Business Details
Washington DC's First Urban Winery & Event Destination
District Winery stands as Washington, DC's first operational commercial winery, blending traditional winemaking techniques with modern innovation. Founded by co-founders Brian Leventhal and John Stires, our journey began with a passion for crafting exceptional wines and fostering community through shared experiences. Our winemaker, Conor McCormack, sources premium grapes from boutique vineyards across the United States, creating a diverse portfolio of wines that reflect regional terroirs. Located in the vibrant Navy Yard along the Anacostia River, we offer immersive wine tours, guided tastings, and curated food pairings led by Executive Chef Nicholas Fulginiti. Our commitment to quality extends to every aspect of our operations, from vine to glass, ensuring each visitor enjoys a seamless blend of education, ambiance, and hospitality.As a full-service venue, we specialize in hosting weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings, combining exquisite cuisine with breathtaking waterfront views. Our teams expertise, rooted in years of winemaking and culinary experience, ensures every event and tasting experience meets the highest standards of excellence. We pride ourselves on creating spaces where guests can connect, celebrate, and discover the artistry behind winemaking in a setting that embodies both sophistication and approachability.
Services
Wine Tours
Tastings
Weddings
Private Dining
Corporate Events
Wine Classes
Food Pairings
Team Building Activities
Highlights and features
- We offer immersive wine tours led by expert winemakers.
- Our waterfront venue hosts weddings and events up to 800 guests.
- Executive Chef-curated menus highlight seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
- We source premium grapes from boutique vineyards nationwide.
- Our team has over a decade of urban winemaking experience.
What people say
Breathtaking river views
Knowledgeable staff
Exquisite cuisine
Memorable weddings
Unique wine selection
Services
Wine Tours
Explore the winemaking process through behind-the-scenes tours of our production facility. Guests taste signature vintages while learning about our sourcing partnerships with boutique vineyards nationwide. The experience includes a curated tasting of five wines, highlighting regional flavor profiles and our urban winemaking techniques.
Private Dining
Host intimate gatherings in our Portrait Room with capacity for 40 guests. Enjoy waterfront views and customizable menus from our executive chef, featuring seasonal ingredients. Packages include family-style or plated service with optional wine pairings and team-building activities like wine games.
Wedding Services
Create unforgettable wedding experiences with full-service packages for up to 200 guests. Our venue includes floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor rooftop access, and dramatic architectural features. Services cover decor coordination, vendor partnerships, and customized food and wine selections for ceremonies and receptions.
Corporate Events
Host professional events for small meetings to large mixers accommodating up to 800 guests. Our turnkey solutions include space setup, premium AV equipment, and tailored catering menus. Team-building options like wine pairings and trivia games enhance networking opportunities in a sophisticated setting.
Wine Tastings
Participate in guided tastings exploring our small-batch wine portfolio. Educational sessions cover flavor profiles, pairing techniques, and winemaking history. Options include self-guided flights, themed tastings, and interactive classes designed for both novice and experienced wine enthusiasts.
People
Brian Leventhal
Co-Founder
Co-founded District Winery after establishing Brooklyn Winery. Brings entrepreneurial vision and passion for urban winemaking to Washington, DC's first commercial winery.
John Stires
Co-Founder
Co-founder with extensive experience in winemaking and business development. Instrumental in expanding the winery concept from New York to Washington, DC's Navy Yard.
Conor McCormack
Winemaker
Award-winning winemaker overseeing production of our small-batch wines. Builds relationships with boutique vineyards nationwide to source premium grapes for our diverse portfolio.
Nicholas Fulginiti
Executive Chef
Executive Chef crafting seasonal menus that highlight local ingredients. Develops wine pairings and private event cuisine that complements our winemaking philosophy.
Questions
Can I host a wedding ceremony and reception at District Winery?
Yes, we accommodate weddings up to 200 guests with full-service packages including ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception spaces.
Do you offer wine tastings for individuals?
Yes, we provide guided tastings, self-guided flights, and themed wine experiences for individual guests and small groups.
What private dining options are available?
Our Portrait Room hosts up to 40 guests with customizable menus, wine pairings, and team-building activities in a waterfront setting.
Are corporate event packages customizable?
Yes, we offer tailored solutions for business events from small meetings to large mixers, including AV support and team-building options.
How do I book a winery tour?
Tours can be booked online up to one month in advance, with options for public and private group experiences.
Is outside food or beverage allowed at events?
No, we provide all food and beverages through our in-house culinary team and wine production facility.