There’s something magical about dining under the stars around a campfire in coastal Virginia. What can make it even better? Having the perfect glass of Virginia wine in hand.
Whether you’re grilling up a hearty feast, indulging in artisanal cheeses, or giving s’mores a gourmet twist, pairing the right wine can elevate your campfire cuisine to an entirely new level. Here’s how to bring out the best in your outdoor meals with locally crafted Virginia wines.
Campfire Classics & Virginia Reds
Nothing says camping like a flame-grilled steak or a juicy burger fresh off the fire. Red wines from Virginia’s vineyards—such as a bright and layered Cabernet Franc, a bold and hearty Petit Verdot, or an expertly crafted blend—make excellent companions. These wines enhance the rich, charred flavors of grilled meats, offering a smooth balance of fruitiness and spice.
Pairing Pick: A classic burger made with local grass-fed beef, melted cheddar, and caramelized onions finds its perfect match in the Rosemont of Virginia 2022 Cabernet Franc. This 100% estate-grown wine offers rich aromas of black cherries, plums, tobacco, and a touch of white pepper—an ideal complement to the savory beef and the subtle sweetness of the onions.
Fresh Seafood & Crisp Whites
For those who prefer a coastal touch, the Chesapeake Bay’s bounty of seafood—like freshly-shucked shellfish or steamed blue crabs—pairs wonderfully with a bright, citrusy Virginia Albariño or Chardonnay. Crisp acidity and fruit-forward notes can bring out the natural sweetness of seafood while complementing other smoky campfire flavors.
Pairing Pick: Share a dozen raw oysters with friends and a bottle of Chatham Vineyards’ 2023 Church Creek Steel Chardonnay from Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Affectionately referred to as “Virginia’s oyster wine,” this vibrant white enchants with layers of honeysuckle, acacia, orange blossom, Meyer lemon, yellow apple, honeydew melon, and hints of crushed oyster shells, and sea salt. Its bright acidity and long, refreshing finish make it a perfect shellfish pairing.
Artisanal Cheeses & Versatile Wines
No camping trip is complete without a grazing board of cheeses and charcuterie. Virginia produces an array of artisanal cheeses that shine when paired with the right wine. A creamy Brie pairs beautifully with an off-dry Virginia Vidal Blanc, while a tangy goat cheese complements a refreshing Rosé.
Pairing Pick: You simply can’t go wrong with a spread of creamy Brie, fig jam, and crusty bread—especially when paired with a glass of Stinson Vineyards 2023 Rosé of Tannat. Grown in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Tannat is typically a bold, tannic varietal, but when pressed off its skins immediately, it transforms into a delicate, fruit-forward rosé. Its pale hue is deceiving, as each sip reveals a rich, brambly palate and vibrant acidity that perfectly balances the indulgent spread.
Gourmet S’mores & Dessert Wines
S’mores are a staple of any campfire, but why not give them an upgrade? Swap traditional chocolate for dark chocolate with sea salt or caramel-filled varieties. Pairing with a Virginia dessert wine or mead (aka honey wine)—like a Port-style Norton or sweet Melomel —enhances the rich cocoa and toasted marshmallow flavors, creating a decadent ending to your evening.
Pairing Pick: Try dark chocolate and raspberry s’mores with a glass of the I’m Yours mead from Silver Hand Meadery, one of Virginia’s most acclaimed and innovative meaderies. This luscious, sweet melomel is crafted with Appalachian wildflower honey, ripe raspberries, and rich vanilla beans, creating a flavor experience reminiscent of liquid white chocolate and raspberry. Each sip enhances the gooey, chocolatey goodness of your s’mores, making for an indulgent fireside treat you won’t forget.
Cozy Campfire Comforts & Spiced Wines
Cooler nights call for warm, hearty dishes like campfire chili or Dutch oven stews. A silky smooth Merlot or a layered red blend can complement these rustic meals, enhancing the smoky depth of slow-cooked ingredients.
Pairing Pick: Cozy up with a bowl of campfire chili and a glass of Early Mountain Vineyards 2023 Foothills. Its lively aromas of red and black fruits, subtle dried herbs, and bright summer berries set the stage for a beautifully layered sip. Medium-bodied with soft tannins and balanced acidity, Foothills enhances the rich, savory depth of the chili while its bright fruit and spice notes provide the perfect contrast to the dish’s warmth and complexity
Sip & Savor During Winemaker Weekends
Virginia’s diverse wine scene offers something for every camper’s palate. By thoughtfully pairing your meals with the right wines, you can transform a simple camping trip into a gourmet adventure.
Speaking of adventure, check out Virginia Wine Camp and our series of Winemaker Weekends—offering curated, multi-day journeys through the heart of Virginia’s wine culture right here at Camp Cardinal. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Gloucester, these events combine the joy of outdoor living with the sophistication of expertly crafted wines.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply love a good glass, our Winemaker Weekends offer a fun and educational experience with guided tastings from the winemakers themselves and plenty of time to relax by the fire pit as you sip and savor local wines.
2025 Winemaker Weekend Schedule:
- June 20-21, 2025: Rosemont of Virginia
- July 11-12, 2025: Gauthier Vineyard
- September 19-20, 2025: Silver Hand Meadery
Join us to celebrate the Commonwealth’s vibrant wine scene, discover new campfire pairings, and create memories you’ll treasure long after the final glass is poured. Learn more and book your stay at campcardinalrvresort.com.
