James River Cellars started as a hobby and grew out of control! While on the hunt for the perfect Virginia Gewürztraminer, Ray Lazarchic decided that it may be easier to just make his own! He planted the vineyard on 20 acres of his farm in Montpelier, VA. The winery was open to the public in 2001 and is now owned and operated by Ray's daughter, Mitzi, and her husband, James. Ray now spends more time enjoying James River Cellars' wine and messing around in the flower beds. With Mitzi's PhD in biochemistry, and James' degree in finance... it was only fitting for Mitzi to run the business while James makes the wine! The goal of James River Cellars is to create a Virginia winery experience that is a refreshing change from the ordinary. A blend of urban convenience and quaint rural appeal, James River Cellars is a perfect location to stop by and enjoy a picnic on our beautifully landscaped patio or capture the view from our terrace. Conveniently accessible to major highways, it is the perfect stop on your way to or from the city.