FAQ

FAQS

Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery

Have a wine or vineyard-related question? Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery has the answer. Check out these FAQs and give us a call today for more information!

  • Can I bring my own food?

    At Prince Michel Winery and Tap 29 Brewery, we strive to provide a welcoming and safe environment for all our guests to enjoy. To ensure the health and safety of everyone, the following policies regarding outside food and beverages are in effect:


    General Policy on Outside Food


    1. No Outside Food or Beverages in the Facility:

    To comply with health and safety standards and to ensure a safe environment for all guests, outside food and beverages are generally prohibited inside our building.


    2. Special Occasions – Store-Bought Desserts:

    For special occasions (e.g., birthdays, anniversaries), prepackaged or store-bought desserts may be brought into the facility with prior approval. Proof of packaging and labeling may be required to confirm ingredients for allergy safety.


    3. Private Events – Catering:

    For private events hosted at Prince Michel Winery or Tap 29 Brewery, outside catering may be permitted with prior arrangements and explicit approval by the General Manager. Caterers must comply with Virginia Department of Health guidelines and provide proof of licensing and insurance.


    4. Picnic Policy for Outdoor Areas:

    Guests may bring packed picnics to enjoy in our designated picnic areas located on either end of the building.

    o Picnic Area Restrictions: Food brought for picnics must remain within the specified outdoor picnic areas.


    Safety and Allergy Considerations

    We are committed to creating a safe environment for all of our guests, including those with food allergies. Allowing only certain pre-approved outside foods ensures we minimize risks related to cross-contamination and unidentified allergens. By restricting homemade foods, we reduce the potential for unknown allergens entering our facility, thereby safeguarding the health and enjoyment of our customers.


    Compliance with Virginia Law and Health Department Regulations

    As a food-serving establishment, we adhere to the following legal and regulatory requirements:

    1. Virginia Department of Health Regulations (§ 12VAC5-421):

    o The Virginia Food Regulations require that all food offered for public consumption must be sourced from an approved and inspected facility. This rule applies to all food and beverages served within the premises to ensure safety and prevent foodborne illnesses.

    o Homemade food is not allowed in a public facility where it may be served to others unless it is inspected and approved by the Virginia Department of Health.


    2. Code of Virginia Title 35.1 (Hotels, Restaurants, Summer Camps):

    o Restaurants and similar establishments must follow stringent food safety guidelines, including ensuring that food served to the public comes from licensed providers to avoid contamination and liability issues.


    Contact and Approval Requests

    For approval of special occasion desserts or to arrange catering for private events, please contact General Manager, Mike Haney at mhaney@princemichel.com or by calling 1-800-800-WINE. 


    By adhering to this policy, we ensure a consistent, safe, and enjoyable experience for all guests at Prince Michel Winery and Tap 29 Brewery. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding!



  • Can I Bring my own beverages?

    For compliance with Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority (ABC) regulations, outside alcohol is strictlyprohibited on the premises, including both indoor and outdoor areas.  This restriction applies to all guests.  Please note that guests are NOT permitted to bring bottles of wine they they previously purchased from Prince Michel back onto the property for consumption at a later date.  However, we offer a variety of beverages for sale, including wine, beer, cider, bottled water, juice, and sodas. Parents can certainly bring in drinks for their little ones.

  • Can I Bring My Pet to the Winery?

    When it comes to bringing your furry friends, we have some specific guidelines for dogs. They must always be leashed with a non-retractable leash, and, unfortunately, they cannot access the tasting room, the far pub room, or any area with untiled flooring. For more information, you can find detailed guidelines in our Children and Pets Policy below. Cats, birds, iguanas, chickens, ferrets, gerbils, snakes, and other exotic pets are prohibited.

  • Can I Bring In a Cooler?

    Please note that coolers are not allowed unless you receive prior approval from our General Manager.

  • Can I Bring a Tent, Furniture, or Picnic Blanket?

    Unfortunately, due to space and safety considerations, we can't allow tents brought in by customers. We have ample outdoor seating, including gazebos, shaded areas around trees and tables with umbrellas, available on a first-come, first-served basis. You're welcome to bring fold-up or sports-style seating on Saturdays and Sundays, and picnic blankets are always encouraged for a relaxed experience.

  • Are Large Groups Allowed at the Winery?

    For groups of 10 or more, we recommend making a group reservation or considering one of our event rental packages. You can reach out to Mike Haney, our Wine Shop Manager, for assistance.  

    mhaney@princemichel.com

  • Do You Offer Tours?

    Absolutely! You're welcome to embark on self-guided tours along our catwalk anytime during our operational hours. Additionally, we offer private tastings and tours. For more information, check out the details on our tours and tastings page.

  • Do You Have Food for Sale?

    For those looking to savor the delights of our Tap 29 Pub, you're in for a treat. It's open daily from noon until one hour before closing. Be sure to explore our menu for a taste of classic American pub grub that you'll love.

  • Can I Set Up a Food-Only Table?

    Due to space limitations, we ask that patrons do not use tables as a "food-only" table. Any and all of your food must fit at the table you are occupying.

Children and Pets Policy

We love that you recognize we are a family/pet-friendly establishment and welcome you, your children, and your pets! We have worked hard to create a positive, peaceful setting for all our guests. However, for the safety of your children, pets, other guests, and our staff we ask that you follow the guidelines listed below.


Children Under 12 Expectations


  1. Children must be under the immediate supervision of an adult over the age of 18. 
  2. No running inside or climbing on both inside and outside structures.
  3. Voices must remain at an acceptable level.
  4. Please clean up after your children.
  5. Damages are the responsibility of the supervising adult.


These policies are for the safety and enjoyment of all our patrons. Please remember that we are an agritourism establishment with inherent risks associated with our specific type of property. Visitors understand and accept these inherent risks.


Prince Michel Pet Policy


  1. All dogs must be on a non-retractable leash and under adult supervision at all times.
  2. Dogs need to be well-behaved and quiet. The safety and well-being of all animals are the responsibility of their individual owner(s). By entering our premises, pet owners agree to be 100% responsible for any damage or harm to people, property, or other animals caused by their pets.
  3. Dog owners must clean up after their pets. Doggie waste bags are located outside.
  4. Under the guidance of the health department and food service regulations, Dogs are not allowed in the winery tasting room or the far pub area. (FYI, any untiled flooring)


Of course, certified service animals are always an exception.

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