Here’s the thing about wine.
“It’s something meant to be enjoyed,” says Michael Kimball, experienced wine marketer and member of the Virginia Wineries Association Board of Directors. “At its heart, wine is about connection—grown by farmers, crafted by winemakers, and shared by people from all walks of life.”
But let’s face it: wine can sometimes feel a little…intimidating.
Virginia Wine Camp is here to change that. Designed to welcome wine lovers of all levels, it’s a series of events that pairs exceptional wines and winemakers with an approachable, fun atmosphere—think flip-flops instead of dress shoes, conversations instead of lectures, and campfire vibes over formal fine dining settings.
Virginia Wine Camp was imagined by Kimball, was powered by a marketing leverage grant from the Virginia Tourism Corporation and will be hosted at Camp Cardinal RV Resort in Gloucester Point, Virginia. It officially launches in summer 2025.
“This is a way to experience wine differently,” Kimball says. “It’s about celebrating Virginia, now the sixth-largest wine grape producer in the U.S., with around 300 wineries. When you combine wine with the relaxed setting of a campground, the experience becomes very personal, approachable and fun.”
For Ryan Cox, who owns Camp Cardinal with Gloucester residents Rudy and Stephanie Heinatz, the location adds an extra layer of meaning.
“We may not be in the heart of Virginia wine country like Charlottesville,” Cox says, “but we are in an historic area for wine. The first grapes in Virginia were planted just down the road in Williamsburg in the early 17th century. That makes this region a key part of Virginia’s wine story.”
The result? A curated wine experience unlike any other, blending the history, hospitality and high-quality craftsmanship that define Virginia wine.
Set along the scenic Severn River at Camp Cardinal, Virginia Wine Camp will feature three immersive winemaker weekends throughout summer 2025.
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HERE'S WHAT GUESTS CAN LOOK FORWARD TO AT ALL THREE VIRGINIA WINE CAMP EVENTS:
Friday Night Winemaker Mingles
Kick off the event by meeting the featured winemaker of the weekend. Each winemaker will host their own tasting, allowing guests to sip, sample and chat one-on-one about their craft. Guests can purchase bottles to enjoy back at their campsite along the water, or at home.
“What’s special about this is the personal connection,” Kimball says. “It’s a great chance to hear their stories, learn about their process and discover new wines and styles in a comfortable, informal setting.”
Saturday Wine-Paired Luncheon
On day two, enjoy a wine-paired luncheon featuring dishes prepared by local culinary talent, paired perfectly with wines selected by the winemaker.
Winemakers On-Site
Throughout the weekend, the featured winemaker will stay at Camp Cardinal, giving guests plenty of opportunities to ask questions, share stories and deepen their appreciation for Virginia wine.
And this isn’t just about showcasing wine from one region.
“We’re bringing winemakers from across the state—southern Virginia, central Virginia, the Peninsula and beyond—to give a holistic view of Virginia’s wine scene,” Kimball says.
One of the weekend highlights will even feature mead, often referred to as honey wine, presented by Glenn Lavender of Silver Hand Meadery. Describing it as “the creativity of craft beer meets the elegance of wine,” Lavender’s take on mead adds a unique element to the camp experience.
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“Virginia has established itself as a premier wine destination,” Kimball says. “We produce world-class wines in a warm, welcoming atmosphere steeped in Southern hospitality. Hosting an event at a campground is the perfect way to embrace that spirit.”
So, whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a wine-curious camper, Virginia Wine Camp invites you to sip, savor and discover something new.
“This is your chance to try wines that perhaps you’ve never had, meet the makers behind them and experience wine in a way that’s comfortable, approachable and fun,” Kimball says. “Come as you are, enjoy the journey and leave with a new favorite wine.”
2025 Virginia Wine Camp Events
June 20-21, 2025: Rosemont of Virginia
July 11-12, 2025: Gauthier Vineyard
September 19-20, 2025: Silver Hand Meadery
Book your lodging or buy tickets to the events at campcardinalrvresort.com.
