2025 Viognier Pre-release & Live Music
Program Details & Spotlights
Be the first to sample the highly anticipated 2025 Viognier, a gold medal winner at the 2026 Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition. This exclusive pre-release tasting event features live acoustic folk and country music from singer-songwriter Pat Anderson playing from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on the outdoor pavilion. Food lovers can pair their wine flights with fresh, hand-battered Alaska-caught fish and chips prepared on-site by the visiting 'Catchin' Fish & Chips' food truck. Enjoy scenic vineyard views and premium estate-grown Virginia wines during this special release day.
For those of us who call the Lake Anna area home, a quick trip down to Louisa County's rolling hills is one of our absolute favorite weekend escapes. Tucked away just south of the water, Fifty-Third Winery and Vineyard represents the very best of central Virginia’s thriving boutique wine scene. This weekend, they are rolling out the welcome mat for the highly anticipated pre-release of their 2025 Viognier. As Virginia's official state grape, Viognier holds a special place in our local terroir, and this particular vintage is already highly decorated, having secured a prestigious Gold Medal at the Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition.
There is truly nothing quite like relaxing on the winery's expansive, shaded outdoor pavilion with a fresh pour in hand. From 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, the afternoon air will be filled with the soulful, storytelling melodies of singer-songwriter Pat Anderson. His signature blend of acoustic folk and gritty country is the perfect soundtrack for a breezy afternoon overlooking the lush, estate-grown vines. It’s the kind of laid-back, community-centric atmosphere that defines our rural lake region, making it the ultimate spot to unwind with friends, family, and fellow wine lovers.
To elevate the tasting experience, Fifty-Third is hosting the popular Catchin' Fish & Chips food truck on-site. They’ll be serving up baskets of fresh, hand-battered, wild Alaska-caught fish and crispy hot chips prepared right before your eyes. The rich, savory crunch of the fresh-fried fish paired with the bright, aromatic, and tropical stone-fruit notes of the freshly poured 2025 Viognier is an absolute match made in culinary heaven. Whether you are a seasoned oenophile or just looking for a gorgeous, delicious Saturday escape, this release day promises to be one of the highlights of the season.
Why You Should Attend
- Exclusive First Access: Be among the very first to taste and purchase bottles of the award-winning 2025 Viognier before it officially hits the public shelves.
- Award-Winning Pedigree: Experience firsthand why this specific vintage earned a coveted Gold Medal at the Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition.
- Live Local Music: Enjoy a free, live outdoor performance by talented folk-country artist Pat Anderson on the scenic pavilion.
- Gourmet Food Pairing: Indulge in hot, fresh, wild-caught Alaskan fish and chips, perfectly curated to complement the winery's estate-grown white wines.
Insider Tips
- Arrive Early for Seating: The pavilion tables fill up quickly when live music starts at 1:00 PM. We recommend arriving right at noon to grab prime seating and order your first flight.
- BYO Lawn Chairs: If the pavilion tables are full, the sprawling grassy lawns overlooking the vineyard are perfect for setting up your own camp chairs or picnic blankets.
- Take the Scenic Route: If you are driving down from the Lake Anna spots like Bumpass or Mineral, take Route 208 to US-522 South for a gorgeous drive through Virginia's historic farmland.
- Try the Red Flights Too: While the Viognier is the star of the show, don't miss out on Fifty-Third's exceptional estate-grown reds, like their bold Petit Verdot, which pair wonderfully with the crisp autumn air.
Whether you are wrapping up a morning on the water or driving in for a day trip, Fifty-Third Winery and Vineyard offers the perfect slice of Louisa County hospitality. Gather your favorite crew, bring your appetite, and toast to the brand new vintage of Virginia's premier white wine!
⚓ Local Visitor Navigation Tips & Parking
Reservations are not required for regular tastings, but arrive early as pavilion seating fills quickly. Guests can also purchase bottles to enjoy on the lawn (bringing picnic blankets or lawn chairs is welcome). No outside alcohol is permitted.