This winery is a real surprise and is in a very secluded but wonderful location. The staff are great and the facilities are first rate.
We stopped by around five fifteen based on the Internet saying they where open till six. They actually close at five but Gavin was more than willing to help us. He is very knowledgeable on VA wines and gave us a great tasting experience. We went to First Colony because another winery nearby was way to busy and I am glad we did. If you are in the Charlottesville area and like wine, First Colony is a must.
We stopped by this winery just as they were closing. They informed us they were closed, but then recognized that there website said they were open an hour later, so,they invited us in. The building and grounds are beautiful. The server we had was extremely knowledgable and friendly and didn't rush us, despite his wasn't to close shop for the day. The wines were quite good and we bought a couple to take home. Definitely want to return in the Spring !
We came here last month and had a great time. For $5 a tasting, this place could not be beat. But the real winning factor was the friendly staff. I wasn't so sure about taking our little one with us, but she happily got to run around the grounds with my husband while some of us had a tasting. The staff member who helped us was so friendly, and even gave us a sample of port and another wine that were not on the tasting list, because of the way our conversation was flowing about different wines. It was so relaxing and informative, and for someone who enjoys wine but is not a connoisseur, it was a great atmosphere. We will DEFINITELY be back. The grounds were beautiful and I just can't say enough nice things. Thank you, First Colony, for making our weekend!
My husband and I visit Charlottesville at least 2-3 times a year. We visited First Colony winery at least 3 years ago. The wine was good, service was friendly, and the views are lovely. But we hadn't been there for a few years until we heard they were under new ownership. So, we decided we needed to venture over again. And boy are we glad we did! The service was still very friendly, wines were all spectacular, and the outdoor seating was comfortable and perfect place to enjoy some wine. The tasting does not include the logo glass, which is unfortunate since they are very nice, large glasses. You can purchase them for $8 each. A bit on the high side.... But, the wines are totally worth the visit. Especially the Zephyr white wine. Include First Colony on your vineyard tour in Monticello!
We stopped in as a group of 5 on a Saturday, just after 5PM. We thought we read online that they were open to 6, but we were mistaken. Upon arriving, they had just started to close, but welcomed us in anyways. The sommelier, Gavin was very accommodating, pleasant and helpful. We really have a big appreciation for full-bodied chardonnays with a nice oaky, buttery taste and he gave us a vertical chardonnay tasting of their 2013 and 2012 vintages. This was fun and interesting as we noticed obvious differences and it sparked some interesting debate between the group. But we honestly enjoy both, a LOT!Their tasting room is very nicely built (take a look at the exposed trusses on the second level!) with plenty of food and beverage offerings and a nice deck outside to sit.We really do look forward to going back when the summer months come to enjoy sitting and sipping on the deck!
First Colony's new owners are making improvements to a winery that had suffered from inconsistency over the past few years. Improvements to the wines are noticeable and they have added events. We visited recently on a Sunday when they have live music on the patio. A very relaxing afternoon. The owners, Bruce and Heather, even introduced themselves and discussed some of the changes they've made and have planned. Clearly they are infusing some energy and resources. A very enjoyable visit...thanks Bruce and Heather! We will definitely be back!!
very nice location, love the thatched roof, not far off of Rt 20, good wine and selections, some priced reasonably, staff was attentive, however we were early in the day and they were somewhat preoccupied when we arrived,
If you are in Charlottesville, you must visit! I was not expecting to enjoy this winery as much as I did. The wines are truly spectacular, the staff is fabulous, and the grounds are pretty.
I visited this vineyard and the gentleman who poured my tasting not only ignored my friend and I as much as possible but he also cursed and made rude comments about the other guests in the tasting room. Any other staff member could have provided a wonderful experience but when there are 30+ other wineries within 20 minutes, I suggest you not take the risk.