Along for the ride: Wine and Beer Tasting, VA

It's a Sunday, or as Jonathan calls it "Funday," so we're looking for some fun by going wine and beer tasting. The first winery we stop at is Oak Barrel Winery in the Virginia countryside.

Parking for Oak Barrel Winery

Front entrance

It's a pretty "down home" winery with most of the patrons dressed in jeans and comfortable clothes.

Since I'm not much of a drinker anymore, I wander out to the back patio while the others sample their wines. Nomini Bay Oysters has set up a grill and are offering their oysters for sale. Now you're talking - they are absolutely delicious! Since there aren't many people on the patio, I start a conversation with the oyster people. They say the effects of climate change and increased storms have wrecked havoc on their oyster beds and they aren't sure if their family's generations old business will survive. When the others join me, we all buy more of their delicious oysters. I sincerely hope they will be able to continue providing them.

View from patio at Oak Barrel

The next winery we visit is Blue Valley Vineyard and Winery. It is more upscale and pricier than Oak Barrel. The large stone building and surrounding landscaping are beautiful. It's easy to see why this winery is popular location for weddings and other celebrations.

Walking up from the parking lot to main entrance

Jono & Tracy at main entrance

Stone walls with landscaping

The tasting room is large and spacious with plenty of seating areas.

No blue jeans here

No cheap wines either

Great fireplace and large windows to take in the views

Views of the surrounding Virginia countryside

After two wineries, we're ready to try a brewery. Jonathan has picked Ocelot as he's heard good things about them, but hasn't had a chance to try them out. We order a flight of their most popular brews to get an idea of which ones we like. My personal favorites are their dark ales.