5 Best Wine-Country Towns In West Virginia

Although West Virginia is not yet known as a "true" wine destination, across the state, a handful of vineyards have taken root in reclaimed farmland and its abundant, lush river valleys, producing batches shaped by highly varied elevation, climate, and soil types.

From the capital’s urban tasting rooms to the Appalachian Mountain vineyards of the south, these towns reveal a growing regional wine culture built on resiliency, craftsmanship, and tight-knit community. Each wine country town below showcases a different aspect of West Virginia’s evolving identity as an emerging wine-producing state, from folk-inspired drinks crafted with local ingredients to more classic, grape-based vintages.

Charleston

Charleston, the capital of West Virginia, has evolved into an unexpected hub for wine enthusiasts in the Appalachian region. Its proximity to the Kanawha River and its hilly landscapes provide favorable growing conditions for a variety of small farms and liquor producers, many of which now define the local wine scene and make up a major part of the area's tourism options.

Wine tastings at spots like Wine Shop at Capitol Market showcase regional vintages alongside a huge selection of bottles from abroad. For something a little different, Wandering Wind Meadery is located downtown, too, housing a barfront that will allow you to taste homemade mead in cocktails, on its own, and at home if you would like to grab a bottle for yourself. Charleston also hosts several annual events, such as the Wine and Jazz Music Festival, which attracts vintners and music lovers from across the East Coast.

Beyond the glass, you can explore the historic East End district or the scenic trails of Kanawha State Forest, all showing off how and why Charleston is such a walkable little city.

Crab Orchard

The census-designated place of Crab Orchard, located in Raleigh County, only an hour from Charleston, is a quiet but significant stop in southern West Virginia’s developing wine industry. The surrounding Appalachian foothills provide cool nights and mineral-rich soils, perfect for the local Daniel Vineyards. Set on a former, reclaimed golf course just outside town, it is arguably the main draw in the region for anyone looking for a good glass of wine. This family-run estate produces award-winning fruit wines and traditional varietals, with tastings held overlooking rolling farmland. You can also walk the vineyard grounds, attend seasonal grape harvest festivals, or participate in blending workshops that highlight West Virginia’s more artisanal approach to sustainable winemaking.

The area’s agricultural history still heavily shapes its identity, from fruit farms to pumpkin patches, and the newer vineyard now stands as a good example of land restoration and reuse, making Crab Orchard a perfect destination for a weekend getaway from the city.

Summersville

Summersville, which sits smack dab in the center of the state, is a naturally beautiful destination with a budding wine industry. The surrounding Gauley River valley and high-elevation terrain create a temperate environment ideal for vineyards such as Kirkwood Winery, located just south of town.

It produces both traditional grape wines and distinctive Appalachian specialties such as ramp (an alcoholic beverage made from wild onions) and dandelion wine, blending longstanding local delicacies with modern varieties of wine on its shelves. Here you will be able to tour the production facilities, sample limited releases, and attend grape stomping events held on-site, along with the Wine and Music Fest held each September.

Besides its vineyards, Summersville draws travelers to Summersville Lake (West Virginia's largest lake), well known for its clear waters, towering cliffs, and boating access, as well as the nearby Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park.

Weston

Weston is flanked by idyllic, rolling farmland, boasting moderately sized hills that support small vineyards and fruit growers alike. Lambert’s Vintage Wines, located just outside town, serves as a cornerstone of local winemaking here, with this family-run winery producing a range of dry and sweet products made primarily from regional grapes and berries. Its ornate, stone-built tasting room has become a fixture for travelers along Interstate 79, too, so whether you love wine or simply appreciate interesting architecture, definitely drop by for a visit.

In town, Weston’s historic district adds further appeal to the area as a travel destination, anchored by a collection of 19th-century buildings and landmarks like the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, which now hosts tours and seasonal events. A variety of other draws, like the Mountaineer Military Museum, or delicious mom and pop eateries such as Thyme Bistro, South Texas Barbecue Company, and many others, will also easily fill out time during your stay.

Wheeling

Wheeling along the Ohio River in the state’s Northern Panhandle. Its proximity to the Ohio Valley wine region makes it so that local tasting rooms have easy access to a wide range of options from nearby vineyards.

A short drive east of town will land you at Moss Farms Winery, whereas just west of downtown in neighboring Ohio, lies Vino di Piccin Winery and Tasting House. Moreover, Good Mansion Wines in downtown Wheeling is a leading destination to buy a bottle or two for yourself, known for its extensive collection of domestic and European selections, regular tasting events, and pairing sessions that highlight Appalachian cuisine.

Wheeling also offers an assortment of historic attractions, such as Centre Market, Oglebay Institute’s art galleries, and the Wheeling Suspension Bridge, the latter of which dates back to the mid-1800s and was once considered the largest suspension bridge in the world for a brief period. This mix of architectural heritage, culinary tradition, and easy access to regional wineries (only about an hour's drive from Pittsburgh, too) positions Wheeling as a refined yet approachable gateway to West Virginia’s northern wine country.

Check Out West Virginia's Budding Wine Industry Today

These West Virginian towns, for the most part, stick to their traditions while embracing the delights of modern winemaking. Whether exploring riverside tasting rooms, family-run vineyards, or historic main streets, here, you will encounter a culture rooted in both innovation and place, with alcoholic beverages consisting of both local ingredients and the fruits of the state's relatively new vineyards around every corner.