History
The origin of our name, “Molon Lave” is a historic ancient Greek phrase that dates back to the year 480 BC, at the Battle of Thermopylae. This epic battle took place between a few thousand Greek soldiers, and thousands and thousands of invading forces, who greatly outnumbered the Greeks. The leader of the invading force, in an effort to coerce the Greeks into surrender, encouraged King Leonidas, the leader of the 300 Spartans, to surrender and give up their weapons. Leonidas’ response? “Molon Lave”, which means “Come and Get Them”. According to historians, the result of that battle has helped to shape western civilization into what it is today. It is a phrase that has inspired throughout the centuries a sense of dignity and pride, and a way of perceiving life. 
After six years of hard work and determination, and a lifelong passion, Molon Lave Vineyards is a dream come true for the Papadopoulos family. Originally from Greece, where grapes and wine have been part of the culture for centuries, Louizos, a fourth generation jeweler, located in Northern Virginia, presents a fusion of European winemaking traditions melded with grapes grown in the State. Only an hour’s drive from where it all began with Thomas Jefferson, Virginia, the first State to embrace growing grapevines, has become one of the most notable states in the nation for fine quality wines.
Our vineyard consists of nine acres on which we grow Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, Viognier, Chambourcin, Riesling, and Pinot Gris. Our goal is to plant up to twenty acres in the next couple of years.
Our award-winning Winemaker, Louis Papadopoulos, and owner of Mediterranean Cellars has made wine for all of his adult life and brings his experience and eclectic taste to the Molon Lave team.
Tastings & Tours
Daily Tastings: Molon Lave Vineyards is open for wine tastings from 11 AM until 6 PM daily. The tasting fee is $5.00 per person.
Group Tastings: Our daily tastings are also available for groups. In addition, we also offer the option for group tastings to include a full wine tasting, a glass of wine, and a signature wineglass, for $ 19.00 per person.
So that we can accommodate all of our visitors , we kindly request that groups of six or more call in advance.
Barrel Room Tastings: Barrel room tastings are held occasionally. These tastings require a minimum of ten people, and will be held privately in our barrel room. The tasting fee is $ 30.00 per person and includes a full wine tasting, a glass of wine, and a signature glass. Please check with us for available dates.
If you would like to schedule a winery tour/vineyard tour for your group (depending on the season), please make the request at the time of your reservation.
Our Wines
White Wines
- Chardonnay
- Vidal Blanc
- Vidal Blanc Semi-Sweet
Red Wines
- Merlot
- Chambourcin
- Cabernet Franc
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Autumn Nectar
- Katie’s Charm
Rose Wines
- Kokineli: Kokineli is a traditional Greek rose table wine, and is reminiscent in its flavor of Retsina; this Kokineli maintains the color of the rose wine, and the flavor is a truly unique one. Traditionally made with pine resin in Greece, our Kokineli has a distinct dry herbal taste, one that is all its own.
Our winery displays sculpted wood furniture, antique wine making equipment, warm Mediterranean décor, to provide a friendly, sophisticated atmosphere for your visit. You and your guests will fall in love with the breathtaking views of the pond, vineyards and Virginia countryside dotted with horses. The sounds of soft Mediterranean jazz, the inviting aromas of wood and wine, and the soft gentle lighting will provide the perfect ambience for your next gathering! For information about weddings and hosting private events at the winery, please email us at info@molonlavevineyards.com or call the winery at (540) 439-5460.
Molon Lave Vineyards
10075 Lees Mill Road
Warrenton, VA 20186
Phone (540) 439-5460
Fax (540) 439-5461
info@molonlavevineyards.com