Floyd Wineries Shine at the 2026 Virginia Governor’s Cup

Floyd County’s growing wine scene is earning statewide recognition. At the 2026 Virginia Governor’s Cup, two Floyd wineries, Chateau Morrisette Winery and Villa Appalachia Winery, brought home multiple awards, highlighting the quality and craftsmanship coming out of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Virginia Governor’s Cup is one of the most stringent wine competitions in the United States. Hosted by the Virginia Wineries Association in partnership with the Virginia Wine Board and the Virginia Vineyards Association, the competition evaluates the best wines, ciders, and meads produced across the Commonwealth.

In 2026, world-class judges sampled more than 670 entries from Virginia producers. Wines were evaluated using the 100-point scale widely used by publications like Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast. Judges considered tasting notes, appearance, aroma, flavor, overall quality, and commercial suitability when scoring each entry.

Based on the final scores, wines are awarded medals:

  • Gold (Outstanding/Classic): 90–100 points
  • Silver (Very Good): 85–89 points
  • Bronze (Good): 80–84 points

Award-Winning Wines from Floyd

Floyd County wineries performed exceptionally well in the 2026 competition.

A building with a large, sloped roof and a sign that says "Chateau Morrisette Winery," surrounded by green bushes and trees.

Chateau Morrisette Winery received several honors:

  • Gold Medal: 2024 Vidal Blanc
  • Silver Medal: 2022 Archival XIII
  • Bronze Medals: 2023 Chambourcin and 2023 Fire Dog

Meanwhile, Villa Appalachia Winery earned two Silver Medals:

  • 2024 Toscanello
  • 2023 Sangiovese
A stone and wood building with a red metal roof, surrounded by green grass. Several people are sitting around tables under umbrellas, while two individuals relax in lounge chairs in the foreground.

Experience Floyd’s Wine Country

There’s no better way to celebrate these achievements than by visiting Floyd, VA and experiencing the local wineries for yourself. Visitors can enjoy tastings, mountain views, and warm hospitality at local favorites including Chateau Morrisette Winery, Villa Appalachia Winery, and Dobbins Hollow Winery and Cidery.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking for a relaxing afternoon in the mountains, Floyd’s wineries offer a memorable taste of Virginia’s wine scene. Plan a visit, raise a glass, and discover all that awaits you in Floyd, VA.