Architecture & Wine

Day 1: Savor Winemaking Traditions in Modern Tasting Rooms

Are you looking for a winery experience that’s pleasing to the eye as well as the palate? Check out these Loudoun wineries where the architecture is part of the experience.

Start your day with a visit to Boxwood Estate Winery. Built by renowned architect Hugh Newell Jacobsen, Boxwood has been described as an “architectural marvel” by Entra Architectural Magazine. Boxwood blends old world winemaking traditions with state-of-the-art techniques to create premium red wines in the Bordeaux style. The meticulously maintained vineyards and land on the 165-acre estate serve as the backdrop to the modern tasting room. 

Enjoy a picturesque drive along rural roads as you head to The Barns at Hamilton Station. This family owned and operated winery is housed on a refurbished dairy farm. Eleven breathtaking acres surround a beautifully restored hundred and six-year-old stone and wood bank barn, which has been transformed into a unique tasting room.

In Italian, nota means “music note” and viva means “with life”, aptly describing Notaviva Vineyards’ experience of pairing wine and music. Notaviva’s 4,500-square-foot state-of-the-art timber frame building was designed to be a tasting room, a venue for live music performances, a residence for the owners, and is regularly featured on DIY Television’s Dream House where it can be seen being built from the ground up. 

Time your trip to catch the sunset at your next stop, Sunset Hills Vineyard. Housed in an 8,000 square- foot Amish-restored barn, Sunset Hills’ tasting room is warm and elegant, featuring a stunning 35’ beamed ceiling and massive mahogany tasting bar. Two large decks provide panoramic views overlooking vineyards and sunset views.