Dream Trip: Napa Valley, CA

Real trip: Charlottesville, VA

Distance from DC: 2.5 hours

Now that St. Patty's Day is over, it's time to get classy again and fill the wine glass. While I adore the beverage, I admit that when presented with a wine list- I generally opt for whatever is cheapest. It is not too long ago that much of my vino came from a box- but I've moved on. However, much like my aspirations to be a foodie, I would like to know more about wine then the price tag. Unfortunately, I have neither the bank account or vacation time to take an official Wine Country vacation to California's famed Napa Valley. I can, however, swing a tank of gas or a train ticket out to lovely Charlottesville, Virginia.

Home to the University of Virginia, designer boutiques, historic buildings, and some of Virginia's best restaurants, the charming town offers the best of both worlds- a vibrant downtown with easy access to the picturesque Virginia countryside. Better yet, if you anticipate taking full advantage of all the wine "tastings", there's no need for a DD. Both Greyhound and Amtrak provide service to Charlottesville from Washington.

Thomas Jefferson is to Charlottesville what Bruce Springsteen is to Freehold, NJ (my hometown)- a local hero. Monticello, Jefferson's estate, remains one of the town's biggest tourist attractions. His impact is apparent just about everywhere you turn, but I'm most appreciative of his contributions to Virginia's wine industry. Since

Jefferson's time, the quality of Virginia wine and number of vineyards has increased. Now known as the Monticello Wine Trail, the numerous wineries in and around Charlottesville are proof that Jefferson's dreams have come true. There are 21 wineries in the Monticello region, and they have been conveniently been grouped geographically into four separate trails. Since most of the vineyards on the trail are just outside of Charlottesville, you'll need to either driver or sign up for one of the many wine tours that depart from the center of town.

If you've dragged a gentleman with you on the wine trail, reward him by ending the day at Charlottesville's classic college bar- Miller's. Best known as the place where the Dave Matthews Band got its start, Miller's is a former drug store that hosts local musicians and fills up quickly every night. Or, if you're interested in a different kind of trail, take advantage of being so close to the Shenandoah National Park and explore one of the many hiking trails off of Skyline Drive. Refuel with dinner at one of the many, many great restaurants downtown. In fact, Charlottesville's restaurant scene has become so renowned that they now offer their very own Restaurant Week, with $26 three-course meals. Wine isn't included, but I think you will have already had your fill. No Franzia in sight.