Encircled by 320 acres of woodland, field, and vineyards, Williamsburg Winery is just three miles from Colonial Williamsburg, yet it’s a world apart.

It’s actually part of an idyllic European-style village complete with two restaurants, a wine bar, spa, library, walking trails, and an enchanting inn, the 28-room Wedmore Place. Arriving guests feel they’ve been transported to a quaint European village, and they readily feel at home.

Williamsburg Winery was established in 1985 by Patrick and Peggy Duffeler, and has grown to be Virginia’s largest winery, with an annual production of nearly 60,000 cases. From the very first vintage in 1988, its wines have been enthusiastically received, and today they routinely receive international recognition.

At the 2010 London International Wine Fair’s Decanter World Wine Awards alone, five Williamsburg wines captured medals and accolades. This has been the goal of Winemaker Matthew Meyer since he came to Williamsburg from the Napa Valley. Guests are eager to find out what all the fuss is about with a visit to the Old World-style tasting room.

After tasting and discovering that the wines live up to their global reputation, they can tour the winery, visit the barrel cellar, and learn more about winemaking. When appetites stir, there’s a choice of two compelling restaurants: Gabriel Archer Tavern, nestled among the vineyards; or Café Provençal, located within the sublime Wedmore Place hotel.

Those who stay overnight in one of the hotel’s individually designed rooms or suites abandon all thoughts of the real world, and settle into a luxurious retreat complete with in-room fireplaces, antiques, European bedding, and fine linens. Public areas include a cozy, classic 19th century British-style library, and an outdoor swimming pool where food and Williamsburg’s distinctive wines are served.

It’s hard to believe that this destination is so close to day-to-day life — yet so wonderfully far. For savvy wine tourers, Williamsburg Winery provides a European home-away-from-home right in the heart of Virginia.

WHAT TO BUY: