Venue Spotlight: Upper Shirley Vineyards | Charles City, VA

We are thrilled to spotlight one of our favorite Virginia venues today! Located a mere 21 miles southeast of Richmond, VA, the natural landscape surrounding Upper Shirley Vineyards makes it seem like you are worlds away from the hustle and bustle. The vineyards parallel the peaceful James River and provide stunning views of the Presquile National Wildlife Refuge, a 1,329-acre island bird sanctuary.

The beauty doesn’t stop there. Proprietors Suzy and Tayloe Dameron created an environment that perfectly marries modern luxes with the historic integrity of the property. The 14,000 square foot winery is as beautiful as it is state-of-the-art. The on-site restaurant, led by Chef Carlisle Bannister, produces cuisine that is delicious as it is intentional. His reliance on local culinary partners and a commitment to seasonal ingredients provide the bedrock for Southern-inspired food that that is fresh and innovative.

A wine-lover’s dream, Upper Shirley Vineyards is the perfect event space for upscale weddings and special events. The property boasts multiple areas for entertaining including a waterfront lawn, tasting and banquet rooms, stone patios, charming verandas and even a bridal suite and groom’s den.

The overall aesthetic features a tasteful design that is minimalist and chic. The exposed beams, white walls, hardwood floors and back accents feels modern and timeless all at once. It’s a design scheme that would cause even Joanna Gaines to swoon.

“I couldn’t wait until this beautiful new venue opened! Since first hearing about the venture in Spring 2014, I had followed the progress closely and was thrilled to finally visit in 2016. I immediately bonded with the owner, Tayloe (a fellow Gen X’er who also left the Corporate world to pursue his dreams), as he treated me to a tasting of their award-winning wines. Between the views of the James River from their covered porch, the culinary creations of Carlisle Bannister and their Zachariah red blend, Upper Shirley is one of my favorite places to spend an afternoon. We are so looking forward to celebrating with our clients at this venue. Several of our bands will be performing there soon for private events, including Mr. Potato Head, Silver Bullets and Party of Four,” raved ECE Richmond agent, Stacy Schnetzka.

We couldn’t be more excited to take you on a tour of this charming venue. Many thanks to the photographers who contributed to today’s post: Kate Ignatowski, Kim Stockwell Photography and Gordon Valentine Photography.