Paradise Springs Winery in Clifton VA a Fairfax County First

Updated on February 7, 2024 by Julie McCool

Paradise Springs Winery can make two unique claims. It is the oldest winery in Fairfax County, Virginia, and it's the closest winery to Washington DC. The popular vineyard is tucked at the end of a country road in charming Clifton, Virginia.

A scenic location, welcoming spaces, and tasty wines make Paradise Springs Winery a fun gathering spot and day trip destination. Reach this quiet section of Fairfax County on a scenic drive on Virginia Byways full of rural charm and interesting history.

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History Runs Deep at Paradise Springs Winery

Paradise Springs Winery is owned by Jane Kincheloe Wiles and her son Kirk. The vineyard is located on land granted to Jane and Kirk's ancestors by Lord Fairfax in 1716, as part of the original Fairfax Grant. The land passed down through the generations until the current owners planted a vineyard and opened the winery.

An early 1800s log cabin on the property preserves some of that family history but with a more modern update. In 1955, the cabin was renovated by a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright.

“Influences of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work can be seen throughout the renovation including the indirect lighting, hidden spaces, intricate electrical switches, small entrances into large rooms, and the concept of bringing nature indoors.”

Paradise Springs Winery
Paradise  Springs Winery Historic Cabin in Clifton VA
Paradise Springs Winery Historic Cabin

The winery tasting room occupies a lovely red barn that was originally located in downtown Fairfax. The barn was carefully disassembled in 1956 and rebuilt in its current location.

There is also history behind the Paradise Springs Winery name. Clifton was once known for its healing spring waters, which were bottled under the name Paradise Springs in 1910.

Fun in Fairfax VA had the scoop on Paradise Springs Winery even before it opened. Our original article shared news of the impending opening:

“Tomorrow, Fairfax County residents no longer have to travel to Loudoun County (and beyond) to visit wineries. Paradise Springs opens its tasting room to the public at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 16, 2010.”

Paradise Springs Winery Today

Virginia wine lovers enjoy several nice places to sip and relax at Paradise Spring Winery. On a warm day, we like the picnic tables near the vineyard. The surrounding trees are beautiful in the fall!

Colorful Fall Foliage surrounds the Paradise Springs Winery Vineyard Seating
Paradise Springs Winery Vineyard Seating

You'll find more level seating on the patio in front of the tasting barn. If a guided tasting is your goal head into the barn and find a spot at the counter.

Paradise Springs patio

Leashed dogs are welcome outside, but are not allowed in buildings, including the back patio. The back patio is also reserved for adults over 21 and is where the music acts perform. If you're visiting to watch a band, leave the kids and pups at home.

If you do have kids or pups in your group, you'll love the huge side lawn dotted with picnic tables. There is a lot of room to spread out and play.

Paradise Springs Winery Lawn Seating is dotted with picnic tables and has lots of open space.
Paradise Springs Winery Lawn Seating

Paradise Springs Winery hosts live music and special events throughout the year. The winery generally celebrates its anniversary over the Martin Luther King Day Weekend with special tastings. There is no restaurant on site, but a menu of cheese, meats, and snacks is available. You can also bring your own picnic, but check the winery FAQ for specifics.

The winery property sits near Bull Run and the Occoquan watershed. This contributes to the rich soil that makes this an ideal location for a vineyard. We highly recommend you visit the river and surrounding forest on a Bull Run Occoquan Trail hike before or after your winery visit. The scenic trail is right next to Paradise Springs, creating one of the best Hike and Winery Day Trips in Northern VA.

Also allow time to visit downtown Clifton. Fun local shops and restaurants, along with interesting history, make Clifton one of the best small towns in Northern Virginia.

Paradise Springs Winery is located at 13219 Yates Ford Road, Clifton, Virginia, 20124. The winery is open daily from 11:00 to 7:00, until 9:00 on Fridays. Find more information and the latest event info on the winery website and Facebook page.

Plan more outings with our guide to Virginia Hike and Wine Day Trips Close to Washington DC.

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Virginia / Washington DC winery travel. Paradise Springs is the closest winery to Washington DC and the oldest winery in Fairfax County, Virginia.
Paradise Springs Winery in Clifton VA
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