Discover a different side of Virginia wine country, where Black entrepreneurship, five-star hospitality, scenic vineyards and historic small towns come together for an unforgettable getaway.
Virginia wine country offers more than vineyard tours and tasting rooms. Just outside Washington, D.C., the rolling countryside of Loudoun County and Middleburg is home to elegant estates, acclaimed wineries, equestrian traditions and one of America’s most celebrated Black-owned luxury resorts.
At the center of this experience is Salamander Middleburg, the Forbes Five-Star resort owned by hospitality entrepreneur Sheila Johnson. Nearby, Fifty Leven Wine, founded by Black wine entrepreneur Kindra Dionne, is helping introduce new audiences to Virginia wines through curated cultural and social experiences.
Together, their stories offer travelers a compelling way to explore Virginia wine country while discovering the entrepreneurs reshaping luxury hospitality and the wine industry.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, couples’ getaway, wellness retreat or celebration with friends, here’s how to experience Black-owned luxury in Northern Virginia.
Salamander Middleburg | Check Availability
A Black-Owned Five-Star Resort in Virginia Wine Country
Located in the historic town of Middleburg, approximately one hour from Washington, D.C., Salamander Middleburg is a 340-acre luxury resort surrounded by Virginia’s horse farms, vineyards and Blue Ridge Mountain scenery.
The resort features 168 guestrooms and suites, a 23,000-square-foot spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, fine dining and an equestrian center offering horseback riding experiences.
For wine-country visitors, the location is particularly appealing. Guests can explore nearby wineries during the day and return to the resort for spa treatments, an elegant dinner or a quiet evening overlooking the countryside.
What makes Salamander Middleburg special?
- Black-owned luxury hospitality: Founded and owned by Sheila Johnson, entrepreneur and founder of Salamander Collection.
- Five-Star recognition: The hotel, Salamander Spa and Harrimans restaurant have earned Forbes Five-Star distinctions.
- Wine-country location: Conveniently situated for exploring Middleburg and Loudoun County wineries.
- Wellness and relaxation: Spa treatments, pools, fitness facilities and scenic outdoor spaces.
- Equestrian experiences: Horseback riding and activities celebrating Virginia’s horse-country heritage.
- Romantic and group getaways: Suitable for anniversaries, birthdays, couples’ escapes and upscale retreats.
Ownership & Heritage: Sheila Johnson’s Vision for Inclusive Luxury
Salamander Middleburg is more than an upscale country resort. It represents the vision of Sheila C. Johnson, a pioneering Black businesswoman, philanthropist and co-founder of Black Entertainment Television (BET).
Johnson established Salamander Collection in 2005 and developed Salamander Middleburg as the company’s flagship luxury destination. The resort opened in 2013, bringing her vision of refined hospitality, welcoming service and exceptional guest experiences to Virginia’s historic horse country.
Today, Salamander Middleburg is among the country’s most prominent examples of Black-owned luxury resort hospitality.
Its success demonstrates that Black ownership and leadership are integral to the American luxury travel industry—not separate from it.
Meet Kindra Dionne: The Black Entrepreneur Behind Fifty Leven Wine
Virginia’s wine-country story also includes Kindra Dionne, founder of Fifty Leven Wine, a Black-owned wine company based in Leesburg, Loudoun County.
Launched in 2021, Fifty Leven was created to make wine more approachable and culturally relevant to a wider audience. Dionne developed a collection of wines with an emphasis on flavor, food pairings, personal connections and shared experiences.
Her approach reflects a growing movement among Black wine entrepreneurs who are expanding representation in an industry where Black ownership has historically been limited.
More Than a Wine Brand
Rather than operating a conventional public winery or permanent tasting room, Fifty Leven focuses on wine experiences, private events, collaborations and curated gatherings.
Dionne has also worked with Salamander Middleburg, bringing together two Black-owned businesses operating in complementary areas of luxury hospitality and wine.
For visitors, the connection highlights an important part of the destination’s appeal: opportunities to discover Black-owned businesses while enjoying the wider Virginia wine-country experience.
Travel tip: Fifty Leven is not a walk-in vineyard tasting room. Check their official website for current events, purchasing information and available experiences before planning a visit.
Where to Go Wine Tasting Near Middleburg, Virginia
Middleburg is located within the federally recognized Middleburg Virginia American Viticultural Area (AVA), a winegrowing region extending across parts of Loudoun and Fauquier counties.
The surrounding countryside is known for scenic vineyards, rolling hills and tasting rooms that offer a relaxed alternative to larger wine destinations.
Several established wineries are worth considering during a Middleburg getaway.
Boxwood Estate Winery
Located near Middleburg, Boxwood Estate Winery produces estate-grown wines inspired by Bordeaux traditions. Its vineyard setting and contemporary tasting facilities make it a popular stop for visitors exploring Virginia’s wine region.
Greenhill Vineyards
Greenhill Vineyards offers guided wine tastings and countryside views near Middleburg. It’s a convenient choice for guests looking to combine a winery experience with a stay at Salamander Middleburg.
Chrysalis Vineyards
Chrysalis Vineyards is especially known for its work with Norton, a historic American grape variety. The vineyard provides another opportunity to discover the diversity of wines produced in Northern Virginia.
Explore Beyond Middleburg
Travelers with additional time can visit other Loudoun County wine destinations, including Leesburg, Hamilton and Bluemont.
These wineries are recommended for their wine experiences and locations; they are not presented as Black-owned businesses. Verify individual ownership independently when seeking specifically Black-owned wineries.
A Three-Day Black-Owned Luxury Wine-Country Getaway
For travelers looking to combine luxury lodging, wine, culture and relaxation, a long weekend in Middleburg offers an appealing itinerary.
Day 1: Arrive, Unwind and Experience Salamander
Arrive in Middleburg and check into Salamander Middleburg.
Spend the afternoon exploring the resort grounds or enjoying a treatment at Salamander Spa.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at Harrimans or visit Gold Cup Wine Bar for a relaxed introduction to the region’s wines.
Day 2: Explore Virginia Wine Country
After breakfast, explore the countryside and visit one or two local wineries, such as Boxwood Estate Winery or Greenhill Vineyards.
Allow time to appreciate the landscape, learn about Virginia wines and enjoy lunch.
If you are interested in Fifty Leven Wine, check whether Kindra Dionne has any scheduled public events or curated experiences during your visit.
Return to Salamander Middleburg for a leisurely evening.
Planning note: Arrange a designated driver or transportation service when visiting multiple wineries.
Day 3: Historic Middleburg and Horse Country
Spend your final morning exploring downtown Middleburg, with its historic buildings, independent shops, cafés and galleries.
Depending on your interests, consider visiting the National Sporting Library & Museum or arranging an equestrian experience at Salamander Middleburg.
For a slower-paced getaway, enjoy breakfast and additional time at the resort before departing.
More Black-Owned Businesses to Discover in Loudoun County
Supporting Black-owned businesses in Virginia wine country can extend beyond hotels and wine.
Loudoun County’s tourism organization has highlighted several Black entrepreneurs contributing to the area’s food and cultural scene.
Among them are:
- Fifty Leven Wine, founded by Kindra Dionne in Leesburg.
- Jules Caribbean BBQ, operated by Surinamese-born pitmaster Jules Foeaman, bringing Caribbean flavors to Loudoun County.
- Chantel’s Bakery, operated by chef-owner Dennis Stanley in Sterling, offering cakes, pastries and specialty baked goods.
Check current locations, operating schedules and availability before visiting.
These businesses provide additional ways to experience the region through its entrepreneurs and local communities.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Virginia Wine Country?
Virginia wine country is a year-round destination, with each season offering a different experience.
Spring: Blooming countryside, outdoor activities and comfortable conditions for exploring vineyards.
Summer: Lush landscapes, outdoor dining, resort pools and longer days for countryside excursions.
Fall: Vineyard harvest season, colorful foliage and particularly scenic drives through horse country.
Winter: Cozy luxury escapes, spa weekends, fine dining and quieter visits to historic Middleburg.
For couples seeking a romantic getaway, spring and fall are especially appealing. Travelers interested primarily in spa treatments and resort relaxation may find winter equally rewarding.
Frequently Asked Questions: Black-Owned Luxury in Virginia Wine Country
Are there Black-owned luxury hotels in Virginia wine country?
Yes. Salamander Middleburg in Middleburg, Virginia, is a Black-owned Forbes Five-Star luxury resort owned by entrepreneur Sheila Johnson. It offers upscale accommodations, a spa, dining and equestrian activities in Northern Virginia’s horse and wine country.
Who owns Salamander Middleburg?
Salamander Middleburg is owned by Sheila C. Johnson, co-founder of BET and founder of Salamander Collection, the luxury hospitality company she established in 2005.
Is Salamander Middleburg near wineries?
Yes. Salamander Middleburg is located in the Middleburg Virginia wine region, with wineries such as Boxwood Estate Winery and Greenhill Vineyards within driving distance.
Is Fifty Leven Wine Black-owned?
Yes. Fifty Leven Wine is a Black-owned wine company founded by Kindra Dionne in Leesburg, Virginia, in 2021.
Does Fifty Leven Wine have a tasting room?
Fifty Leven does not currently operate a conventional public tasting room. Its business emphasizes wine products, collaborations, private events and curated experiences. Visitors should check its official website for current opportunities.
Is Middleburg, Virginia, a good destination for a romantic weekend?
Yes. Middleburg combines luxury accommodations, wineries, countryside views, fine dining and spa experiences, making it a strong option for romantic getaways, anniversaries and couples’ retreats.
How far is Middleburg from Washington, D.C.?
Middleburg is approximately 45 miles west of Washington, D.C. Driving time varies with traffic, but the area is commonly described as about an hour from the capital.
Can you visit Virginia wine country without drinking wine?
Absolutely. Middleburg offers historic attractions, shopping, horseback riding, spa treatments, fine dining, nature activities and scenic drives. Wine tasting is only one part of the destination experience.
Where can I book Black-owned luxury hotels in Virginia?
Black Hotel Guide helps travelers discover Black-owned and Black-led accommodations, including luxury resorts such as Salamander Middleburg. Explore the property’s listing on Black Hotel Guide and use the available booking links to complete your reservation through a booking partner.
Plan Your Virginia Wine-Country Getaway with Black Hotel Guide
From the vineyards of Loudoun County to the elegance of Salamander Middleburg, Northern Virginia offers an appealing combination of luxury, culture, relaxation and Black entrepreneurship.
Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, planning a romantic weekend or simply looking for somewhere new to explore, Virginia wine country deserves a place on your travel list
Explore Black-owned and Black-led hotels and stays, discover the stories behind them, and book your next getaway through Black Hotel Guide.
Before You Book — Check Black Hotel Guide First.
Same Price. Bigger Impact.
