Virginia Wine Hounds

Posted by The Editorial Desk / Thursday, September 24th, 2009

We are exactly one week away from kicking off Virginia Wine Month, and if you are planning on loading up the car for a leisurely tour of Virginia’s viniferous offerings, don’t forget the fur-kid.

Many of the area’s wineries are pet-friendly and allow pets as long as they are leashed and well mannered (this is wine country after all, where civility reigns supreme). Breaux Vineyards in Purcellville is one estate where Fido can enjoy a good snort of the outdoors while you put your sniffer to work analyzing the scents of a floral glass of Virginia’s renowned Viognier.

“We love animals. Just about every single day we have at least one dog in here to visit.  It [being pet-friendly] just sort of fits into the mission and view we have,” says Breaux Vineyard’s Lawrence Camp.

The winery also hosts events throughout the year such as fundraisers to benefit local rescue organizations, and “yappy hour” every Friday until the end of September (one more remains and it’s tomorrow if you’re inclined to head out for a last hoorah).

Before we get accused of being dog-centric at Gut Check, however, Lawrence says they see all kinds of pets (including cats) pass through the doors of the winery. During the vineyard’s Key West Fest visitors even take their parrots out for a stroll.

“We’re very pet-friendly in general.  People don’t seem to shy away from bringing whatever members of their extended family out here.”

–Amy Loeffler

Tags: Amy Loeffler, Breaux Vineyards, dogs, Gut Check, Northern Virginia Magazine, wine