are announced on the spot and open to anyone present – no charge, no reservation needed.

Accessibility, Amenities & Policies

Is the winery wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Reserved accessible parking is available in front, all facilities are on one level and fully navigable by wheelchair, and there is an accessible family restroom on-site.
Do you have EV charging stations?
Yes – free of charge. DuCard has both a universal charging station and a Tesla station available to guests.
Do you offer Wi-Fi or cell service?
Cell service and internet access are limited at DuCard – consider it part of the experience. Mountain views, the sounds of Popham Run, and live music have a way of making that feel like a feature, not a bug. A landline is available to the public if needed.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept most major forms of payment.
What happens if it rains during my visit?
No worries – come on inside. DuCard has a large indoor seating capacity, so a little weather won’t dampen your visit.
Do you have a privacy policy and terms & conditions?

Yes. You can review our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service on our website.