If music is the food of love, then wine be the drink. In ancient Rome drinking wine was thought to bring couples closer together and the gift of a bottle was a symbol of affection. In the Middle Ages wine became associated with the feast of Saint Valentine, the patron saint of love. It was believed that drinking wine during the feast brought luck and happiness in love, all of which suggests that Loudoun, DC’s Wine Country®, is the perfect place to woo your loved one this February 14. But Loudoun is about more than wine. Check out our guide to the destination's world-class craft beverage scene including beer, cider, whiskey, cocktails and even coffee.
This Valentine’s Day (and week) why not get romantic over a glass or cup of all kinds of craft drinks in Loudoun.
Wine
Boxwood Estate Winery in Middleburg is hosting Cupid’s Cave over six days: a four-course pairing in their atmospheric cellar – a cool circular cave-like room lined with French oak wine barrels. Featured dishes include Crab Rangoon, Cucumber with Boursin and Dill and Shrimp Cocktail. Each guest also takes home a Chocolate Truffle Gift Box. For those with a sweet tooth, Kalero Vineyard in Purcellville hosts the 3rd annual Chocolate and Wine Pairing, the chocolates from The Conche Chocolate & Cake Studio. Scenic Bluemont Vineyard has a Valentine’s Day “Chef’s Table Dinner” at the rustic-chic Stable venue on Februrary 14 and February 15, the three-course celebration features farm-fresh produce from sister property Great Country Farms and you can spoil your palate with estate wines by the glass or bottle, mimosas or red sangria. Or, why not ditch the roses for the rosé and get your girlfriends together for a sumptuous Galentine’s Day Brunch.
Beer
Solace Brewing Co. hosts a Galentine's celebration with the ladies. Enjoy drink specials, themed trivia and shopping pop-up boutiques, including locally grown, “Love Tulips” courtesy of The Fertile Blurb Flower Farm & Design Studio. Lark Brewing Co. in Aldie brings an intimate and unforgettable Valentine's Day Wine Dinner experience. Indulge in a thoughtfully curated multi-course menu, each dish expertly paired with premium wines. Menu includes delicacies such as fresh sea oysters, caviar, slow roasted beef tenderloin and more.
Cider
Henway Hard Cider Co. in Bluemont wants your dog to feel the love. On February 15 there will be a Valentine’s Day “Pawty” in the Tasting Room, your pup your plus one. A collection of pup-focused vendors and brands are on hand to sell doggie treats and accessories and the $15 ticket comes with a glass of cider for you and a swag bag for your four-legged Valentine. Bird Bites Kitchen will provide food for humans and “bark-cuterie” boards for the hounds. Celebrate blossoming love at Mt. Defiance in Middleurg, bring your loved one on Valentine's Day from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. for a $10 macroon and cider pairing. Purchase a custom floral bouquet provided by Peace, Love & Flowers LLC; pre-order your bouquet here.
Cocktails & Mocktails
For an evening of romantic moody glamour, head over to speakeasy-style Tarbenders Lounge in Leesburg for Valentine's Day Dinner for Two. Alongside craft cocktails and champagne, dine on poached lobster tail all while being serenaded by the smooth sounds of Piano Man Spencer Bates. Magic. If you’re looking for a nightcap afterward, head over to The Docket or Night Shift in the SideBar setup for a craft cocktail (or a mocktail if you’re driving). The Docket provides a "Dealers Choice" experience to cater to your taste palate.
Coffee
Desserts are a necessity this holiday, but did you know they can also come in craft drink form? Make your way to Goosecup Coffee and Bar in Leesburg, the trendy café, bar and small batch roastery, for an inventive coffee drink. What to try? The Maple Cardamom Latte is a double shot of espresso, house-made maple syrup, and cardamom – a spice consisting of whole or ground dried fruits and of the ginger plant family. There is also the Orange Sunshine: a double shot of espresso with a shot of homemade candied orange syrup, steamed half and half and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a taste of sweet spice. Not only will your date be wowed, but the caffeine and sugar rush will keep the day going a little longer.
