First Colony Winery-About Us

HISTORY IN THE MAKING

Winemaking in the United States has its historical roots in Virginia, where this now thriving industry began in 1607. As a descendant of George Washington's Attorney General, Edmund Randolph, Randolph McElroy, Jr. wanted to continue his family history within the wine business. Buying and opening a winery seemed like a natural fit for this Virginia native.

Growing up on a farm in Goochland, Randy always had an affinity for agriculture. After over twenty years in the construction business, Randy wanted to get back to his roots. His love for wine and the land led him to the wine business.

After establishing First Colony Winery in December of 2000, Randy began hiring a team of well-trained winemakers, viticulturists, and management staff. A strong foundation was laid with First Colony's first wines released in March, 2002. The 2001 vintage proved to be a promising one for the winery, winning over 20 awards at state, national, and international wine competitions.

Rolling fields, shaded patios, a spacious tasting room, award winning wines and a friendly staff are just a few of the offerings awaiting visitors to First Colony Winery. Located in southern Albemarle County, just 10 miles from Charlottesville, VA, First Colony's winemaking facilities and classically rustic event space have hosted wine novices and connoisseurs, as well as groups for weddings and parties of most any size. Take a tour and see wine-making in action, or relax with a glass of your favorite wine and a picnic. First Colony Winery is open every day for tours and tastings.

	STAFF
	Randy McElroy Jr Owner	As a descendant of George Washington's Attorney General, Edmund Randolph, Randolph McElroy, Jr. wanted to continue his family history within the wine business. Buying and opening a winery seemed like a natural fit for this Virginia native. Growing up on a farm in Goochland, Randy always had an affinity for agriculture. After over twenty years in the construction business, Randy wanted to get back to his roots. His love for wine and the land led him to the wine business. After establishing First Colony Winery in December of 2000, Randy began hiring a team of well-trained winemakers, viticulturists, and management staff.
	Martha Soden General Manager	Born and raised in Indiana, Martha came to Virginia in 2001 to attend James Madison University. During her time there, she studied abroad in Antwerp, Belgium earning a Concentration in European Business. After graduating with a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management, she went on to become a manager in the award-winning dining services program at Virginia Tech. She moved to Charlottesville and joined the First Colony team as Tasting Room Manager in early April of 2007 and was promoted to General Manager in August of 2008.
	Benoit Pineau Winemaker	Benoit's passion for wine can be traced back to his grandparents, vinegrowers near Tours in the Loire Valley. Curious to discover the different worlds of winemaking and after earning a BTS Viticulure Oenology in Bordeaux (2003), he worked with wineries in France, Chile, Australia, Virginia, Canada, and California. In 2006 Benoit received his Masters Degree in Oenology from the University of Toulouse. Now settled in Virginia with his wife, he enjoys working with the First Colony Team.
	Fritz The Winery Cat Back to Top	Fritz joined the First Colony family in 2006 when he appeared on the property as a stray kitten with two broken legs. Since that time, he has made a full recovery and adjusted well to the domesticated life. He is employed as the official Tasting Room greeter and does his job with great enthusiasm when he is not eating or sleeping. Fritz enjoys supervising wine tastings and sharing picnics with generous guests. He has aspirations of one day owning the winery.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. How much does it cost to tour and taste?
We are open weekdays from 10 AM to 6 PM, and weekends 11AM to 6PM. Tastings are $5.00, and the tasting fees are waived for two people with a purchase of three or more bottles.

2. Do you serve lunch or dinner?
We do not serve regular meals, though we do have a kitchen for catering special events. We serve delicious handmade Amish cheeses and a variety of crackers and snacks. Groups of less then ten people are welcome to bring a picnic and enjoy it at the winery at no charge. Groups of ten or more should click here.

3. Where are you located?
We are located just 10 miles south of I-64 off Route 20 in Albemarle County. See below for detailed directions.

4. Do you ship wine?
We would love to ship you some wine! Unfortunately, there are laws restricting shipment to some states. Please click here to visit our e-commerce site. (link to e-commerce)

5. Are there any local places to spend the night?
There are several great Bed and Breakfasts as well as hotels in the area. Some we recommend are:

The Boar's Head Inn http://www.boarsheadinn.com

Arcady Vineyard B and B www.arcadyvineyard.com
Dinsmore House http://www.dinsmorehouse.com
200 South Street Inn http://www.southstreetinn.com
Inn at Monticello http://www.innatmonticello.com
Inn at Court Square http://www.innatcourtsquare.com
Wintergreen Resort http://www.wintergreenresortrental.com
Keswick Hall http://www.keswick.com
Omni Hotel http://www.omnihotels.com
The Inn at Sugar Hollow Farm http://www.sugarhollow.com/
Chester http://www.chesterbed.com

High Meadows Inn http://www.highmeadows.com

Visit http://www.soveryvirginia.com for a more complete list.

6. Do you do weddings?
Yes. We are happy to accommodate you and up to 150 guests. You can choose from a variety of options in our indoor and outdoor facilities. Click here to see our list of suggested caterers or you can bring your own.

7. What is included for special events?
Space, table, chairs and one First Colony Winery employee for the night. All food and beverage service is coordinated through your caterer. Linen, dinnerware and glasses are NOT included. Wine can be purchased ahead of time for a 20% discount on any quantity.

8. How much do private parties cost?
Cost will vary depending on how much space you require and the number of guests in your party. Click here for detail pricing information.

9. Is wine included for private events?
Wine is NOT included in private party cost, but can be purchased for 20% discount for any quantity prior to your event. Click here for information about our wines.

10. Can we bring in outside alcoholic beverages?
Outside alcoholic beverages (with the exception of outside wines) are permissible if you or your caterer has the appropriate ABC licensing.

11. Do you have a kitchen?
We do have a kitchen with ample space for your caterer.

12. When can we decorate for the event?
Decoration of the Randolph Room may begin at 10:30am on the day of the event. All other rooms may be decorated after 5pm on the day of the event.

13. What if my question is not listed here?
No Problem! Click here to contact us.

DIRECTIONS

First Colony Winery is located in beautiful Charlottesville, Virginia.

Our address is:

1650 Harris Creek Road
Charlottesville, VA 22902

Click here for a map

Click here for Mapquest directions

Please feel free to call or email us for more detailed directions

Phone: 434-979-7105
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Monday-Friday 10am-6pm Saturday-Sunday 11am-6pm