Slowing down comes naturally at the award-winning Williamsburg Winery, set on the historic Wessex Hundred farm near Jamestown Settlement. Whether you’re meandering through the vineyards, savoring a wine tasting, or indulging in a delectable al fresco dinner, the estate offers a peaceful retreat into nature and local flavors. From tastings and tours to the European-inspired boutique hotel on-site, discover the many ways to unwind at the Williamsburg Winery.
Wander the Historic Wessex Hundred Farm
One of the simplest ways to decompress at the Williamsburg Winery is to explore the scenic Wessex Hundred farm. Embrace a connection to nature with 400 acres of woods, fields, gardens, and vineyards – all thanks to the living legacy of winery founder Patrick G. Duffeler.
Duffeler discovered the property after searching over 50 farms and began working to transform the land into a winery. He named the estate Wessex Hundred, honoring a Colonial-era tradition in which a "Hundred" referred to a parcel of land capable of supporting 100 families regardless of its acreage.
The first Chardonnay vines were planted in 1985, followed by the release in 1988. Just two years later, the winery earned its first Virginia Governor’s Cup, marking the beginning of a beautiful winemaking journey.
Sip Wines Capturing Virginia’s Character
Awaken your senses with a 🔺 wine selection reflecting the region’s distinctive terroir. The Williamsburg Winery showcases the fruit of the Virginia Peninsula American Viticultural Area (AVA), a designation representing the unique geographic features and subtropical climate, extended growing season, and maritime influences like those found in Bordeaux. The wines also feature grapes from farms and vineyards from around the commonwealth.
There’s a pour to suit every palate with whites, reds, and sparkling wines along with special collections, limited releases, and the Estate and Reserve series. Adding even more depth to the wine experience, the curated Road to Revolution Collection features historic inspiration such as “Jefferson’s Journey” on every bottle. Plus, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with specialty and dessert wines.
Enjoy Immersive Tours & Wine Tastings
Savor distinctive wines and the historic, European-flavored ambience during 🔺 tours and tastings. Whether you're a curious wine lover or a devoted wine enthusiast, each experience provides a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every bottle.
Choose from new experiences like the Barrel Cellar Tour and Tasting, where you’ll go behind the scenes with the winemaking team to compare wines in the barrel to those in the bottle. If you’re a history buff, the Founder’s Tour and Estate Wine Tasting takes you on a journey through the estate’s past and ends with a tasting of Estate wines in the founder’s office.
Elevate your experience with the Extensive Tour and Reserve Wine Tasting, where you’ll pair exclusive Reserve and limited release wines with artisan cheeses after a walk through the vineyards and cellars. Your whole family can join the fun with the Upgraded Highlights Tour and Wine Tasting, which explores the production spaces before ending with a tasting for the adults and non-alcoholic beverages for the younger guests.
Or, enjoy a leisurely tasting at your own pace with an indoor tasting flight in Susan Constant Hall sampling four wines. Choose from white, red, sweet, seasonal, and other rotating selections. Or, seek out the Lafayette Library wine lounge, an intimate nook with comfortable seating where you can sip local wine by the glass or bottle.
Pair Wine with Exceptional Dining
Enjoy a memorable meal onsite at the top-rated 🔺 Gabriel Archer Tavern. Named after Gabriel Archer, one of Jamestown's earliest leaders who envisioned the first English settlement at Archer's Hope, the restaurant blends local history with culinary traditions. Settle into the inviting dining room delighting in entrées like hanger steak or pork chops brined with sweet tea, or dine al fresco beneath the estate's picturesque wisteria-covered patio.
Stay awhile and gather with good company at the Godspeed Galley Bar, named after the ship that carried Gabriel Archer across the Atlantic on a momentous 1607 voyage. Whether you’re sipping wine or sampling light bites, this is a place for soaking up simple pleasures.
Make Memories at Winery Events
The relaxation continues beyond the dining and tasting rooms with events designed to inspire connection and creativity. Try your hand at a cheese making workshop or unleash your inner artist during a paint-and-sip workshop. Join seasonal celebrations throughout the year or attend weekly events like live music in the vineyard every Saturday and trivia on Sunday afternoons. See all of the winery’s upcoming events.
Spend a Long Weekend at Wedmore Place
Extend your escape with a countryside stay at 🔺 Wedmore Place, the onsite boutique hotel inspired by the warmth of a European inn. Rest and recharge in one of the 28 rooms, many of which feature wood-burning fireplaces, soft robes, and king-sized beds, creating a welcome retreat after a day of exploring the grounds. Start your morning with a complimentary breakfast and in the afternoon at the winery, sip on a complimentary wine flight for two.
Continue the Journey Beyond the Winery
When you’re out exploring the Historic Triangle, stop by Williamsburg Winery’s Merchants Square Wine Bar in Colonial Williamsburg for another chance to unwind with a glass of wine or a flight. Climb a winding staircase to reach the cozy second-floor tasting room with warm cherry wood accents and a mix of seating. On the menu: reds, whites, roses, sparkling wines, and ciders.
For even more variety, sample local breweries, distilleries, and cocktail bars around town. Plus, dine at the area’s eclectic restaurants to fully savor all the flavors of Williamsburg.