Dates: Oct 7-9; 6pm-9pm

Like fellow Virginian Thomas Jefferson, George Washington was a wine aficionado, and attempted to cultivate both Madeira and indigenous grapes at Mount Vernon, with disappointing results. Washington would be impressed with how far Virginia’s wine industry has come, as demonstrated at this annual tasting. Twenty wineries, including Barboursville, Williamsburg, Fox Meadow and, of course, Jefferson Vineyards, are showcased on the East Lawn, with its Potomac River views. Picnic blankets are encouraged. Three floors of the mansion are open, and the Mount Vernon Inn sells snacks.