Kicking Off Winery Season with Thatch Winery

A recent overcast May Saturday took me on relaxing drive from Richmond to Charlottesville. The interstate broke off into winding roads set among green hills. Those nooks and crannies guided me down a dirt road to a familiar place. That place is Thatch Winery, formerly known as First Colony Winery. I’ve visited First Colony in the past, twice actually. One of the things I loved most about it included the building and its overall layout, which has been updated since my last visit.

When you enter in the front, you’ll step into the expansive tasting room. It has two tasting bars, which helps when things get busy and you want some personal attention during your tasting. Cozy couches are ready for chilling. French doors lead to a big deck set among trees. My favorite thing to do is sit out there after I’ve chosen my favorite wine and purchased a glass or bottle to enjoy.

A bonus includes the open loft upstairs, which has more seating, a fireplace, another bar, and windows to see the expansive property. There was some fun happening on the wall-mounted scrabble board. More couches and tables are set up to relax with your friends. Even on the busy day we attended, my friend and I easily found a spot to relax and catch up.

Thatch Winery is also located near other wineries if you’re planning a day of winery hopping, a Virginia favorite. It shares the same dirt road entrance as Michael Shaps Wine Works. Just six miles down the road is Blemheim Vineyards, Dave Matthews’ winery and one of my favorites in the area. About 20 minutes west is Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards, another personal favorite. Speckled in between are possibly a dozen other wineries and breweries to stop and enjoy. During my last trip, we had a driver for the day from Central Virginia Wine Tours to keep things safe.

Our favorite wine of the day was the Totier Creek White, which I brought home. It is not too sweet, bubbly and easy to drink. We also really enjoyed the full bodied Meritage, which is a blend of four grapes.

Thank you for having me Thatch Winery crew! I can’t wait to come back with more friends and family this summer.