Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery has expanded its visitor experience with the debut of its new Barrel Cave Tasting Room in Leon, Virginia. Officially unveiled during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 16, 2026, the reimagined space welcomes guests into the winery’s barrel cellar. There, visitors can enjoy Virginia wine tastings in a unique setting. The new tasting room blends the character of a working winery with a warm, inviting atmosphere. It reinforces Prince Michel Winery’s commitment to Virginia wine tourism through immersive tastings, private events and educational opportunities.
All About Prince Michel Winery
The Barrel Cave Tasting Room is just one part of the experience at Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery. Visitors can explore the winery through guided tours and attend seasonal events. They can also browse a boutique gift shop filled with locally inspired gifts and wine accessories. Guests who wish to spend more time in Virginia wine country can book one of four well-appointed on-site suites, offering a relaxing overnight escape. The winery also offers an intimate wedding package. It provides a picturesque setting for couples seeking a memorable Virginia vineyard wedding.
Set on 70 scenic acres, Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery is home to its production facility, the new Barrel Cave Tasting Room and Tap 29 Brewery & Pub. Together, these attractions give visitors multiple ways to experience the property. The brewery complements the winery with a selection of craft beers, regular live music performances and a full-service menu. Designed as a welcoming gathering place, Tap 29 emphasizes hospitality, community and a relaxed atmosphere where guests can unwind with family and friends. Open seven days a week, it offers a destination for everything from casual lunches to leisurely afternoons in Virginia wine country.
Prince Michel Wines
Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery continues to earn recognition for its portfolio of Virginia wines, adding to an impressive list of industry accolades. Its Bordeaux-inspired Constellata Red Blend recently captured both Gold and Best of Class honors at the East Meets West Wine Competition and the Eastern International Wine Competition. The winery also celebrated success at the 2026 Virginia Governor’s Cup, where its 2024 Petit Manseng earned a Gold medal. The award built on the Gold received by its port-style Tres Bien at the 2025 Virginia Governor’s Cup.
For owner Kristen Easter and winemaker Bryan Jones (seen together above right), wine is ultimately about personal enjoyment. Easter’s guiding philosophy is simple: “the best wine is the wine that tastes best to YOU.” Jones shares that approach, focusing on creating an approachable and welcoming visit for every guest. “I like to try to dispel the mystery and make people comfortable with wine,” he told us. That commitment to hospitality remains at the heart of the Prince Michel Winery experience. The team strives to make every visitor feel valued while celebrating the loyal wine club members who have supported the winery over the years.
Jones joined Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery in 2024 after relocating from Kentucky. He brought a unique perspective shaped by creativity, craftsmanship and technical expertise. A certified sommelier, Jones appreciates both the artistic and scientific sides of winemaking. His objective is to expand the winery’s portfolio while continuing to elevate the quality and character of its wines.
The History of Prince Michel Winery
Founded in 1982 by French entrepreneurs Jean and Sylviane DeLuc, Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery has built a legacy rooted in craftsmanship, innovation and hospitality. Current owner Kristen Easter acquired the winery in 2005. Over the past two decades, she has continued to strengthen its reputation for quality.
Easter is deeply involved in the winery’s day-to-day operations. She follows industry developments at wine events and expos and visits wineries during her travels to discover new trends and ideas. Her attention to detail extends throughout the property, including personally selecting the merchandise featured in the Prince Michel gift shop.
In recent years, the winery has welcomed new leadership. CEO Reo Hatfield joined the team in 2023, followed by winemaker Bryan Jones in 2024.
The debut of the Barrel Cave Tasting Room represents a fresh milestone in the ongoing story of Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery. The new space offers visitors an elevated way to experience the winery. It also reflects the values that have guided the property since its founding: quality, connection and Virginia wine hospitality.
Prince Michel Winery has continued to evolve under Easter’s leadership. At the same time, it has preserved the craftsmanship and welcoming spirit that have defined the winery for more than 40 years. Prince Michel Winery invites visitors to explore its acclaimed wines, expanded guest offerings and new Barrel Cave Tasting Room. Together, they showcase both the winery’s rich history and its exciting future in Virginia wine country. ~
R. L. JOHNSON is Wine & Country Life’s co-publisher and creative director, Robin Johnson Bethke. She began her career as a professional photographer in Los Angeles before relocating to Charlottesville in 1994, where she transitioned into graphic design and art direction. As the company’s co-founder and visionary, she enjoys every aspect of the publishing process. Her work spans story conception, graphic design and photography.
you might like
