Veramar Vineyard
Founded in 2000, Veramar was one of the first wineries in the northern Shenandoah Valley. Located in Berryville, just west of the Blue Ridge and the Shenandoah River near Route 7, this is one of the three properties of the Bogaty family – along with James Charles and Bogati wineries. There are 28 acres of vineyards. Justin Bogaty is the winemaker.
Wine. Tier II. The 2021 vintage Veramar Cabernet Franc was awarded a silver medal at the 2023 San Francisco International Wine Competition. Veramar grows nine different grapes, from which it makes wine for itself and the other Bogati wineries. The Chardonnay received a silver medal at the 2018 Virginia Governor’s Cup state-wide tasting competition, and the Seyval Blanc a bronze at the 2017 competition. Wines get mixed reviews online.
Setting. One star. Comfortable Adirondack chairs on the lawn and patio tables from which you have views over the fields, vines and Shenandoah hills. Charcuterie, bread, cheese and chocolates available. The winery hosts many events.
Stories. The Virginia Arboretum. Virginia’s wide-open spaces and vistas are one of the state’s great attractions. But sometimes it’s nice to take in some of the nature in an organized, educational-oriented way. For this, the Virginia Arboretum fits the bill. Located in the town of Boyce, off of US Highway 50 just West of the crest of the Shenandoah, the Arboretum covers 172 acres in a quiet, secluded venue for exploring Virginia’s native trees and plants. The grounds include many signposted trails, educational panels, an herb garden and – for those who love the smell of Boxwood — no fewer than 162 different types of Boxwoods.