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Upper Shirley Vineyards

Riverside Virginia winery where award-winning wines, Southern cuisine, and James River views create unforgettable tastings, events, and weddings amid lush vineyards.

★★★★★4.4 (392)

Perched above a stunning bend in the James River, Upper Shirley Vineyards offers award-winning wines, seasonal cuisine, and breathtaking waterfront views in a historic Virginia setting. Just 30 minutes from Richmond, this estate winery features a tasting room, expansive lawns, and is renowned for weddings and events amid 16 acres of vines.

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A brief summary to Upper Shirley Vineyards

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
600 Shirley Plantation Rd, Charles City, Virginia, 23030, US
💷
Mid ranged
🏛
Mixed
📶
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Thursday
11 am-5 pm
Friday
11 am-5 pm
Saturday
11 am-5 pm
Sunday
11 am-5 pm

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    Getting There

    Driving

    30-minute drive from Richmond (20 miles southeast); free large parking lot on-site; $0 cost.

    Public Transport

    Limited; nearest bus to Richmond then taxi/Uber (45-60 min total, ~$50-80); not ideal for groups.

    Shuttle

    Recommended for weddings from Richmond hotels; 45 min, $30-50/person depending on group size.

    For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

    Restrooms
    Drink Options
    Food Options
    Seating Areas
    Sheltered Areas
    Picnic Areas
    Trash Bins
    Visitor Center

    Local tips

    Reserve tasting room tables in advance, especially for porch seating with river views; arrive early on weekends for live music.
    Pair Petit Verdot or Viognier with seasonal charcuterie; tastings feature 10 estate wines, best enjoyed slowly.
    For weddings, book early—exclusive use includes full catering; no outside alcohol or confetti allowed.
    Explore vineyards and lawns post-tasting; wheelchair accessible with large parking lot.

    Discover more about Upper Shirley Vineyards

    Discover the Estate

    Upper Shirley Vineyards sits on a scenic riverside estate in Charles City, Virginia, overlooking the James River and the Presquile National Wildlife Refuge. Established in 2013, the 16-acre vineyard thrives in the Tidewater region's deep Pamunkey soil and river breezes, producing European varietals like Petit Verdot, Viognier, and Merlot. The Low Country-style winery blends modern elegance with Southern charm, offering panoramic views that captivate visitors year-round.

    Tasting Room Experience

    The iconic tasting room provides reserved seating with tableside service, featuring wine flights and a full menu of seasonal food offerings. Guests can enjoy indoor seating or the covered porch with spectacular river vistas. Open Thursday through Sunday from 11am to 5pm, it's perfect for casual tastings, charcuterie boards, or relaxed afternoons savoring drier whites and robust reds. Live music enhances the lively yet serene atmosphere on select days.

    Culinary Delights

    In-house culinary teams craft Southern-inspired dishes, from hors d'oeuvres to plated dinners, paired with estate wines. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options ensure inclusivity. Food service runs until 4pm, complementing tastings with fresh, seasonal flavors that highlight Virginia's bounty.

    Wedding and Events Haven

    This premier wedding venue accommodates up to 400 seated guests across 44,000 square feet, including a 14,000-square-foot banquet room, waterfront ceremony lawn, bridal suite, and groom's den. Exclusive property use, professional staff, event rentals, and full catering make it ideal for ceremonies, receptions, and celebrations. Amplified music is permitted indoors and outdoors until 11:30pm.

    Surrounding History and Nature

    Nestled near historic sites like Shirley Plantation, the vineyard invites exploration of Virginia's rich heritage. Expansive lawns, stone patios, and vineyards provide idyllic backdrops for photos and strolls, with free parking and wheelchair accessibility enhancing accessibility.

    A brief summary to Upper Shirley Vineyards

    Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

    Plan around the quieter times

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