40th Anniversary Digital Toolkit

DC's Wine COuntry TURNS 40

In 1980, engineer and entrepreneur Lew Parker of what is now Willowcroft Farm Vineyards planted Loudoun’s first grapes on rocky ground on his farm south of Leesburg. That first crop failed so he tried again in 1981. Those grapes - Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Chardonnay and Seyval – took. In 1984 Parker bottled his first wine - a Riesling - under the Willowcroft Farm Vineyards label and began the transformation of Loudoun into DC’s Wine Country®.

This year marks the 40th Anniversary of the Loudoun wine industry. Today, the county known as DC’s Wine Country® is home to more than 50 wineries and vineyards and was described by Decanter Magazine in 2021 as “the most exciting corner of Virginia and among the most intriguing in US wine.”

Key Points

Historical Significance: The 40th anniversary of Loudoun wine marks a significant milestone in the region's viticultural history, highlighting four decades of growth, innovation and excellence in winemaking. It signifies the resilience of Loudoun's wine industry and its establishment as a prominent player in the global wine market.
Community Celebration: This anniversary is not just about wine; it's about celebrating the community behind it. It recognizes the hard work of local vineyard owners, winemakers and enthusiasts who have contributed to the region's success. The anniversary serves as an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to come together, toast to shared achievements and strengthen the bonds within the Loudoun wine community.
Reflecting on Progress: As Loudoun wine commemorates its 40th year, it's a moment to reflect on the journey thus far and to envision the future. This milestone prompts discussions about sustainability, innovation and the preservation of the region's terroir for generations to come. It invites stakeholders to contemplate how far Loudoun wine has come and how it can continue to evolve in response to changing consumer preferences and environmental challenges.

How to Promote the Anniversary

Collaborative Packages: We encourage bed & breakfasts and other non-winery partners to collaborate with local wineries to create special anniversary packages for guests. This could include discounted stays combined with wine tastings, vineyard tours or even a bottle of wine upon arrival. By partnering with wineries, bed & breakfasts can offer guests a unique and immersive experience that celebrates Loudoun's wine culture while also showcasing the hospitality of the region.
Themed Events and Activities: We encourage bed & breakfasts and other non-winery partners to host themed events or activities that tie into the anniversary celebration. For example, they could organize wine and cheese pairings, cooking classes featuring recipes that incorporate local wines or guided hikes through vineyard landscapes. By offering these experiences, bed & breakfasts and other non-winery partners can cater to wine-loving guests and contribute to the overall festive atmosphere surrounding the anniversary.
Promotion of Local Attractions: Bed & breakfasts and other non-winery partners can join in on the celebration by promoting other local attractions and businesses that are part of Loudoun's wine tourism ecosystem. This could include recommending nearby restaurants that offer wine pairings, suggesting scenic drives through wine country or highlighting artisanal shops that sell wine-related products. By acting as ambassadors for the region's wine culture, bed & breakfasts and other non-winery partners can help guests fully immerse themselves in the anniversary celebration and explore everything that Loudoun has to offer beyond the vineyard.

Social Media Caption Examples

🍇🎉 Celebrating 4 decades of exquisite taste and tradition! Join us as we raise a glass to Loudoun wine's 40th anniversary. Here's to countless memories made over sips of pure perfection. #DCsWineCountry #LoveLoudoun
From vine to glass, 40 years of passion, dedication and flavor! Join the celebration as we mark a milestone in Loudoun's rich winemaking history. Let's toast to the journey and the countless stories yet to be uncorked. 🍷✨ #DCsWineCountry #LoveLoudoun
40 years of swirling, sipping and savoring the finest flavors Loudoun has to offer! Join us as we commemorate the legacy of our region's wine culture. Here's to the past, present and future of Loudoun wine—may it continue to delight palates for decades to come! 🥂🌟 #DCsWineCountry #LoveLoudoun