James River Cellars Winery

James River Cellars Winery is Richmond's oldest winery, set on a 20-acre former farm in Montpelier, Virginia that founder Ray Lazarchic converted into a vineyard after discovering a shared passion for Gewürztraminer with his daughter Mitzi and her husband James Batterson. Opened in 2001, the winery remains family-run today: Mitzi oversees the business, James produces every wine on-site, and Ray tends the property's landscaping. The winery's signature Gewürztraminer, a drier Alsatian-style wine with white spice and floral notes, has become its calling card. For weddings and private celebrations, the winery offers a covered 45'x80' Pavilion overlooking a landscaped lawn, complete with a private bridal suite, a 20'x20' bonus tent, and space for up to 150 guests. Smaller gatherings can book the Montpelier Room or the Hanover Room and Ashland Overlook, both banquet-style spaces suited to seated dinners or cocktail receptions. A James River Cellars property coordinator is on site for every event, and outside caterers are welcome throughout the venue.