Wine Tasting and Trail Rides

Milk and cookies, Batman and Robin, salt and pepper. There are a lot of things that just go better in pairs, and we have a new combination to add to the list—wine and horses. Yes, you read that correctly. There are two local groups that offer trail rides through the stunning farms and vineyards of Nelson County and Albemarle County, Virginia, complete with award-winning horses and samplings of some of the best wine that Virginia has to offer.

Rebel’s Run in Afton offers a 2½ hour Vineyard Ride that ends with a wine tasting at Afton Mountain Vineyard: “Meander through the beautiful Virginia countryside! You will not only see local wildlife, but stop off at the local winery to sample some of the finest wines in the country.” If you’re an inexperienced rider, have no fear. Rebel’s Run’s horses (Pocahontas, Mariposa, Cisco, Cheyenne, and of course, Rebel) are gentle and well-trained, guaranteeing that you will thoroughly enjoy your saddleback winery tour.

Indian Summer Guide Service in Keswick offers hour-long Vineyard Rides that will take you through four locally renowned wineries—King Family Vineyards, Glass House Winery, Pollak Vineyards, and Veritas Vineyard & Winery. “Each of our private horseback rides is led by one of our knowledgeable guides, who will ensure your safety as well as your enjoyment. After the ride you can make your way to the winery to enjoy a wine tasting and stock up on your favorites” (Indian Summer Guide Services). As with Rebel’s Run, no prior riding experience is necessary.

Afton Mountain Bed & Breakfast is a quick 6-minute drive from Rebel’s Run and around 30 minutes away from Indian Summer Guide Service, so book your room and get ready to saddle up and sip your wine.

Photo by David. (This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license.)