Travel to Chateau O'Brien at Northpoint in VA
A Northern Virginia Winery off of Interstate 66
Jul 27, 2009
Located close to Exit 18 on Interstate 66, Chateau O’Brien at Northpoint is an easy winery and vineyard to visit. The location of the winery on a rise with surrounding vineyards provides delightful views of the scenic countryside and I-66.
Howard O’Brien, the winery and vineyard proprietor, purchased the property in 2002. The French-style farmhouse was deteriorated and suggestions were made that the building should be dismantled and a new tasting room built. O’Brien was determined to save part of the farmhouse and chose to renovate the structure. Today the building is eye-catching and a testament to what determination can accomplish.
Chateau O’Brien’s Winery Tasting Room
Visitors will notice detailed copper incorporated into the design of the tasting room and building. The entry doorway is of copper. Once inside and looking up, one will see a large copper section in the ceiling. With two tasting rooms available the focus in one room is the Classic Collection while the other tasting room has the Cellar Collection. Enjoy the architecture and design of the facility. O’Brien believes that the winery is “homey, comfortable, farm-like and has the personality of the owner.”
Vineyards and Wines at Chateau O'Brien in Virginia
Chateau O’Brien uses only grapes from the onsite vineyard and two other Virginia vineyards owned by O’Brien. Grapes grown include Viognier, Chardonnay, Tannat, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Grigio, Tramminette, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Petit Mensing and Syrah.
Chateau O’Brien produces several wines that include an apple wine. This is a dessert wine produced from Markham Apple Orchards. Buddy’s Bistro Red is named after the family pet. More wines include the 2005 Virginia Limited Reserve Tannat, Northpoint Red (a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Tannat), Virginia Chardonnay, Northpoint Rose and Northpoint White.
Winery Dog Mascot: Donations to Animal Shelters
Buddy, man’s best friend, is the mascot for Chateau O’Brien. Buddy is the beloved mascot for Chateau O'Brien. A red wine, Buddy’s Bistro Red, is sold with one dollar donated to animal shelters. When visiting, visitors are likely to see Buddy going for a walk in the vineyards.
Enjoy Northern Virginia Weather Year Round on an All-Weather Patio
A large all-weather patio is attached to the tasting room. O’Brien had granite tables and chairs added to the patio. In Northern Virginia there can be occasions during the colder months when a spring-like day arrives and people want to enjoy a day in the sun. O’Brien wants guests to be able to enjoy a beautiful day outdoors any time of the year.
An Interstate 66 Winery Offers Public and Private Wine Events
Most months, a large event is happening at the winery. Most are all about food and wine. Some of the past events included the Annual Summer Crab Boil, Murder Mystery Nights and Chili at the Chateau. Special Private Cellar Tastings also take place. Anyone planning a special event should contact the winery. An in-house chef is available upon advance request.
Enjoy a visit to Chateau O’Brien at Northpoint, just one of several wineries near Interstate 66 in Virginia.
Address: Chateau O’Brien at Northpoint, 3238 Rail Stop Road, Markham, VA 22643
For more information about Chateau O'Brien, visit the Wine Trail Traveler website.
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