Upper Shirley Vineyards is a beautiful space! I came here with a group to celebrate our friends who…read moregot engaged that day. It was a beautiful sunshiny day! We wanted to sit outside, but if you want to do self-service, you have to sit beyond the patio. There wasn't a lot of shaded seating left so we decided to go by the river with some blankets for more shade (we were a group of eight). We ordered both of their roses. I really enjoyed their bubbly rose. We also go the truffle fries and charcuterie board to share. We enjoyed munching on those. They have women and mens restrooms indoors. There is a lot of free parking out front. There are indoor seats available, but I believe inside and the patio are only for full service. If you want something a bit closer to the city, this is a pretty spot.

Well this was a second visit here with the first time last fall (September 2024). Today (July…read more2025) we found out that in our opinion this place is consistent. Each visit we brought out of town visiting guess for lunch and flight tasting. Let first talk about the meals. This time I decided on a burger and chips. It was a nice size meal and perfectly cooked. The wifey had the Turkey Bacon Ranch Panini with chips. She liked it and it also was a very filling meal. My guest has the Southwest Cobb Salad and she really liked it and the portion was huge. She ended up taking about 1/2 home for a late dinner. The Truffle Fries appetizer was outstanding and also a very large portion. The both ladies did have wine flights and both found a wine that they really enjoyed. As for service: our young lady was very nice and took decent care of us. She checked on us a couple times during our nearly 2 hour stay. As for the location: We love it. The view on a sunny day of the water/grounds from the patio deck is wonderful. Although on both times of my visits we have eaten outside but the inside is really nice and cool inside on hot day like today was. One last thing - reservations. We made a request for the outside patio and we got exactly what we wanted. We are also glad we made reservations because we would not have been outside without them today. The inside although a nice crowd - wasn't full. There were tables. But with all this said I highly suggest reservations. So go and enjoy your visit at USV.

A fun stop! Lots of seating areas which made it nice to spread out. Live music some weekends…read morewhich was really nice. The wines are good and the food selection is plentiful. The baked Brie was our favorite! It wasn't crowded so it wasn't bad going inside to order but when crowded it might be a pain. The staff were very friendly and welcoming!

Review for New Kent Winery - Where Vines Meet Vibes…read more We popped into New Kent Winery one sunny afternoon while cruising down to Virginia Beach -- because what's a road trip without a little wine country detour, am I right? This place? Massive. Immaculate. It's giving modern farmhouse chic meets Napa-lite. Think soaring ceilings, airy spaces, and a patio that overlooks the vineyards like it was built for sipping and Instagramming. If your aesthetic is "refined with a hint of rosé," you'll be right at home. They've got a monster wine list -- obviously -- but plot twist: they also brew their own beer(Talleysville Brewery). So, if you're rolling in with someone who's more hops than grapes, they're covered too. The food menu is small but mighty -- just enough to keep your buzz from turning into a dizzy spell. We ordered the spinach dip with tortilla chips (creamy, garlicky, devourable) and paired it with a flight of four beers: * Cerveza con Limón y Sal - A crisp Mexican lager with zesty citrus vibes. Summer in a glass. * Old Church Vienna Lager - Malty, slightly sweet, with a bit of a bitter bite. A polite handshake of a beer. * Double Cut IPA (Galaxy & El Dorado) - Hoppy, punchy, and packing that metallic aftertaste my wife adores (I'm still working on liking it). * Black Knight Stout - A dark and brooding Irish stout with Bugle Call coffee. Basically, an espresso martini's beer cousin who rides a motorcycle. Service? Smooth, friendly, and on top of it. No complaints there. Overall, New Kent is the kind of place that makes you say, "Wait, why don't we stop here more often?" Whether you're in it for the views, the vibes, or a good pour, it delivers.

Came here for a girls wine tasting. Jolene Family Winery is located in Kent County, VA, about a 40…read moreminute drive from Richmond. The winery is situated by a river. There was parking available, but if you come late, you may have difficulty finding a spot. We entered the building and proceeded to the counter to check out what they offered. The staff were pleasant and patient in explaining the various wines and other beverages they offered. The ambiance was chill, as we had visited on a Saturday which also included a food truck onsite and live music. We settled on the nine-sample tasting which was only $20, a great deal in our opinion. It consisted of 3 whites, 1 rose, 4 reds, and one tasting at the end that we could choose the flavor: raspberry or peach; some chose raspberry some peach. There was plenty of seating inside and outside. There was an outdoor covering, in the event of inclement weather, which also housed a fire hearth, good for a fire roaring chilly night of wine tasting. There were also outside open seating with tables. We also noted that folks were bringing their own chairs, which was a good move given that the crowd grew the longer we were there. Our tasting was nice: we were given a metal tray that held our tastings with a paper under that identified each wine and also given a paper with a description of the notes of each wine. It was mix of dry and sweet red and white blends, which was good. We all had a favorite with one clear winner: the last peach wine of the tasting! You could also purchase wine by the glass, bottle, or to go, in addition to wine slushes. They also had snacks such as cheese, crackers, dried meats, perfect for making your own charcuterie board to nibble on with your wine. There were also folks who brought their own snacks. The food truck on site was Cousin's Main Lobster specializing in all things lobster. They had the traditional lobster roll, lobster grilled cheese, lobster quesadilla , lobster tacos, lobster bisque, etc. We ordered the traditional lobster roll with mayo (they also had one with garlic butter and one with Parmesan), lobster quesadilla, lobster tacos, and shrimp tacos. The food was ok, nothing stood out overall. The seafood was fresh and did lack seasoning, but overall, good. The winery also had local artisan items for sale such as jewelry, t-shirts, wine glasses, throw pillows, etc. We also saw that this was a family and dog-friendly winery as there were plenty of both there. The winery overlooked a lake, which was picture perfect. There was a duo playing music under an outside pavilion stage. All in all, a great afternoon sipping wine with friends and family.

Took a random trip to Jolene's while trying to figure out how to spend a day with nice weather and…read moreit definitely didn't disappoint. Ended up trying different wine flights and they had a lot of options that I definitely enjoyed. They occasionally have live music, and it sits right on the lake, which is definitely a nice way to spend the day. Ended up coming back with my mother and she loved the place Everyone was so nice and knowledgeable and I definitely felt right at home. Definitely think this is a good spot if you're looking for something chill to do on a nice day.

Living in Richmond, it was a treat to make a short drive to the southside to Chester to visit…read moreAshton Creek! The grounds were well maintained and the outdoor seating was nice, pretty views of the vineyards. The inside was rather plain, but nice, it would be better with some wine themed decor, a bit industrial for my taste. The restrooms were clean and had unique fixtures. Our service was super quick and the folks there were friendly and informative! We all ordered various flights of wine to try. I ordered the Lady May Rosé, the Ta Ta Tannat Rosé and the Lori Ann Cab Franc, which were all lovely. I do prefer the rosé blends. We also ordered the charcuterie board and it was huge and full of meats, cheeses, crostini, fruits, and various chutneys. It was marvelous. We also devoured the massive Bavarian pretzel with cheese and mustard dips. The menu also offered salads, tacos, sandwiches, appetizers, and desserts. The food was excellent and went well with our wine flights! I'd like to go back and try some of their whites and more reds!! The prices were very reasonable and we went home with several bottles of wine!!

Well let me say I've seen bunch of friends come here and love it. All these years passing this…read moreplace we have never been. Well this weekend we had family in town and this is what we chose. First the place: Really nice and seems very well kept. I know the place is 8 years old or maybe a little more. Since it was terribly humid and with rain nearby we decided to stay inside. Staff: We were greeted by a nice lady who took her time explaining the wines and getting us ready for our visit. Again she was very friendly and helpful. Meals: It was all very tasty. There were four of us, so we shared samples with each other. The really good thing was the Buttermilk Chicken. Well done. Perfectly fried and had a really great taste. The order of fries (Tuscan Parm) had a nice flavor. We all like it. I do think for portion was slightly smaller vs the cost. Again only by a little bit. The Wines: I was driving so only tea for me. But my guests and my wife all found wines they really enjoyed. I will say this the Side Way's 2023 was liked by all of us. So I will say we all enjoyed this place and its offerings. I would suggest a visit. I am also confident we will be back. I actually give it a solid 4 1/2 stars but I rounded up since that wasn't an option and the place was too good to round down.

What a beautiful establishment. Not only is the building interior and exterior beautiful, but the…read moregrounds are beautiful as well. I have been to Saude Creek, two times now. I do with there were a better offering of snacks/food available inside. But, there has always been a food truck available with hot food offerings. As for activities I have been there once for an even Rusted Rabbit has hosted. While there I was able to sample/purchase some wine to try. The event was nice and very well thought out. We were located upstairs which has a balcony that over looks the back of the property. My friends have raved about their wines and even sangria. There has been people there singing and a band once. So it was nice to have some entertainment. I enjoyed sitting outside on the porch. We even sat down below the exterior where it was quieter. The staff have always been accommodating, knowledgeable on their product and kind. The grounds has always been well put together and clean. There is defintly attention to detail throughout the property.

Great rainy afternoon at Saudé Creek Vineyards with friends! This afternoon we met up with friends…read morefor a little wine therapy. All of their wines are great, and we were able to bring in our own food spread, which makes the wine even better! Added bonus, there was live music to brighten up the dreary day. On a sunny day, this winery has gorgeous grounds to enjoy the weather.

We had a really fun Sunday afternoon at Gauthier for a Paella class conducted by the chef at…read moreSaudade, formerly La Tienda. The class was held at Gauthier's event center. Chef Greg demonstrated how to prepare two types of paella: chicken and seafood. They also had a good selection of salads, crudite, cheese, and meats, as well as almond cookies and brownies. Everything was very good. We enjoyed Gauthier wine with our food. For whites, they sold Chardonnay and Viognier. For reds they had Cab Franc and Petit Verdot. Gauthier has some nice wines. It was a fun afternoon, and they will be hosting more events like this in the future.

This is one of my favorite wineries! All of their wines are great, but we especially love their…read moreNorton! Fun afternoon on their covered deck with friends. All of the winery staff was friendly and helpful, as always. Today we got to experience baked oyster from Big Island Aquaculture with our wine...super yummy! Great experience!

My first-ever winery visit was to Summer Wind Winery, and it was everything I hoped it would be…read more I've always wanted to do something like this, and when my relatives came to town looking for something chill but vibey, my Uncle Daryl found the perfect spot. Even the ride there set the tone it was scenic & peaceful, and full of wide-open fields that felt like a refreshing change. It was the kind of drive that makes you slow down and just enjoy the moment. Once we arrived, the winery itself was stunning bold, beautiful. The wine selection was impressive, and I loved getting to explore different flavors. I figured out which wines I enjoy most, which ones aren't for me, and felt like I had a truly immersive first-time tasting experience. The staff at Summer Wind were amazing knowledgeable, friendly, and patient in answering my questions. Although I didn't get to order food this time, I saw plates coming out of the kitchen that looked absolutely delicious, so that's definitely on my list for next visit. I enjoyed myself so much that I'd love to make this a yearly tradition around this time of year. Summer Wind Winery gave me not just great wine, but a great memory, and I'll absolutely be back.

We visited SWV on a Saturday afternoon. The vineyard has beautiful views. Upon arrival, we were…read morecheerfully welcomed by the staff and presented with flight options. The pear sangria was refreshing. SWV offers a variety of food options which SWV freshly prepares upon ordering. SWV has indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor patio is adorned with colorful umbrellas, tables and chairs with spectacular nature views. The indoor seating is adjacent to the tasting room and well air conditioned. We enjoyed the wine & food at SWV and recommend that you visit SWV for an enjoyable wine tasting experience.

Great winery off the beaten path! Pet friendly and great VA wine! Perfect patio to enjoy the peace…read moreand quiet. Check it put!

An amazing find in a neck of the woods that isn't known for wine country. I didn't know what to…read moreexpect, but was blown away how good they are, especially given how this is a smaller winery. Skipper's Creek has 5 acres of vines and makes under 1000 cases/year. Co-owner Chuck was joking that he likes having a day job since it lets him afford hiring people to do some of the 'farm' work, letting him concentrate on the wine making. Well, his division of labor seems to be working out well, because out of the entire lineup, I liked-to-loved everything. Prices were exceptionally good too. 2013 Chardonnay: Blended with 20% Viognier, made in steel. Lemongrass notes and tangy/tart finish. 2014 Chardonnay: Blended in American Oak & steel. I don't have good tasting notes but I remember liking it. 2015 Chardonnay: Oak and steel, buttery nose and notes of oak and butterscotch. 2014 Viognier: Made in steel, melon flavor. 2015 Viognier: I can't find my wine tasting notes, but I remember it was ok. 2014 Merriwether red blend: 60% Cab Franc, 20% Petit Verdot, 20% Merlot. Black cherry nose & finish. My friend bought a bottle (and at $19 it was a steal). 2014 Malbec: Soft cherry notes; a real winner! Aged in Hungarian Oak for 2 years. I rarely find Malbecs in this area (and Chuck admitted it didn't grow exceptionally well) but was very good, especially at $21 a bottle. Bought two. 2014 Petit Verdot: Good, but the way they pressed the grapes resulted in the wine not having the tannins that I'm accustomed too in PVs (I'm a Tannin-fanatic). Also aged in Hungarian oak for 2 years.

Great local winery with plenty of seating, wine to choose from, and friendly service! On a weekday,…read moreit is pretty quiet and on weekends it gets pretty busy. There is seating outdoors, and plenty of space! You'll likely be met at the door by a friendly greeter - Nancy is amazing and helpful! Hopefully this winery gets a full food menu back, it's the only reason I took off a star!

Wonderful winery! Joined the wine club on my first visit. The restaurant is delicious too and the…read moreoysters, oh my! Raw or Rockefeller, they're so good. I love sitting outside and very often they have music. My favorite go to easy choice is the two shillings Red, but the governors white is great too. And what a beautiful place! Perfect place to relax on a beautiful afternoon .