Sunday, May 25, 2025

Williamsburg Winery recognized for great stewardship

Williamsburg Winery representatives received the John Smith Award from county Economic Developers and the Board of Supervisors. (Courtesy James City County)
From left to right, James City County Administrator Bryan Hill, Supervisor John McGlennon, Williamsburg Winery Marketing Director Michael Kimball, Winery President and CEO Patrick Duffeler, Jr., and Supervisors Michael Hipple, Ruth Larson and Sue Sadler at the Celebration of Business. (Courtesy James City County)

The Williamsburg Winery has something to toast to. The winery was recognized by James City County staff and officials for their contributions to the community.

James City County Economic Development Authority and Board of Supervisors awarded the Williamsburg Winery the Captain John Smith Award, according to a county press release.

The award was presented at the 24th annual Celebration of Business Nov. 2, and is given each year to a business, individual or organization for “exemplary contributions” to the county, stated the release.

“They have been a great steward in the community and have continued to invest in their business facilities,” County Economic Development Director Amy Jordan said about the Williamsburg Winery. “It’s a great asset to the county. And who doesn’t like a good glass of wine?”

The Williamsburg Winery hosts charity events for nonprofits, including Dream Catchers of Williamsburg and Meals on Wheels, and is a partner with the community according to a nominee profile prepared for the award.

The winery also uses environmentally-sustainable practices and is a Virginia Green Winery that recycles and reduces waste, minimizes the use of disposable products and herbicides, and is water and energy efficient, according to the profile.

The 40-acre Williamsburg Winery is one of the largest wine producers in the Commonwealth, and according to the release produces more than 65,000 cases of wine each year.

The winery was founded in 1985, and in addition to the vineyards features two restaurants, a hotel and event spaces for weddings and special events.

“The Williamsburg Winery does not fit into a singular industry sector,” said Thomas Tingle, Chairman of the Economic Development Authority. “Their business is part agriculture, part manufacturing, part distribution and part hospitality. We are pleased that on the eve of their 30th anniversary of production that they are the recipient of this award.”

The award was presented in Jamestown Settlement’s Rotunda and Great Hall.

Related Articles

MORE FROM AUTHOR