Wine sales in Virginia have reached a new all-time high in Financial Year (FY) 2013, said Governor Bob McDonnell during his visit to Chatham Vineyards on ‘This Commonwealth of Opportunity’ tour.

In 2013, wineries in Virginia sold 511,000 cases, up by over 5%, compared to 485,000 cases sold in 2012, according to data by the Virginia Department of Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) and the Virginia Wine Marketing Office.

The sales of Virginia wines have increased by over 23% since 2010.

From FY12-13, the in-state sales of Virginia wine have increased by nearly 3%, whereas wine sales through Virginia wineries have increased by nearly 6%.

Similarly, wine sales to distributors outside of Virginia increased by over 60% during the year.

Virginia wines are currently being sold in states including Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, New York, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Washington.

International sales of Virginia wines increased by over 74% from 3,300 cased in 2012 to over 5,800 in 2013.

McDonnell said sales have reached a new record high and tourism to wineries continues to grow.

"With the outstanding product being produced by our grape growers and wine makers, it’s no surprise that more and more people are buying Virginia wines and experiencing our wineries and vineyards. I’m pleased our administration’s focus on promoting Virginia wines and wine tourism both here and abroad is helping the Commonwealth’s wine industry to grow and expand," McDonnell added.

"From serving only Virginia wines at the Executive Mansion to marketing them during all domestic and international trade missions, we have taken every step possible to help create new sales and generate more jobs and economic opportunities all across the Commonwealth."