How to know best wineries in North Carolina?

A vineyard is where the grapes are grown, and a winery is where the wine is produced and it might surprise you there are so many in North Carolina. This state is the place where every major type of grape is grown. It’s also home to America’s first grape, as it was the birthplace of the scuppernong.

Interestingly, before the prohibition, North Carolina was the largest wine producer in the country. Yadkin Valley is the Napa Valley of the East Coast. There are actually five AVAs throughout the Tarheel State. This refers to American Viticultural Areas, where each area has a distinct climate and soil type for growing different grapes.

The grapes here are grown at a wide range of elevations as well, as the landscape ranges from mountainous to coastal. Each NC winery has its own stunning setting, array of varietals, and special Carolina character. Let’s dig into some of the best NC wineries the state has to offer.

Tucked away near the Yadkin River, Raffaldini rests on 102 acres of pastoral paradise and one of those perfect NC wineries. This winery near Wilkesboro, a small mountain town, makes classic Italian dry wines using the Appassimento method.

This is a traditional process of using dehydrated grapes to produce wines. It’s a difficult method but they are truly top-notch at it. Here, you will find that the reds are bold and the whites delicate.

You can go for a guided tour of the vineyard or a tasting. Peruse their gourmet deli counter for the perfect pairings with their Sangiovese Classico or Vermentino.

The Tuscan Villa is transportive, surrounded by Italian herbs and ravishing roses, interspersed with fig and olive trees, all drenched with Carolina sunshine. It’s a favorite in the state, and one of the best North Carolina wineries.

Located in Tryon, Overmountain is family-owned, offering wonderful estate wines from over 70 acres of vineyard. They grow French vinifera, resulting in charismatic Cabernets and Merlots.

Their methods to develop these distinctive, handcrafted styles of wine are innovative, to say the least. Sipping wine on their porch and taking in the sweeping scenery of majestic mountains is a uniquely restorative experience.

Delve into the history of the Overmountain men with a tasting and tour through the lush vineyards. The tasting room is a quaint cottage overlooking the foothills. If you can’t bring yourself to leave this serene setting, we don’t blame you – stay overnight in the luxury villas on site.

Beloved in Lexington, Childress has an award-winning reputation among the North Carolina wineries.

With 30 different varietals, there is something for every preference and pallet. With 15 types of European Vitis vinifera cultivars, the humid climate and red clay soil create their wines’ distinctive and delectable flavor profiles.

There are three different flights to choose from for the tasting, each more enchanting than the next. They have a full-service restaurant in-house, Bistro.

Don’t let the former NASCAR fame of the owner Richard Childress fool you – this is a truly luxe experience. They have many accolades under their belt to prove it.

This iconic Asheville estate boasts an impressive NC winery as well and is one of the best things to do in Asheville. Asheville is all known for its breweries, but you can also have amazing wine here too.

It’s in the heart of Antler Hill Village on the Vanderbilt grounds. They serve an array of reds, whites, and roses, and they offer a behind-the-scenes tour and tasting, as well as a chocolate and red wine tasting that is to die for. The on-site sommelier will take you through the impeccable selection of vintages.

The deftly designed indoor and outdoor space provides gourmet charcuterie to pair with your pick. There’s plenty to discover at the Biltmore including the largest private home in the country, endless nature trails, manicured gardens, shops, and restaurants. The breathtaking beauty of the sprawling setting and ornate home is worth the trip for a day full of classic elegance.

This family-owned vineyard is found in Monroe, North Carolina just southeast of Charlotte. Truly an enchanting experience, it’s named after the few adorable treehouses you will see delightfully scattered about grounds.

The original treehouse is 30 feet in the air and overlooks the verdant vineyard; two others have joined its charming company since. They are rented by the hour, and one is even available overnight.

They make a mean Cab Sav and Merlot, as well as some scrumptious Muscadine wines which are native to the area. Their grounds stretch far and wide with plenty to wander and explore and many a cozy spot to relax with a glass.

They also sell gourmet specialty southern goodies. Where else can you appreciate a nice glass of wine from a tiny home up among the pines?

Nestled in the famed Yadkin Valley in Dobson, this vineyard shares a similar climate to some of the best wine-growing areas in Europe, which makes it one of the best wineries in North Carolina. They grow several varieties of Vitis vinifera grapes including Chardonnay, Malbec, Riesling, and Tannat.

The wines reflect the special terroir of the valley. In the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the views are unbeatable. The grounds are landscaped and the vines pruned. They also feature a sparkling pond and walking trails to explore.

An expansive gravity flow winery, they are one of the largest on the East Coast. They are committed to sustainable farming practices, something you can learn more about by touring their space. The tour and tastings are very informative and educational. A restaurant next door serves up southern comfort cuisine that hits the spot.

This is the first Indigenous-owned winery in the country, by members of the Lumbee tribe. It lies on 36 acres of woodland and pastures in Lexington. Keep your eye out for arrowheads as you explore the ancient native grounds.

They produce natural old-world style wines with various Vitis vinifera and several fruit blends. They offer dry and semi-sweet reds and whites. They have also invented the first Green Tea Wines which are as refreshing and delicious as they are creative. Food trucks and live music are frequent affairs on their expansive grounds.

Both quiet and quaint, this is the perfect low-key spot to enjoy a glass in the scenic sunshine with a real rural feel.

This experimental winery makes their own rules as they create new and exciting offerings. There are tours of the winery as well as u-pick flowers on site. They aim to create minimalistic wines with no additives, no sulfites, and no filtering using the most local, organic, and sustainable ingredients.

This is raw and live wine, which is hard to find anywhere else around. They contain little to no residual sugars and are low-calorie. They make dry fruit wines to be savored in their cozy tasting room or lush outdoor space – feel free to BYOB (bring your own blanket). New on the scene, they have already made quite the splash.

Hidden away in Wagram, this vineyard grows three different types of the classic Muscadine grape. They offer 16 varieties of wine ranging from dry to semi-sweet, all finely balanced. Committed to exploring the possibilities of the Muscadine, this wide selection includes Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon.

They have a tasting room and boutique, both with a warm and comfortable atmosphere. The tasting space features a sweeping veranda for idyllic views of the vineyard. We recommend going for Jazzy Fridays for the full experience. You also get a complimentary wine glass with your tasting for a fun souvenir.

They have been granted many awards for elevating the sweet profile of the muscadine to soaring new levels in the wine world. A relaxed and familiar environment, this is one of the best North Carolina Wineries to visit.

Duplin is the oldest winery in the state, starting in 1975, and drinking wine here is perhaps one of the best things to do in North Carolina.

They can be found in the cute hamlet of Rose Hill, in Eastern North Carolina. Visit their state-of-the-art production facility for a tour of the largest indoor enterprise on the East Coast. You can witness the process firsthand, from start to finish.

They have a range of award-winning sweet wines. During the tasting, you will learn about the 5 Ss of wine – sight, smell, swirl, sip, and savor. Enjoy more than a dozen samples while discovering the nuanced ways of the wine connoisseur.

As soon as you walk in the door, you know this winery specializes in Southern hospitality. Chock full of history and rustic charm, you will fall in love with these sweet wines from coastal Carolina.

The tasting room at Daveste is something special. It’s a vaulted open-beam frame overlooking the natural wonders of a sparkling pond and cascading waterfall. It also features an art gallery with selected works from local artists.

They produce reds and whites including, a Chambourcin and a Viognier. Be sure to try their fan favorite, Portrait wine.

They host many outdoor events throughout the year, such as live music and vendor fairs. All of their wines are created in small batches for a more curated craft feel. The beverages here are available in any form – glass, bottle, or flight. Tucked away in Troutman, bliss and harmony await you at Daveste.

Heading to the Divine Llama Vineyards is one of the best weekend getaways to have in North Carolina as this is one of the most unique wineries in NC. On almost one hundred acres of serene rolling hills in Yadkin Valley, this winery is more than meets the eye.

It’s home to the largest llama farm in the Southeast, making for an incredibly unique vineyard experience. They grow four different varieties of grapes – Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Chardonel, and Traminette, creating 11 types of wines.

Hike two miles along Miller Creek with one of their furry friends, starting and finishing at the tasting room, where a glass will be awaiting your arrival. During the weekends, it’s food truck heaven for all kinds of tasty local fares to try. This East Bend gem is one-of-a-kind.

Family owned and operated, this winery has been a flagship in the North Carolina Highcountry for many years. Nestled in a fertile valley close to the Linville Gorge and Linville Falls, the vines thrive in this lush Appalachian environment.

Their flagship grape is the Reisling, but they’re also growing Seyval Blanc, Noiret, and Petit Verdot, to name a few.

At 3,200 feet in elevation along the Blue Ridge Parkway, they are part of one of the newer AVA’s that has been established. Their sprawling farm also nurtures many kinds of berries, apples, pumpkins, and Christmas trees seasonally. Enjoy the tasting bar or table service in the breathtaking backdrop.

The falls themselves are a short hike or quick drive away, and we highly recommend making the journey as it’s all part of the magic. Their relaxing atmosphere and triumphant tastes create the perfect place to slow down and appreciate what nature can offer.

Acclaimed as one of the best North Carolina wineries, JOLO is known for making revered East Coast wines. They use stainless steel to ferment their whites and roses, and oak for their reds. The estate is a picturesque, pristine scene that focuses on the natural beauty of the site, which features Cox Lake and Pilot Mountain.

There are many nature trails to explore the jaw-dropping landscape of the grounds. The grape varietals for the whites are Traminette and Vidal Blanc. For the reds, there are petit verdot, Cynthiana, and merlot, to name a few.

They are all dry and were selected specifically for the particular climate of the area. The standard flight here is seven wines – a sparkling, a white, a rose, three reds, and a dessert wine. The End Posts restaurant on-site serves up fabulous fares for any meal.

The patios at Burntshirt overlook the vineyards and the Blue Ridge Mountains at the highest altitudes around. This is one of the best wineries in North Carolina to view the sunset, as they seem to be endless from this vantage point. Somehow, the reds taste better with the fiery, glowing sun sinking in front of you. They have their own food truck for pairings as well.

They offer Sweet and Dry Riesling, Malbec, Chardonnay, Gruner Veltliner, and more. There are two fabulous flights available at the tasting room. The vineyard is dog friendly so feel free to arrive with a furbaby in tow. Hunker down here in Hendersonville for a good time or check out their Chimney Rock location for a charming retreat.

Their production facilities feature cutting edge equipment, including a crush pad where freshly picked fruits are de-stemmed and pressed for all the natural juices. Take a tour to learn more about the technical process at Burntshirt.

Located just near the Outer Banks, Sanctuary Vineyards is a quiet and quaint seaside farm and vineyard. 10 acres of grapes are spread across this farmland with varieties of Syrah, Viognier, Norton, Tempranillo, and of course Muscadine.

Grapes are picked by hand every spring. Here you can experience a cruise with wine tasting with friends and family! There’s a wide range of tastings available as well!

You may not think North Carolina has much to offer in terms of wine, but truth be told North Carolina is home to almost 550 vineyards and nearly 200 wineries. With varied grapes, scenic views, and Southern hospitality it’s hard to dislike any of them!

North Carolina ranks 12th out of 50 states for wine production, just after Texas and Virginia. There are three main areas for wine in North Carolina: the mountains, coastal, and the Piedmont area. These North Carolina wineries mentioned in this list are all noted by area.

Let me preface this by saying that site location is a complex topic with myriad factors going in to having the right location for a vineyard, but in a perfect world, we would take all of these elements into account when selecting a site.  Vineyard site selection is probably the most important decision in the life of a vineyard. It takes several years to develop a vineyard and produce a regular crop of grapes.  A vineyard will remain productive for decades.  Although grapevines can grow in many places, successful cultivation for quality wine production is limited to sites where specific conditions are met and rigorous management practices conducted. Some of the primary factors affecting vines are as follows:

This is a lengthy topic and for today’s conversation I am going to address some of the physical aspects that you must evaluate when selecting a vineyard site.  Be warned, that this discussion is going to get a little technical.

Elevation

Elevation influences the minimum and maximum temperatures in a vineyard. Lower elevations are preferable at high latitudes, and higher elevations are more desirable at lower latitudes. On average, the temperature falls 1.1 degrees F per 330 feet (0.61°C/100 m) of elevation, which means the growing season will be shorter increasing the possibility of frost at higher elevations.

Relative Elevation

Poor relative elevation can significantly reduce the quality of an otherwise good site; such is the case with vineyards located within valleys.  Although the vineyard may fall within the acceptable absolute elevation range, because of its location at the lowest point at an otherwise good elevation, it may be prone to spring and fall frosts.  It is better if the vineyard is located at an elevation referred to as the “thermal belt.” The thermal belt is a mountainside zone where frost or freezing temperatures are less likely to occur than they are at either higher or lower elevations.

Latitude

Grapevines are temperate-climate plants; the major viticulture regions of the world are concentrated between the latitudes of 30 and 50 degrees.  In this zone the relatively large diurnal (daytime vs. nighttime) temperature range is optimal to produce the combination of sugar and acid levels that enable grapes to be made into quality wine.

Slope

The slope of a site refers to the degree of inclination of the land expressed as a percentage.  For example, a 5-foot fall over a 100-foot horizontal distance would be a 5 percent slope. The ideal site for grapevines is on gently sloping land that allows cold air to drain into lower areas.  This reduces the risk of frost injury and cold winter temperatures.  Further, good air drainage promotes faster drying canopies, which reduces the frequency of disease.

Aspect

A vineyard’s aspect refers to the direction that the slope faces (e.g., east, southeast, etc.). Aspect affects the angle that the sunlight hits the vineyard and heat balance.  Aspect is more important in higher latitudes where radiation is weaker, due to the angle of the sun, and light interception may be limiting to growth.

Vineyards with southern aspects (for the Northern Hemisphere) warm earlier in the spring and the vines may undergo bud break earlier than vineyards with northern aspects. The early bud break is desirable in locations that do not have a danger of spring frost because it translates into earlier bloom and harvest of the fruit.

Western-facing slopes are a popular choice for late-maturing varieties, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, promoting fruit ripening in the waning heat and daylight of fall.

Eastern-facing aspects receive the first of the morning radiation, warming canopy and soil temperatures fastest when temperatures are generally at their lowest and most limiting.

In cool climates where summers are cool and growing degree-days are low, northern slopes (for the Northern Hemisphere) should be avoided and southern aspects (S, SE, and SW) are preferred to allow maximum heat accumulation on that site to grow and ripen grapes.

Soil

Soil supports vine root structure and influences the amount of minerals and nutrients available to the vine.  The ideal soil condition is a layer of thin topsoil and subsoil that retains water but also has good drainage so that the roots do not become overly saturated.  The ability of the soil to retain heat and/or reflect it back up to the vine is also an important consideration that affects the ripening of the grapes.  Some of the more common soils that we see in Virginia are as follows:

Sedimentary rock based soil that has good water retention ability but poor drainage. The soil is often very cool and high in acidity. The Right Bank of Bordeaux is dominated by clay-based soils.

Composed of 40-60% quartz, 30-40% Orthoclase and various amounts of hornblende, mica, and other minerals. This soil warms quickly and retains heat well. The soil’s high level of acidity works to minimize the acid levels in the grapes.

Warm, soft, fertile soil composed of roughly equal amounts of silt, sand and clay. It is typically too fertile for high quality wines that need to limit yields in order to concentrate flavors.

It’s time to sip on the best at these North Carolina wineries and vineyards! From the mountains to the sandy coast, the Old North State boasts a diverse range of winemakers.

Enjoy European-style reds in the Yadkin Valley or simple Southern muscadine sweets in Eastern North Carolina. No matter which North Carolina winery you visit, you’ll find that each one offers something unique to experience.

This list is based on our personal experiences, categorized geographically, and organized alphabetically. Here’s how we’ve organized this guide:

We are never finished exploring North Carolina and will be updating as we continue to travel our beautiful state, but this list can be a great starting point for your own adventures.

Read More: 100+ Unique Things to Do in North Carolina

Throughout our guide, you’ll see the two terms interchange when sharing official business names. In case you didn’t know, a vineyard is a farm that grows grapes for production. A winery is the production facility that makes the wine.

There are about 200 wineries and 400 vineyards in North Carolina. The state ranks 10th in the US in production. Grapes for wine are grown in three regions—the Mountains of Western North Carolina, the Piedmont typically associated with Central North Carolina, and the Coastal Plain of Eastern North Carolina.

Within those three regions are 6 designated American Viticultural Areas (AVA). Some are shared with neighboring states.

Here’s a breakdown of the 6 AVAs found within North Carolina:

With those quick lessons out of the way, let’s get to our favorite North Carolina wineries and vineyards to visit and sip!

Read More: 80+ of the Best North Carolina Breweries

These amazing wineries and vineyards in North Carolina’s mountains and foothills keep people (including us) coming back for more.

139 Benge Dr, Elkin, NC

Violin maker, dentists, and wine lovers, the owners of Adagio Vineyards wanted to create a wine that was a beautiful as sweet melodies. Located just a little bit outside of downtown Elkin, Adagio Vineyards produces European varietals that are both smooth and elegant.

The property of Adagio features a “baby vineyard” while the rest of the 7 acres are located a mile down the road. The tasting room is family-friendly and they have an excellent outdoor area where you can sip wine beside the fire. Our favorites were their Petit Verdot, Vivace, and Coda.

Adagio is the first of a few North Carolina wineries that are kid-friendly, in case you brought the whole family.

3521 Fallston-Waco Rd, Lawndale, NC

Baker Buffalo Creek is located in the fertile soil of Cleveland County. Its name comes from both the Buffalo Creek that winds its way through the property and the Baker family, who have owned the land for over 100 years.

The vineyard supplies 8 different grape varieties: red muscadine, chardonnay, scuppernong, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc, Riesling, and traminette. They offer their own blends as well, one of which is CD Baker, a bourbon barrel-aged cabernet sauvignon with a hint of bourbon flavor.

Find your favorite flavor by visiting their tasting room, open Thursday to Sunday, or book an appointment.

Read More: Spirit-Filled North Carolina Distilleries, Liquor History, and What to Sip!

1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC

When visiting Biltmore Estate in Asheville, make sure to stop by their winery, included complimentary with your visit. Biltmore started producing wine in the 1970s and now produces about 150,000 cases annually.

They offer a variety of reds, whites, mixed, and sweet wines. Some of their selection includes Chardonnay, Zinfandel, Blanc de Noir, Dry Rose, and more. Biltmore also offers behind-the-scenes winery tours & tastings, as well as a red wine & chocolate tasting.

If you are searching for more things to do in Asheville, check out our articles on hikes and waterfalls nearby, and restaurants, too!

Read More: How to Enjoy Christmas at Biltmore

2695 Sugarloaf Rd, Hendersonville, NC438 Main St, Chimney Rock, NC

Burntshirt Vineyards is a family-owned business with two locations: the flagship vineyard in Hendersonville and a second location in Chimney Rock, near the entrance of Chimney Rock State Park.

The Burntshirt Vineyards winery in Hendersonville opened in 2013, boasting state-of-the-art equipment and offering tours for guests to learn more about the winemaking process.

Wine offerings at Burntshirt Vineyards include Sweet and Dry Riesling, Malbec, Gruner Veltliner, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and their own special blends, and more. Sample delicious wine pairings from the Burntshirt Vineyards food truck open from spring through fall.

They are also dog friendly, so bring your furry friends to enjoy a day out on the property.

The tasting room is open Thursday to Sunday and offers two different flights; a set 7-wine tasting of 1 ounce pours for $10/person and a 5-wine pick-and-choose tasting of 2 ounce pours for $15/person.

Read More: 10 Great Hendersonville Restaurants (+ Where to Eat and Drink!)

1697 South, NC-150, Lexington, NC

One of our personal favorite NC wineries is Curran Alexander Vineyards. Curran Alexander is intimate, a true hidden gem, and the property is filled with history.

Enjoy a tasting and we guarantee that you’ll come home with a bottle of their Cabernet Franc as I did! We look forward to their new tasting room and the renovated historical home!

Read More: 25 Wonderful Wineries Near Asheville (Vineyards Within 2 Hours)

4126 Divine Llama Ln, East Bend, NC

Divine Llama Vineyards is a unique North Carolina vineyard, as its 91 acres are both a vineyard and a llama farm in the heart of the Yadkin Valley.

Divine Llama is nationally recognized for its award-winning wines, scenery, and being the largest llama farm in the Southeast. They currently grow four grape varieties: Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Chardonel, and Traminette, and over 11 different wines.

While visiting this Yadkin County vineyard, try llama trekking! Visitors are given the opportunity to hike through two miles of rolling hills along Miller Creek. These treks begin and end near the wine tasting facility, making it the perfect activity before enjoying a nice glass of wine.

During weekends, food trucks stop by and add to your wine tasting experience.

Divine Llama is a short day trip from Winston-Salem and nearby Hanging Rock State Park. It is definitely worth a visit before heading back to the city!

318 Elkin Creek Mill Rd, Elkin, NC

Sitting on the babbling Elkin Creek, Elkin Creek Vineyard is a North Carolina winery destination. The outdoor vibe is made for relaxing with a glass of their Soft White while the kids play in the creek.

One thing we loved about Elkin Creek Vineyard beyond the ambiance is the wood-fired pizza they served. We tried two different combinations and they were both incredible, crispy, and flavorful!

Established in 2001, Elkin Creek Vineyard was built from an old mill to a thriving viticulture experience. To make it a total adventure check out their cabins and sip wine all weekend!

Wine tastings are available for $10 and includes seven 2 oz pours and a branded wine glass. This may be one of the most generous and inexpensive tastings and really gives guests a chance to try the broad range of wines that Elkin Creek Vineyard offers!

Read More: 20+ Kid-Friendly Waterfalls In NC (Easy Hikes And Swimming Holes!)

225 Vineyard Lane, Banner Elk, NC

Grandfather Mountain Vineyard started in 2003 and officially opened to the public in 2011. Spanning over five acres of grapevines located at a 3,300 feet elevation, this North Carolina vineyard overlooks the profile of Grandfather Mountain.

Some of the grape varieties they grow are Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, St. Croix, Lando Noir, Chambourcin, and Vidal Blanc.

Visit their Banner Elk tasting room from Wednesday to Monday where you can try their wines and bring a picnic for the whole family to enjoy (including your leashed furry friends). Enjoy a local food truck and live music every Sunday during the spring and summer months.

Read More: Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster in Banner Elk (7 Important Tips Before You Go!)

235 Chatham Cottage Ln, State Rd, NC

With 15 acres under the vine, Grassy Creek Vineyard is a kid-friendly and dog-encouraging winery in the Yadkin Valley. The European wines are all processed, aged, and bottled in a renovated 10,000 square ft dairy barn. Preserving the history and beauty of the dairy barn was important for the owners of Grassy Creek and they worked with winery architects to protect it.

The wines at Grassy Creek Vineyard are robust but also pleasing to a variety of palates. Do a wine tasting and learn more about each wine they offer before sipping on a glass.

Grassy Creek Vineyard also has hiking access to Carter Falls. The trail is approximately 4 miles round trip.

And if you are hungry after your hike Grassy Creek Vineyards has a great assortment of charcuterie items for purchase including Ashe County Cheese!

219 Jolo Winery Ln, Pilot Mountain, NC

JOLO Winery & Vineyards has been producing superior wines since 2013 and is one of North Carolina’s most acclaimed vineyards with some of the most highly rated wines on the East Coast. Stainless steel is used to ferment their whites and rosé, while a combination of American, French, and sometimes Hungarian oaks are used for the reds.

The Pilot Fog wine, made of Cynthiana grapes, is barrel-aged exclusively in 100% new American Oak.

Enjoy seven of their award-winning wines: one sparkling, one white, one rose, three reds, and a choice of dessert wine for $15/person or $20/person if you keep their glass.

Want to try their premier wines? Go for their Reserve Tasting at $40/person (includes the glass), and you’ll get a sparkling wine and 6-7 of their finest dry red wines, including their new premier offerings.

Tastings and their restaurant, End Posts, are open Thursday to Sunday by reservation only.

964 Old Railroad Grade Rd, Thurmond, NC

As an Estate Winery, Jones von Drehle makes wines exclusively from grapes that are harvested from their 30 acres of vines. Nestled in the mountains of Wilkes County, the view from the tasting room is absolutely breathtaking and compliments the sips you’ll have.

Enjoy Jones von Drehle Friday-Sunday and feel free to bring your pets! Jones von Drehle is an easy 10 minutes away from Stone Mountain State Park and a perfect addition to your weekend adventure!

At that wonderful state park, we love hikes along the Stone Mountain Loop to Stone Mountain Falls and a drive down the road to Widow’s Creek Falls.

Read More: 25+ Fun Things to Do in Wilkesboro (+ North Wilkesboro and Nearby!)

9557 Linville Falls Hwy, Newland, NC

Linville Falls Winery is family-owned and operated in the High Country. The vineyard and farm is situated on over 40 acres and is filled not only with rows of vines for grape growing but also blackberries, blueberries, and other fruits and vegetables.

Grape varieties include Seyval Blanc, Vidal Blanc, Noiret, Marquette, Petit Verdot, Marechal Foch, and Riesling. The winery is open Thursday-Monday and offers wine flights by-the-glass and by-the-bottle.

Enjoy food trucks that stop by every Saturday and Sunday. Stay awhile at this North Carolina vineyard, enjoying delicious wine and good company. Make sure to visit nearby Linville Falls for a hike before you enjoy a delicious glass of wine.

450 Groce Rd, Ronda, NC

Raffaldini Vineyards and Winery is nestled near the Yadkin River and the Blue Ridge Mountains and produces classical Italian dry wines. They produce reds such as Sangiovese Classico, Montepulciano Riserva, Sagrantino, and Grande Riserva, and whites such as Vermentino and a sparkling Prosecco style called Auguri.

This North Carolina winery uses Appassimento, which is the ancient Italian method of incorporating dehydrated grapes into production. The process is time and labor-intensive, but Raffaldini takes great pride in being the most prominent Appassimento practitioner in the United States.

Visit Raffaldini Wednesday to Monday for a wine tasting starting at $12/person. They have a gourmet deli case of delicious food to pair with your wine, with the occasional visit from food trucks and pizza ovens. Enjoy a guided vineyards tour when they’re open, and plan a trip in September when they host the Annual Festa Italiana.

Make sure you visit nearby Wilkesboro for local arts, music, and world-class mountain biking trails!

Read More: 15+ Great Things to Do in North Wilkesboro (Speedway and More!)

765 Round Peak Church Rd, Mt Airy, NC

Looking for French and Italian varietals? Round Peak Vineyards, name after nearby Pilot Mountain, features 12 acres of vines and produces both dry and sweet wines. They are a kid-friendly North Carolina winery and even have a disc golf course on the property!

Rent one of their two cabins and make an entire weekend out of it. Round Peak Vineyards also works closely with Skull Camp Brewery in Elkin and has their delicious beers on tap.

Read More: 14 Delicious Restaurants in Elkin (+1 Great Cocktail Bar)

588 Chestnut Gap Rd, Hendersonville, NC

Saint Paul Mountain Farms is home to Saint Paul Vineyard in Henderson County. Their tasting room was established in 2008 on land that has been in the family for centuries.

Saint Paul Vineyards specializes in French Vinifera and offers almost 30 wines that are locally grown, processed, and served in their three tasting rooms. Some of the wines include Cabernet Franc, Dry Riesling, Vidal Blanc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and blends of their own, such as their red Jasper wine.

They regularly offer tastings, wine events, live music, classes, and pairing dinners. Guests can visit their Saint Paul location 7 days a week, or visit their Appalachian Ridge Hard Cider location in Flat Rock.

Read More: Colorful Fall Hikes in North Carolina (+ 20 Beautiful Places to Explore!)

Shelton Vineyards is another great Yadkin Valley grower and producer. Several varieties of grapes grown in this Surry County vineyard include Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Malbec, Tannat, Petit Verdot, Reisling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Petit Manseng.

There are a variety of tours and tastings offered, ranging from $12/person to $55/person. You can also enjoy the onsite restaurant, Harvest Grill, to enhance your Shelton Vineyards visit.

Its upscale, bistro-style dining has been awarded the Triple-A three-diamond rating for its food, service, and decor. Make sure to try the sonker while you are there!

Silver Fork Vineyard & Winery spans 32 acres in the mountains of Burke County, with both Silver Creek and White Fork Creek intersecting on the property.

This North Carolina winery offers Chardonnay, Chardonnay Reserve, Rose, Chambourcin, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and two of their own variants: Four Dog Red and Nonsense Red Blend.

The owners have a deep love for their furry family members, and their Four Dog Red is inspired by their family puppies: Lil Bear, Callie, Lily, and Gus. Their Nonsense Red Blend is a new release of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot.

Visit the Tasting Room Friday to Sunday (Winter hours) and enjoy self-guided wine flights for $15 per person with the option to purchase farm-fresh cheeses, meats, and crackers. Take in the breathtaking scenery with friends, family, or your leashed furry friends!

Read More: 25+ Amazing Restaurants in Morganton and Nearby! (Map Included!)

Slightly Askew is located near Downtown Elkin and is in a great spot to cozily drink some NC wine! This winery specializes more on the sweet side by incorporating fruit.

However, don’t assume that only sweet wines are available here. Slightly Askew does offer dry wines that are more of a South American style as opposed to the many Italian wines you’ll find in the Yadkin Valley.

Read More: 25 of the Most Amazing Winter Hikes in North Carolina

These Central North Carolina wineries and vineyards bring together some big names from neighboring industries (NASCAR) and for the first time in this guide, animal friends on one property.

Childress Vineyards is one of the most prominent North Carolina wineries and features over 70 acres of vineyards and over 30 different wines for all palettes. Since its opening in 2004 by Richard Childress of NASCAR fame, this Lexington winery has won many wine competitions with its total medal count exceeding 750.

Wine flight tastings are offered daily from 10 am-4:30 pm with three different flight options to choose from. They range from a regular wine flight to a reservation-only Luxe Wine Flight.

Enjoy their in-house, full-dining restaurant, The Bistro, for one of the best meals in Lexington. Open 7 days a week, The Bistro offers a beautiful view to enjoy during your delicious lunch.

Childress also offers online shopping for any of their wine, wine-related items, and merchandise.

Read More: Lexington NC Map of 20+ Attractions (+ 7 Surrounding Counties!)

Come visit Daveste Vineyards near Lake Norman (and also, Statesville and Mooresville), where you can sip wine and experience outdoor live music events, vendors, and more throughout the year! Their wine comes from fruit grown on their roughly 50 acres of land.

Wines at Daveste are typically developed in very small lots, producing about 25 cases for some estate wines and only 1,500 in a year.

Daveste produces red and white wines, including their award-winning Merlot, Chambourcin, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Viognier, Dry Reisling, and more. When visiting, be sure to try their Portrait wine, which is their award-winning creation of Bordeaux style Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot.

The tasting room is a short day trip from Charlotte and is open from Thursday-Sunday (winter hours). Guests are more than welcome to try their wine or craft beer and can get them by the glass, bottle, or flight.

Read More: 30+ Awesome Things to Do in Statesville

Junius Lindsay Vineyard is the namesake vineyard for the owner’s grandfather, who started Zimmerman Farm in 1896. Zimmerman Farm is now home to the production of the French-style wines at Junius Lindsay.

All grape varietals that are grown at this vineyard originate from the Rhône Valley of Southern France. When visiting, choose from reds, whites, dessert wines, and specialty wines such as rosé and sangria.

Their tasting room is open Friday to Sunday and starts at $10/person. Junius Lindsay is home to the only open-air tasting room in North Carolina and boasts amazing views of the vineyard.

Read More: Lake Norman State Park (8 Great Things to Do!)

Treehouse Vineyards is a family-owned North Carolina winery and vineyard in Union County, southeast of Charlotte. It was established in 2005 and opened to the public in 2010.

The vineyard was named after the treehouses found on the property. The original treehouse is 30 feet off the ground and equipped with a deck that overlooks the vineyard.

They produce Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot Dry White blend, and other award-winning Native Muscadine wines and are open seven days a week for wine tastings. For a unique experience, we recommend renting out the treehouse for overnight visits and enjoying the views of the property!

Read More: 20 Awesome Wineries near Charlotte (Vineyards Within 2 Hours)

Cypress Bend Vineyards in Wagram (Scotland County) has been around since 2005 and spans over 30 acres. They specialize in Muscadine wines and offer 16 different kinds spanning from dry to semi-sweet, and grow three Muscadine varieties–Carlos, Noble, and Magnolia.

Their wine array includes Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. Enjoy and explore the wine flavors of Cypress Bend at their tasting room, open 7 days a week.

Tastings are $6/person and include a Cypress Bend Vineyards logo glass, a tour of the vineyards, and the option to purchase packaged snack items and merchandise. Stop by for their Jazzy Fridays filled with wine, friends, and good music.

Cypress Bend is one of a few great places to go pick muscadine grapes in North Carolina, too! Check out our map of them and more farms if you’d like to plug them into your phone or GPS.

Located in Rose Hill is Duplin Winery, home to a large variety of sweet wines. It has two locations, with the other one being in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

Enjoy wine tastings Monday-Saturday where you sample at least ten preselected award-winning Muscadine wines.

One of the Duplin Winery associates will walk you through the winery’s history while you sip on each of their wines. By the way, Duplin is the oldest winery in North Carolina, established in 1975.

Their $10 deluxe tastings also come with gourmet cheese dip, homemade gourmet crackers, and a glass of wine after the tasting is completed.

While on the property, enjoy lunch from The Bistro from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm on the days that the winery is open. The Bistro offers daily lunch specials and has many offerings, such as gourmet soups and salads, sandwiches, and more.

Read More: Things to do in Duplin County

Located in Jarvisburg (Currituck County), Sanctuary Vineyards is the last but not least of our North Carolina wineries. Using age-old methods to bring out the sweetest flavors from the sandy land, This Outer Banks vineyard grows Syrah, Tempranillo, Viognier, Norton, and Muscadine grapes.

Each bottle from Sanctuary Vineyards is treated with care and attention to honoring the hand-picked grapes. Visit The Winery and Cotton Gin Tasting Room seven days a week from 10 am-6 pm.

Sanctuary sits just off US 158 and isn’t too far from Weeping Radish, North Carolina’s oldest microbrewery!

Read More: 30+ Amazing NC Coastal Towns (+ Things to Do in Each One!)

Sip! Sip! Hooray! These North Carolina wineries and vineyards each offer fun and unique experiences.

Whether you are trekking with llamas, looking out from a treehouse, or simply enjoying estate-grown wines, these awesome places are more proof that we’ve got something special in this state.

Have you ever visited any of these North Carolina wineries and vineyards? We’d love to know which you love and what bottle we should pick up next? In case you haven’t gotten started exploring yet, we’re eager to know what’s first on your list.

Let us know here in the comments and feel free to share your NC wine adventures in our Facebook Group!

One of the most fascinating discoveries I made recently was wines made in the  Southeastern US region, particularly in the Old North State.

If you wish to go in-depth, check out the 16 best wineries in North Carolina. Each winery has something special to offer, so you are in for a surprise!

$ | 828-722-1037 | WEBSITE

If you feel like escaping the hustle and bustle of the city, the Mountain Brook Vineyards offers that respite. Located about an hour and thirty minutes from Charlotte, this beautiful estate is the place to be.

One of the best ways to enjoy the wines produced by this vineyard is to drink outdoors. Imagine sipping a glass of wine while admiring the picturesque views of the place.

Apart from their wine tasting sessions, the winery also hosts interesting and fun events. Check out their website for the upcoming ones!

$$ | 800-774-9634 | WEBSITE

Have you ever been to a place that produces wine? Well, if you want to know how wines are made, you must visit the Duplin Winery.

This winery allows visitors a glimpse of how their wines are produced. If you want more, they have wine tastings too. You can try at least ten wines from their roster.

There’s also a restaurant at the Duplin Winery. They have lunch specials from Monday through Saturday. Your meal will taste even better when you pair it with their wines!

$$ | 704-981-2490 | WEBSITE

If you’re from the Charlotte area, it only takes half an hour to reach the Veronét Vineyards & Winery. The family that owns and runs the winery is committed to sustainable practices. It’s reflected in the way they plant the grapes and produce the wines.

Visiting Veronét Vineyards & Winery is the perfect option if you are figuring out what to do for the weekend! Once you are there, you will see just how gorgeous the whole estate is. Don’t forget to head to the indoor bar to try various wines.

$$ | 704-981-2490 | WEBSITE

There’s so much history behind the property where the Grassy Creek Vineyard & Winery is. And there’s no better way to know that than by dropping by and exploring it.

You can do so many things at the Grassy Creek Vineyard & Winery. There’s a Tasting Room where you can indulge in their wines and a trail you can hike on.

Contact the winery to reserve their pavilion if you have an upcoming event. And call ahead if you are dropping by anytime soon!

$$ | 704-982-9463 | WEBSITE

Make your day special by making a trip to the Uwharrie Vineyards & Winery. This place serves as the ideal background if you want some peace for the day or precious bonding moments with your loved ones. You can even bring your beloved pet to the property!

Enjoy the scenic Uwharrie Vineyards & Winery grounds and savor some of its wines. And if you are looking for a small and lovely venue for a wedding, then this is the spot!

$$ | 828-391-8783 | WEBSITE

Take time out of your busy schedule to see what the Silver Fork Winery has in store. Since the day it opened its doors a decade ago, Silver Fork Winery has been all about producing high-quality wines. They have a wonderful selection of wines that you will surely appreciate.

Silver Fork Winery has a delightful tasting room featuring its best wines. You can also opt to enjoy your beverage outdoors! And since this place has plenty of space, you can book it for some of the most exciting events of your life!

$$ | 336-468-9463 | WEBSITE

The Myer family running this vineyard and winery has been taking care of the land for generations. The land in the Yadkin Valley has been under their helm since the 18th century. But it wasn’t until about 20 years when the family ventured into winemaking.

Since setting up this endeavor, the Laurel Gray Vineyards has been producing award-winning wines. You can try some of these at their tasting room. You also have the chance to learn more about this vineyard via a tour hosted by the owners.

$$ | 336-644-9908 | WEBSITE

In rural North Carolina, you will find one of the finest wineries in the state. It goes by the name of Stonefield Cellars Winery. During the Spring and Fall seasons, you will have the opportunity to discover more about wines and wine-making.

Book a wine tasting flight session, if you aren’t ready to commit to a wine-making class yet. Choose seven varieties of wines to try for only $14.50.

$$ | 828-898-9090 | WEBSITE

Imagine waking up to a lush vineyard and an immaculate mountain view. Well, you can get that and more at the Banner Elk Winery & Villa.

Over the years, the winery has produced various wines, some winning awards in and out of North Carolina. Book a tasting or a flight as soon as possible if you want a taste of these wines.

If you want to go the extra mile, they have a luxurious villa nearby that you can stay in!

$$ | 336-835-9463 | WEBSITE

If you are a fan of classic, dry wines, you will love the Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery! The Raffaldini family worked hard to understand the land where their vineyard is, so they would be able to maximize its use. It resulted in producing various dry Italian wines that many people now enjoy.

Before going to the Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery, let them know you are visiting them. Check out their website to learn more about this!

$$ | 828-894-0154 | WEBSITE

Are you looking for a place to relax and free your mind from worries? Come and drop by the Parker-Binns Vineyard. One look at this place, and you will find some peace.

Your experience will even get better because of the wines they have! Drink a glass or two while enjoying a burger or sandwich from The Burger Barn. If you took a liking to their wines, sign up for the Parker-Binns Vineyard Wine Club for more perks!

$$ | 336-701-5235 | WEBSITE

The Weathervane Winery has a humble beginning. Over the years, you can see just how much the business has expanded.

One of their best offers is their wine tasting. The winery’s staff is there to welcome those who want to experience the taste of their dry and sweet wines. This wine tasting here would only cost you about $12.00.  Give them a call today and book your spot now!

$ | 336-571-1024 | WEBSITE

The Piccione hold their Italian heritage close to their hearts. And there’s no better way to honor their Sicilian roots than producing the most exceptional wines in the state. Their wines have won awards and accolades in various competitions.

Take time to enjoy the wine flights from the Piccione Vineyard. There’s no rush or pressure. It’s just you, a glass of wine, and the marvellous views.

$$ | 336-366-4724 | WEBSITE

Shelton Vineyards opened about 22 years ago. This is, by far, the largest family-owned estate winery in the state. Given how huge the place is, you won’t run out of things to do.

And since you are at a winery, you can’t miss out on the wines. There are educational tours of the winery daily. As part of that tour, you can catch sight of the wine-making process. And, of course, try out at least five of their estate wines!

$$ | 704-283-4208 | WEBSITE

Before doing anything at Treehouse Vineyards, the owners, Dianne and Phil, prepared the soil and everything else they would need. As soon as everything settled, they planted the first vines in 2005. Their patience paid off, and they started official operations in 2010.

At this winery, you can choose between viniferous and muscadine wines. If you can’t decide which one to get, set up a wine tasting with them! Once you have tried the different variants, it will be easier to figure out which ones you like most!

One of the things I learned recently was winemaking was already a thing in North Carolina back in the 18th century.

Some people even claim it started way before that! With this newfound knowledge, it makes even more sense to dive into the 15 best wineries in North Carolina!

[Updated April 13, 2023]

With a wealth of Asheville breweries earning the mountain town the nickname “beer city,” plus a wealth of breweries in Boone and Brevard, Western North Carolina is known for some of the nation’s best microbrewing.

But NC wineries have also been gaining an increasingly high-profile national reputation. Farmers in the area have gradually realized that old tobacco fields, which have been largely drained of nutrients, make great North Carolina vineyards.

It should come as little surprise, because North Carolina is the native home to two of the nation’s favorite wild grapes, muscadine and scuppernongs.

But NC wine has expanded far beyond muscadine wine, which has the reputation of being very sweet. And many winemakers are trying to change that stereotype as well.

Due to the variety of climates in the state, North Carolina wineries are growing all kinds of grapes now.

In addition to Niagara grapes (the only native grape used widely in commercial wine production), vineyards in NC are now planting cabernet, merlot, chardonnay, sangiovese, and more.

This just adds to a rich history of grapes and North Carolina wines: The “Mother Vine” on NC’s Roanoke Island is estimated to be at least 300 years old.

Duplin Winery is the oldest and largest winery in NC and, in fact, the entire East Coast. And the Biltmore Estates Winery is the nation’s most-visited winery.

Read on for our guide to the best North Carolina wineries (specifically those west of I-77), for those visiting the Blue Ridge Mountains and/or cruising the Blue Ridge Parkway.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Wineries in the North Georgia Mountains

(Arranged Geographically: Wineries in Asheville, Banner Elk, Elkin, Hendersonville, Maggie Valley, Mount Airy)

READ MORE: The 15 Best Fairs in North Carolina to Visit

4005 New Leicester Hwy, Leicester NC • (828) 581-9463

Official Website

A fourth-generation family farm, the Addison Farms Vineyard switched to focusing on grapes in 2009. They now grow several varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, Montepulciano, and more.

Addison Farms is a 55-acre plot located in Leicester NC, about 17 miles northwest of Asheville NC. They currently have over six acres of grapes planted, with plans to ultimately expand it 10 acres.

The vineyard has several local partners— Two Moons Vineyard, Moon Lake Vineyard, and Spring Branch Vineyard. Collectively they produce about 800 cases of small-batch North Carolina wine per year.

The Addison Farms Winery offers tours and a tasting room, but they do require advance reservations. Addison Farms wines are available for purchase online as well.

READ MORE: The 30 Best Things to Do in Asheville NC

One Lodge Street, Asheville NC • (800) 411-3812

Official Website

Established in 1985 on the historic Biltmore Estate in Asheville NC, the Biltmore Winery is a well-established NC winery with all the right financing to put out high-quality vino.

The first vines on the Biltmore Estate were planted by William Cecil in the early 1970s, and the Biltmore vineyard has grown to around 150 acres since then.

The Biltmore Winery bottled its first wines— Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot— in 1984, and opened to the public the following year. By 2001, the North Carolina winery was selling over a million bottles annually.

The vineyard/winery currently produces 150,000 cases a year, and is available in 40 different states.

For WNC visitors, the Biltmore Winery has two different tours/tastings: “Red Wine & Chocolate Tasting” and “Behind-the-Scenes Winery Tour & Tasting”. Both require advance reservations.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Downtown Asheville Restaurants for Foodies

9557 Linville Falls Hwy, Linville Falls NC • (828) 765-1400

Official Website

A family-owned and operated North Carolina winery, the Linville Falls Winery is run by Jack Wiseman, with his grandchildren currently learning the craft.

Located north of the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area, the 40-acre vineyard grows 7 varieties of grapes, as well as berries, apples, pumpkins, corn, and NC Christmas trees.

The flagship grape for the Linville Falls Winery is Riesling, and the berries and apples grown on site are also put into wines.

This vineyard near Asheville NC hosts two annual Fall Festivals– the Grape Stomp in September and Harvest Hoedown in October. Both have live music and plenty of wine to drink.

This Western NC winery is open 7 days a week and offers wine by the bottle, glass, and flight. Reservations are not necessary or available, and food trucks and live music are regular parts of the experience.

READ MORE: Visiting Linville Falls Campgrounds, RV Park & Cabins in Linville Falls NC

289 Lyman Street, Asheville NC • (828) 774-5062

Official Website

A true Asheville winery that’s located in the heart of town, plēb puts a funky, fresh spin on what a winery does and looks like (including an aversion to capital letters).

The wines are available at both plēb urban winery and the aventine wine bar, which also features vintages from other local wineries.

These North Carolina wines are grown in the surrounding Appalachian Mountains. They come on tap by the glass or growler, with some sold by the bottle and can.

The urban winery’s ethos reflects the new movement into producing sustainably, revitalizing community, and opening up the wine experience to everyone.

One-hour tours of the wine-making facility on Lyman Street are available by reservation (at least 24 hours in advance), and include a wine tasting at the end.

READ MORE: Asheville River Arts District: A Guide to Galleries & Restaurants

655 Hoopers Creek Road, Fletcher NC • (828) 483-6070

Official Website

While the Souther Williams Vineyard may be relatively new on the Asheville wine scene, the land it is on has been settled and farmed for several centuries.

The 35-acre vineyard is set up on the original homestead, which dates back to before the Civil War.

This wine region, known as “the Crest of the Blue Ridge,” is a named American Viticulture Area. It’s just 20 minutes away from both Hendersonville and Asheville.

Visitors have lots of options for enjoying the wine here. There’s the standard vineyard flight, as well as a hosted flight, the Hike & Sip Tasting Tour, and Owner’s Tasting.

Many of the wines come from Eastern European varietals such as Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, Blaufränkisch, and Regent. There are some American hybrid vines, too.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Hotels in Asheville NC to Visit

60 Deer Run Lane, Banner Elk NC • (828) 260-1790

Official Website

An award-winning Blue Ridge Mountains winery, the Banner Elk Winery & Villa started in 2005 as the first commercial winery in the NC High Country.

In addition to being a fine winery, the Banner Elk Winery & Villa has its own vineyard, as well as an 8-room villa for rent.

The estate offers magnificent views of Pisgah National Forest, the Tennessee Valley, and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

This winery is co-owned by Dr. Richard Wolfe, a former enological researcher (wine scientist) at Appalachian State University. He considers the western NC region as equal to the famed wine regions of Europe.

The beautiful lodge-style tasting room at the Banner Elk Winery is open Tuesday through Sunday. It features tastings of six wines for under $10, with extra wines available for an additional charge.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Banner Elk NC

225 Vineyard Lane, Banner Elk NC • (828) 963-2400

Official Website

Claiming to be the NC High Country’s first wine-producing vineyard, Grandfather Vineyard & Winery has several varieties of grapes growing on a roughly 5-acre property.

Grandfather Vineyard is unique in that it’s located at an elevation of 3,300 feet on a steep (58-degree) slope.

This setting and the cool climate give their NC wine a distinctive flavor.

Beyond the standard reds and whites, Grandfather Winery also has sweet wines and sparkling wines, as well as wine on tap, mulled wine, and cranberry sangria.

This is the nearest location for those seeking a winery near Boone or Blowing Rock. It’s part of the Boone Wine Trail, which also features the Banner Elk Winery and Linville Falls Winery.

READ MORE: The 10 Best Restaurants in Banner Elk NC for Foodies

487 Legion Road, Lenoir NC • (828) 726-3185

Official Website

Climbing down from the mountains a bit, the Twisted Vine Winery was created in by home winemakers-turned-public producers, who planted their first grapevines back in 2011.

Twisted Vine offers up some rather traditional flavors, both in terms of commercial wine and in terms of the south. These include berry wines, muscadine wine, and apple wine.

This winery has been steadily expanding since those first vines went in. It now has 150 vines growing, a barn/winery, and a tasting room.

Twisted Vine participates in lots of local festivals and farmers’ markets, and there are regular events on the property. It’s located about half an hour from downtown Blowing Rock.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Blowing Rock NC

318 Elkin Creek Mill Road, Elkin NC • (336) 526-5119

Official Website

Elkin Creek Vineyard is the local favorite for Elkin-based wine enthusiasts.

It offers a beautiful setting, with a century-old grist mill (circa 1896) and the rolling hills of the NC Piedmont.

After being established by Mark Greene in 2001, this winery was purchased a decade later by two couples who met in Las Vegas (while working for the Blue Man Group!).

The Elkin Creek Vineyard has been developed to be a comfortable place for relaxing and appreciating tasty wine, quality food, and good company.

The Kitchen at Elk Creek is mostly used for events, but the small restaurant also serves brick-oven pizzas and salads on Sundays for those with reservations.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Elkin NC (Blue Ridge Parkway MM 229)

493 Brewer Mill Road, Traphill NC • (336) 957-2332

Official Website

Located just a few miles outside of Elkin NC, Roaring River Vineyard is right on the banks of the river, with a comfy tasting room perched right above it.

This tasting room (which is also Chez Josephine, one of the area’s best restaurants) has small plates and full meals, as well as local microbrews on tap, with indoor and outdoor seating.

Roaring River also has riverside lodging, from rooms and suites to cabin rentals. Amenities here include fishing, a river beach, and lawn games such as bocce ball, horseshoes, corn hole, and croquet.

The RRV wines include about 10 different choices, with standards like Cab Sav and Chardonnay, as well as NC specialties like Traminette and Norton.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Treehouse Rentals in the North Carolina Mountains

286 Cabernet Lane, Dobson NC • (336) 366-4724

Official Website

The OG of the wineries in Elkin NC, Shelton Vineyards is located a few miles north on I-77, on the outskirts of the town of Dobson.

Shelton Vineyard was founded in 1999 by two brothers, Charlie and Ed Shelton, in an effort to make something productive out of old tobacco farming land.

With the success of Shelton Vineyards putting this region on the North Carolina wineries map, Surry County has become a stronghold in North Carolina wine country, reimagining the lands northeast of Winston-Salem NC.

Shelton Vineyards is now often ranked among the best vineyards in North Carolina. They offer tours, tastings, a top-quality restaurant, and private event spaces.

READ MORE: 7 Covered Bridges in North Carolina You Can Visit in 1 Day

2695 Sugarloaf Rd, Hendersonville NC • (828) 685-2402

Official Website

Hendersonville Vineyards are amongst the best wineries in NC.

Burntshirt Vineyards, which has numerous award-winning wines, is arguably the most recognizable of the bunch.

Burntshirt’s 10,440-square-foot winemaking facility opened in 2013, and it’s fed by two vineyards located just minutes away from it. Among its special features is a large barrel room constructed to mimic the caves of European chateaus.

This is one of the few North Carolina wineries with lodging, with a Vintner’s Cottage and Maxwell House available for rent.

Tastings and tours are available here daily, and local food trucks set up on the weekends from April to November. Private tours for groups of six or more can be arranged as well.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Hendersonville NC

623 Deep Gap Road, Flat Rock NC • (828) 424-7131

Official Website

A true labor of love, Marked Tree Vineyard prides itself on hand-tending to its plants and designing the site to make the most of the local climate.

The vineyard is located in the tiny village of Flat Rock, which is about 4 miles south of downtown Hendersonville.

Marked Tree strives to make wines showing off the quality of the grapes selected and grown to suit the site, including Cab Franc, Petit Verdot, Chardonel, Vidal Blanc, and more.

The vineyard’s tasting room is open every day, and there’s also an Asheville tasting room that’s open daily. Special dinners and tastings are offered periodically as well.

READ MORE: The Top 25 Blue Ridge Mountain Towns in GA & NC

731 Phillips Dairy Road, Tyron NC • (828) 722-1037

Official Website

Led by Dave Coventry, an experienced winemaker from Monterrey CA, Mountain Brook Vineyards has a team of seasoned pros that make this a popular NC winery.

The first grapes were planted at Mountain Brook in 2002, and the winery was established 10 years later.  In 2018, current owners Vicky and Jonathan Redgrave acquired it all, and the game changed to modernization and expansion.

Mountain Brook and its underling, the Red Bell Run Vineyard, have around 50 total acres of vines planted.

Combined, the two wineries cover the gamut of reds and whites most US wine drinkers are familiar with, including chardonnay, pinot grigio, cabernet sauvignon, sauvignon blanc, etc.

Mountain Brook has an indoor tasting room with wine flights, as well as plenty of outdoor seating and locally produced nibbles to accompany an afternoon of sipping and relaxing in front of a stellar view.

READ MORE: 10 Great Train Rides in North Carolina

408 Appleola Rd, Hendersonville NC • (828) 808-8923

Official Website

Hendersonville vineyards like Point Lookout Vineyards strive to make the most of their southeastern slopes, with great morning sun that warms those cool mountain breezes.

This winery is located on Point Lookout, a perfectly picturesque peak in the North Carolina mountains.

In conjunction with it, the World’s Edge Meadery produces a full selection of fine meads.

The tasting room at Point Lookout (which is less than 10 miles from downtown Hendersonville) is open every afternoon and evening, with lots of award-winning wines and meads to choose from.

Their gorgeously appointed facilities can also be rented for weddings and other private events.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Hendersonville NC Restaurants for Foodies

588 Chestnut Gap Road, Hendersonville NC • (828) 685-4002

Official Website

Established in 2008 on the Ward family farm, Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards was the first vineyard and winery in Hendersonville.

This vineyard is part of the Crest of the Blue Ridge American Viticulture Area, and produces both wines and ciders.

Saint Paul produces 30 locally-grown wines, including crowd-pleasers like chardonnay, merlot, petit Verdot, and cabernet.

They also play around with blackberries for wine, and they have a sanctuary for specialty apple trees that can’t be found elsewhere in the US.

Both the winery and the cidery (Appalachian Ridge Artisan Hard Cider) have tasting rooms for guests to come and sample the goods. Live music is a regular feature on the weekend.

READ MORE: The 12 Best Brevard Breweries and Cideries to Visit

736 Green Mountain Road, Hendersonville NC • (828) 551-5643

Official Website

One of the newer wineries in Hendersonville NC, Stone Ashe Vineyard is designed to look like those in France.

The brand is the brainchild of Craig and Tina Little, who took on grape growing and winemaking after finishing their respective careers.

The vineyard’s name is in recognition of the “stony ashe” soil on the farm. That fertile soil combines with a micro-climate that’s perfect for growing complex fruit for great wines.

Stone Ashe Vineyard has a small selection of wines, and a luxuriously rustic tasting room for sampling them.

The stellar view overlooks the Blue Ridge Mountain range for the perfect setting to chill with a glass.

READ MORE: The 50 Best North Carolina Waterfalls to Visit

2427 Soco Road, Maggie Valley NC • (828) 550-3610

Official Website

There are several vineyards and wineries near Bryson City, but only one of them is actually located in North Carolina: The B & C Winery in Maggie Valley NC.

This is also one of the few wineries near Waynesville NC.

B & C makes wines with grapes from vineyards around the world– including California, Australia, Italy, and South America– using fresh mountain spring water as their secret ingredient.

Consequently, this winery is currently putting out over 40 different varieties. This includes standards like merlot and cab, as well as lots mixed with other fruits, such as strawberries, black raspberries, and passionfruit.

Private wine tastings are available here for groups of 12 or more with advance reservations. Daily wine tastings are available on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, and make for a fun day trip from Waynesville.

READ MORE: The 25 Best Western NC Small Towns To Visit (and Live In!)

308 North Main Street, Mount Airy NC • (336) 789-9463

Official Website

With wines produced on Main Street in Mount Airy, the Old North State Winery has a simple, but strong selection of wines to try and an amazing restaurant in which to taste them.

The winery was founded by Ben Webb in 2002. After finishing college, where he studied both viticulture and enology, he planted a 10-acre vineyard on the family farm.

A little later, he added another 18 acres in the Yadkin Valley.

Old North State Wines include Riesling, petit manseng, cabernet franc, Chambourcin, and muscadines, a native North Carolina “wild” grape.

Ben decided to open his winery in a former hardware store (built in 1890) in Historic Downtown Mount Airy to help the local economy. He also brought in a fine chef to handle the food, making this one of the best places in Mt Airy to visit.

READ MORE: The 10 Best North Carolina Mountain Resorts to Visit

765 Round Peak Church Road, Mount Airy NC • (336) 352-5595

Official Website

Located a few miles west of Mount Airy NC, Round Peak Winery has 12 acres of vines planted (mostly French and Italian varietals). It’s a long-standing vineyard in the ever-expanding collection of Yadkin Valley wineries.

Round Peak Winery was started in 1998, and then passed on to new owners Ken Gulaian and Kari Heerdt 10 years later. They kept some existing grapes and introduced some new grapes as well.

All grape wines at Round Peak are estate-grown and hand-picked, and there’s a selection of both dry and sweet wines, including some 100% cherry wines.

In addition to the winery, Round Peak is also associated with Skull Camp Brewery and produces a line of easy-drinking canned wines under the Skull Camp name.  –by Jonathon Engels, featured image 0f Souther Williams Vineyard by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett