⏰ Meet at Beaver Creek Reservoir
This peaceful human-made lake is the starting and ending point of our adventure. Here we will do some introductions, conduct a quick safety talk, get fitted to our bikes, and run through the paces of the exciting day ahead. Then we're off on the bicycles!
Cycle, and Visit 2️⃣ Wineries
The day's ride is split up into two sections: 4 miles to an iconic winery tasting, followed by 13 miles to another forward-thinking winery for a big celebratory lunch with, of course, bottles of wine! We will be cycling mostly on quiet, countryside roads, with painting-worthy pastoral landscapes flanking you on either side. *Take note: there will be cars on the road with you. But also rest assured: the route you are riding is part of some of the most active cycling in the area!
The views are exactly what you came for: a tranquil ride past vast expanses of horse farms and extended views of the Blue Ridge Mountains just beyond. The riding is flat, with small ups and downs, and two hills that will get your blood pumping on the way up, and your "this is so much fun!!!" meter going off on the way downhill. If you decide that you do not want to ride one of the sections, you can hop into the support vehicle for easy transport to the next spot.
Refuel with Real Local Food
The bounty and variety of vegetables, fruits, grains, and meat that can be raised in Central Virginia is endless. A robust snack time at the first winery will introduce you to a few of these local artisans, and then lunch at the second winery will fill your belly and your soul with a big spread of freshly grown delights. You will wash all of this fine food down with several different white, rose, and red wines. The support vehicle will have cold water and electrolytes. Bring your own water bottle, or use one of ours.
Actively Learn About Wine
What separates this wine adventure from the rest, is the knowledge that you'll take away. Your guide has first-hand experience in wine production in Argentina, Oregon and Virginia, as well as a background in wine sales, and as a sommelier within Charlottesville's finest dining. Shifting Gears has a focus on highlighting the wineries and farms that are growing in an ecological (with nature, not against it) manner. We will talk about what ecological agriculture means for a vineyard, and we'll also see it firsthand by taking a stroll alongside sheep and cattle in the vineyard.
End to a Wonderful Day & (opt.) Shuttle Back to Town (3:30p)
What a day! And there is still time for you to visit another winery (if you care to!). We'll shuttle back to our starting point in the support vehicle, and say our goodbyes. For those who took an Uber/Lyft/Taxi to the starting point this morning, we will provide a free ride back to the downtown Charlottesville area. Photo memories of the day will be sent via email to you within 24 hours!
