Whether you’re just getting into wine or already know your way around a tasting room, Virginia’s wine community is full of passionate, knowledgeable people worth following. From writers and winemakers to influencers and educators, these voices offer insider tips, winery recommendations, and plenty of inspiration to help you explore everything the region has to offer. If you’re curious about Virginia wine—or just looking for new bottles to try—these are the folks who make learning fun and the journey even better.
My Nova Wine Blog
Dan’s interest in Virginia wine began in 2007, though his early experiences were less than impressive. Over the past decade, he’s seen the industry evolve, with better quality wines, more collaboration, and a stronger focus on expressing Virginia’s unique terroir. Since 2017, he’s made it a goal to visit new wineries, expanding his horizons beyond a few familiar favorites. After retiring and relocating to Central Virginia in 2021, his wine adventures have only grown, leading him to discover new favorites and even join a few wine clubs. If you’re interested in discovering hidden gems and following Virginia’s wine scene through an honest, personal lens, Dan’s blog, My Nova Wine Blog, is well worth keeping up with. You can also keep up with him on Instagram by following him here!
@boomboomvino on Instagram
The Instagram account @boomboomvino, run by Kenny Bumbaco, is dedicated to exploring and celebrating wine, with a strong focus on Virginia and European varietals. As a Certified Specialist of Wine and wine competition judge based in Williamsburg, VA, Kenny shares his deep knowledge through educational content, tasting notes, and wine-focused experiences. His page blends wine expertise with a personal, down-to-earth approach, making the world of wine feel approachable and engaging. In addition to wine, he often shares insights into food pairings and cooking, creating a well-rounded culinary perspective. @boomboomvino is a great follow for anyone interested in learning more about wine, especially from a Virginia-focused lens, through the eyes of a passionate and experienced wine lover.
@drinkwhatyoulike on Instagram and Drink What You Like Blog
Frank Morgan’s Instagram, @drinkwhatyoulike, offers an honest and insightful look at Virginia wine from someone with real expertise. As a wine writer for The Virginian-Pilot and the Organizer & Head Judge of the Virginia Governor’s Cup Wine Competition, Frank brings a deep understanding of Virginia Wine in the context of the world of wine. His posts include tasting notes and visits to wineries across Virginia, providing a well-rounded view of what’s happening locally. He also runs the blog Drink What You Like, where he thoughtfully documents his wine experiences. For anyone interested in reliable and knowledgeable insights on Virginia wines, this is a great account to follow.
@winetrailsandwanderlust on Instagram and Wine Trails and Wanderlust Blog
Run by wine columnist Matt Fitzsimmons, Wine Trails and Wanderlust offers a fantastic look at Virginia’s wine scene through both Instagram and a blog. On Instagram, Matt shares beautiful photos from visits to over 200 wineries, along with tips and insights about Virginia wines and events—perfect for locals and visitors alike. The blog dives deeper with detailed winery reviews, tasting comparisons, and a handy winery directory covering all of Virginia. Matt also mixes in travel stories and local highlights, making it a great resource if you want to explore the state’s wine regions and discover what makes Virginia wines unique. Whether you’re planning a trip or just love learning about wine, this is a fun and helpful place to follow.
Reggie Leonard
Reggie Leonard is a passionate voice in Virginia wine and is known for championing diversity, connection, and creativity in the industry. Based in Charlottesville, he’s the co-founder of Oenoverse, a movement focused on expanding access and opportunity within Virginia wine. Reggie also collaborates on The Parallax Project, a wine label he produces alongside Lance Lemon, and regularly contributes to wine education through the Wine Guild of Charlottesville and guest curation at local shops. He was named one of VinePair’s Top 50 in 2023 for his work as a wine connector and advocate—earning him the nickname “Virginia Wine Hype Man.”
Whether he’s curating a tasting, co-creating a wine, or building community through storytelling, Reggie is a key figure shaping the future of Virginia wine.
You can follow his wine journey here:
Instagram: @reggieleonard and @thats.so.reg
Website: reggieleonard.com
Oenoverse: welcometotheoenoverse.com
Virginia Wine Love – Nancy Bauer
Nancy Bauer is the founder of Virginia Wine Love, a thriving community and website dedicated to celebrating and supporting Virginia wine. What began in 2020 as a Facebook group during the pandemic quickly grew into a full-fledged platform featuring winery news, events, and travel tips. Nancy has been exploring Virginia wine since 2010, when she and her husband visited 150 wineries in 150 days for their app, Virginia Wine in My Pocket. She’s also the author of the Virginia Wine Travel Journal and co-founder of Virginia Women in Wine, a nonprofit supporting women in the industry. If you want expert insights, hidden gem recommendations, and a welcoming space to learn about Virginia wine, she’s one of the best people to follow.
You can follow her work at VirginiaWineLove.com, on Instagram @vawinelove, and through the Facebook group Virginia Wine Love.
@sipsandtripswithpaige on Instagram
Paige Poprocky, the creator of @sipsandtripswithpaige, is a WSET Level 3-certified wine enthusiast who brings a fun, approachable vibe to Virginia wine. Based in Richmond, VA, she started her wine journey in 2020 and has since visited over 100 Virginia wineries, sharing honest reviews, educational tips, and beautiful snapshots along the way. With a background in teaching, Paige makes wine feel easy to understand and enjoyable to explore—whether she’s offering tasting notes, pairing ideas, or travel suggestions. She also contributes to the Monticello Wine Trail’s Instagram, further connecting people to one of Virginia’s top wine regions. If you’re looking for down-to-earth wine content with a local focus and a personal touch, @sipsandtripswithpaige is a great account to follow.
@fromthesevines on Instagram
Run by Kathy Wiedemann, @fromthesevines is a beautifully curated Instagram account that highlights the people, places, and pours that define Virginia wine. Based in Northern Virginia, Kathy shares her winery visits, tasting notes, and personal reflections with a warm, thoughtful tone that invites followers to slow down and savor the journey. Her content focuses on storytelling—spotlighting not just the wine, but the winemakers and experiences that make each visit memorable. With an eye for photography and a genuine love for the region, Kathy captures the charm and character of Virginia wine country in every post. Whether you’re planning your next winery visit or simply enjoy learning more about local wine through a personal lens, @fromthesevines is a lovely and inspiring account to follow.
