Jefferson Vineyards
Thomas Jefferson and Philip Mazzei chose the very same site when they grew grapes here almost 250 years ago. Back then, our estate was the site of Virginia’s first commercial vineyard and wine company. Since 1981, this family owned winery has bottled award-winning Viognier, Meritage, Estate Reserve and Virginia’s first Petit Verdot.
Come visit our country style setting where you can taste our award winning wines and experience our beautiful location. Our property is located between Monticello and James Monroe’s Highland, only 10 minutes from downtown Charlottesville.
1353 Thomas Jefferson Parkway
Charlottesville, VA 22902
tel: (434) 977-3042
contact form: https://www.jeffersonvineyards.com/Contact
website: www.jeffersonvineyards.com
Chris Ritzcovan, Winemaker; Director of Jefferson Vineyards
Winemaking:
Each vintage tells the story of the growing season with all of its trials and tribulations. In addition to Virginia’s flagship varietal, Viognier, we also grow Chardonnay, Riesling, Petit Manseng, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. In our quest to continue Thomas Jefferson’s vision for Virginia as producing a variety of world class wines, we take the upmost care to ensure our viticultural and winemaking practices produce the highest quality fruit. We avoid using commercial concentrates or additives to intensify our wines.
Wines Typically Available:
Whites: Viognier, Chardonnay Reserve, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Vin Blanc (white blanc), Rosé
Reds: Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Meritage, Vin Rouge (red blend)
Library & Special Wines Available:
Varietal reserve wines (Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot Reserve, Cabernet Franc Reserve, Estate Reserve (white), Estate Reserve (red), Orange skin fermented wines (Viognier, Pinot Gris). Depending on the year, we also make an apple wine from our estate grown apples.
Tasting Policy:
We offer three types of tastings:
Classic tastings include eight wines and are $12. They include a souvenir glass.
Private tastings include eight classic wines, two library reserve wines, a private room for 1 hour and other treats. They are $25/person. Please call us to make a reservation.
Library wine tastings are available throughout different months of the year at $25/person.
Group Policy:
Groups of eight (8) or more guests must book a private tasting one week in advance. We do not accept tour buses, large vans or RV’s.
Hours:
Wednesday - Sunday: 11am - 5pm - Last open bottle/glass/flight sale @ 4:30pm
Please visit our website for updated details on visitation hours, policies and holidays: https://www.jeffersonvineyards.com/Visit
Food:
We serve wine pairing foods including cheeses, charcuterie, crackers, chocolates and other goodies. We also have a market at our main entrance that serves artisanal sandwiches.
Pets:
Well behaved leashed dogs are welcome on our grounds and in our main tasting room. Dogs are not allowed in our winery tasting room.