image source jeffersonvineyards.com
Jefferson Vineyards, minutes from downtown Charlottesville
Jefferson Vineyards is a family-owned and operated winery located minutes away from downtown Charlottesville, Virginia. This vineyard is steeped in history, as it’s situated on a historic site where Thomas Jefferson and Philip Mazzei began to grow grapes in the US in 1774. This made it Virginia’s first commercial vineyard. The modern version of the vineyard was planted in 1988 and the winery was established in 2001.
A Taste of History
Jefferson Vineyards offers a range of award-winning wines produced from grapes grown on the estate and are available for you to purchase at the winery, online, and through select local retailers. While they do not have a full restaurant, they serve wine pairing foods which include the normal winery items like cheeses, charcuterie, crackers, and chocolates. They usually offer 3 seasonal flight options. Each flight includes up to 4 wines for a total of 8 ounces per flight. If you want to skip the tasting or add on to it, an assortment of wines by the glass and a diverse range of wines by the bottle are also available for you to sip on. While the vineyards welcomes well-behaved leashed dogs on their property, they are not allowed inside the larger tasting room building. If you plan to visit near the holidays, please note that they are closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Days.
Going Above and Beyond
Jefferson Vineyards has won numerous awards for their wines. With Virginia’s favorite grape, Viognier, they have won several awards including Double Gold at the 2020 San Francisco International Wine Competition and a Best In Class award at the 2019 Atlantic Seaboard. Additionally, they have been consistently winning awards for their wines at prestigious events such as the Virginia Governor's Cup, the Monticello Cup, and the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
The Grapes
As I mentioned above, Jefferson Vineyards offers a range of award-winning wines. The winery's wine series really showcases the true characteristics of grapes grown in Virginia and includes a wonderful assortment of red and white wines.
image source jeffersonvineyards.com
Popular Jefferson Vineyards Wines:
- Viognier
- Chardonnay
- Estate Reserve Meritage
- Petit Verdot
Special Moments
Jefferson Vineyards allows exclusive use of their beautiful grounds for wedding photography sessions on days they are closed to the public. That is Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday during their normal operating hours. You can choose a two-hour time slot, which must be arranged in advance and confirmed with prior agreement. The vineyard also offers wine clubs and promotions for their subscribers if you choose to go that route. Jefferson Vineyards also plays host to several events throughout the year. Music in the Garden is a popular series that occurs every Sunday from 2 PM to 4 PM, weather permitting.
With how close Jefferson Vineyards is to Charlottesville, it’s a quick trip out in the beautiful country. Let your hair down and relax as you drive the windy roads that lead to Jefferson Vineyards where you can have a glass of wine and view the surroundings.. Cheers!
CLOSED
Thanksgiving Day, December 24th, and December 25th