Prince Michel Vineyard and Winery July 5, 2021
If wineries can be judged like other real estate – by location, location, location - then Prince Michel may be the best situated winery in the State. It is directly on State Route 29 South in Leon, Madison County, at the top of a hill to catch the breezes and turn the wind-wine sculptures in front of the tasting room. Prince Michel has been in operation since 1982 and claims to be the oldest continuous operating Virginia winery, a claim that Barboursville, Chateau Morrisette, and a few others would dispute. (Prince Michele is under new ownership since 2005 when Kristen Holzman acquired the property from Jean and Silvian LeDucq.) But there is no denying it is easy to get go. Just turn right into their driveway from Route 29. Period. The view from the winery is of Route 29, which is not great. The vineyard stretches out behind a spacious winery building. Since our last visit, Prince Michel has added a brewery – Tap 29 – and also serves cider. They sponsor a cash tr