My name is Beth, and I'm a Virginia native who delights in discovering hidden gems throughout the state. I've enjoyed spending time in just about every corner of the Old Dominion, but have to admit there's something especially captivating about the Shenandoah Valley. It's scenic, sure, but it's the way the local community celebrates the land that's truly remarkable. Nowhere is that truer than the small region of Delaplane, Virginia. Below you'll find my first-hand experience of visiting the crown jewel of Virginia's wine country: RdV Vineyards.

If you're someone who appreciates fine wine, a trip to Napa Valley is likely at the top of your bucket list. But you'll be pleased to hear that Virginia has its own version of Wine Country and, call us biased, but we think it's just as innovative. That's especially true of a lovely local winery making big strides in the wine world: Rendez-Vous Vineyards. According to their website, "RdV wines express the essence of an extraordinary place." Having heard that RdV Vineyards was a truly special destination, we visited and found this to be distinctively true. Here's a little more on what we found so special about RdV Vineyards in Delaplane, Virginia, and why we can't wait to return soon.

Located 60 miles outside of Washington D.C. awaits a vineyard that feels worlds away from it all. RdV Vineyards is truly a destination winery.

Nestled on a gorgeous 16-acre vineyard in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this property looks like something out of a painting.

The setting of RdV Vineyards isn't just beautiful; it's integral to the wine-making process. The combination of rocky soil and southern-exposed slopes creates the perfect environment for grape-growing.

After having heard a glowing recommendation for this Virginia winery, we set out to try it ourselves. And we couldn't believe what awaited us inside!

It's important to note that unlike many of Virginia's wineries, RdV Vineyards requires a reservation beforehand. You can't simply drop by, but the benefit of this is your planned visit will feel like a special occasion.

Entering the beautiful, light-filled tasting room, it was hard not to be wowed by its grandeur.

Despite running a few minutes behind, the hostess was gracious to catch us up to speed on the tour. Moreover, we were greeted with a flute of Veuve Clicquot which added a note of festivity to the occasion.

Touring the facility and hearing how the winery began was a definite highlight of the experience.

The winery was established by Rutger de Vink, a firm believer that Virginia can produce wine as impressive as anywhere else in the world.

One thing becomes abundantly clear during our tour: RdV Vineyards is serious about the art — and science — of winemaking.

And these wines did not disappoint. The limited selection of red wines available to sample were complex and dense without being over-powerful, proving that Virginia soil really is something special. The tasting also included a delightful charcuterie board spread, which paired perfectly with each pour. Enjoying such a delicious spread of local Virginia produce, it really did feel like we were in wine country.

RdV Vineyards is something of a hidden gem, and yet many of these bottles are known the world over by dedicated oenophiles.

Lost Mountain is perhaps the most celebrated and well-known bottle. It's expensive, with vintages averaging over $150 a bottle, yet prominent wine critics have raved about it. One noteworthy review by Robert Parker Jr., a famous reviewer, described it as "A remarkable cabernet blend – complex, velvety and world-class. A revelation." No wonder there's a reserve list! We didn't join, but we were certainly tempted.

Of course, that's the beauty of visiting RdV in person. You can experience some of Virginia's best wine in the setting where it was grown.

We left RdV feeling even more connected to Virginia's wine country. RdV Vineyards may be unique in its winemaking approach, but it's also embedded in the community.

After our tasting, our guide recommended another fantastic local spot in the area: Field & Main Restaurant. We were happy to enjoy a few veggie burgers from this delightful restaurant as we discussed just how special this region of the state is. It was a day trip that we can't wait to experience again!

If you're someone charmed by the Virginia countryside and enthusiastic about quality wine, a trip to RdV Vineyards is a must. Just be sure to make your reservations ahead of time; as we mentioned before, they are required for a tasting and tour. To learn more, be sure to visit RdV Vineyards online. You can also contact the winery and schedule your visit by calling (540) 364-0221.

To discover more incredible boots-on-the-ground adventures across America from our team of local travel experts, check out all of the articles in OnlyInYourState’s Everyday Explorers series. What destinations would you like to see featured next? Tell us where we should go on our nominations page.