Exploring North Carolina’s vineyards is a delightful journey through scenic landscapes and rich flavors. This region offers visitors a chance to enjoy wine tastings, beautiful views, and unique experiences. From the mountains to the coast, North Carolina boasts some of the best vineyards in the country.
For those seeking a memorable getaway, the state’s vineyards provide the perfect escape. Not only are they great for wine lovers, but they also offer other attractions such as lodging and restaurants. These vineyards represent the finest that North Carolina has to offer and are ideal destinations for both locals and tourists.
1) Biltmore Estate Winery
Located in Asheville, North Carolina, Biltmore Estate Winery is nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. It sits on George Vanderbilt’s massive 8,000-acre estate. Visitors can explore its rich history and enjoy lush, scenic views.
The winery offers complimentary wine tastings in their Tasting Room. Guests can sample a distinctive portfolio of award-winning reds, whites, and rosés.
Knowledgeable wine hosts guide guests through their selections, ensuring a memorable experience. The indoor/outdoor Wine Bar provides a perfect spot to enjoy charcuterie and locally-made truffles.
The vineyard grows and tests various grape varietals. Four have proven well-suited to the region: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Merlot. These wines showcase the unique terroir of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Biltmore Estate Winery remains a top destination, known as the nation’s most-visited winery. It combines history, elegance, and excellent wine, making it a must-visit spot in North Carolina.
For more information, visit their website.
2) Shelton Vineyards
Located in North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley, Shelton Vineyards is a standout destination. Founded in 1999 by Charlie and Ed Shelton, it is the largest family-owned estate winery in the state.
The vineyard is known for its beautiful landscape, featuring a stunning pond and plenty of space to relax. Visitors can enjoy a glass of wine, a bottle, or even a wine flight on the scenic terrace.
Shelton Vineyards offers a variety of wines including red, white, and dry options. Their award-winning wines have made them a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
Another unique feature is the ability to bring your furry friend along. Pet toys, water bowls, leashes, and dog beds are available for purchase to make pets feel comfortable.
For those wanting to stay longer, the vineyard offers accommodations like the Farm House at Shelton Vineyards. This adds a special touch to the experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves fully in the serene environment.
Located just off I-77, Shelton Vineyards is easily accessible and a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. For more information, you can visit their official website.
3) Childress Vineyards
Childress Vineyards, located in Lexington, North Carolina, is a must-visit destination in the Yadkin Valley.
This vineyard is known for its stunning views and award-winning wines. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings and learn about the winemaking process.
The vineyard’s tasting room offers a wide variety of wines, from red to white and even dessert wines.
In addition to tastings, Childress Vineyards hosts events and live music. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
For those interested in more than just wine, the vineyard also features delicious dining options at The Bistro.
Childress Vineyards stands out as a top choice for wine lovers traveling to North Carolina. To learn more, visit Childress Vineyards.
4) Duplin Winery
Located in Rose Hill, Duplin Winery is a gem in North Carolina. Known for its rustic charm and southern hospitality, this family-operated business has been a part of the community for three generations.
Visitors can enjoy award-winning muscadine wines and take part in a winery tour. The staff shares amusing and entertaining family stories, making the experience memorable.
The winery also offers a Deluxe Wine Tasting that includes 10 different wines, plus Duplin’s famous cheese dip and house-made crackers. This tasting event is a must for any wine lover.
Duplin Winery produces an impressive 8,000 bottles of wine per hour at full capacity. Their popular brand can be found in grocery stores and wine shops across the nation.
Booking a tour is easy, and it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes. After the tour, visitors can relax and savor the flavors in the winery’s retail room.
For more information, you can visit their website or check out reviews on Tripadvisor. Duplin Winery is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and provides a delightful getaway from the everyday hustle.
5) Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery
Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery brings a touch of Italy to North Carolina. They are known for their Italian-style dry white and red Appassimento wines. Situated in the charming Swan Creek region of the Yadkin Valley, it offers picturesque views reminiscent of the Lombardy province.
Visitors can enjoy wine tastings while soaking in the stunning landscape. The family chose this location because the conditions are similar to their homeland in Italy. Raffaldini is a place where tradition meets elegance.
The vineyard also hosts the Festa Italiana every September, celebrating Italian culture with food, music, and, of course, wine. It’s a delightful event that provides a cultural experience alongside the fantastic wines they produce.
To learn more, visit their official website. The winery is a must-see destination for anyone touring North Carolina, especially for those fond of both Italian wines and scenic beauty.
6) Silver Fork Winery
Silver Fork Winery, located in Morganton, North Carolina, is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts. Nestled in the foothills of the South Mountains, this winery offers a picturesque setting that enhances the wine-tasting experience.
One of the highlights of Silver Fork Winery is its award-winning wines. They produce a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, each crafted with care and precision.
The tasting room at Silver Fork is a blend of elegant design and cozy atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the vineyard and mountains while sampling wines. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the moment.
Silver Fork Winery also hosts events and live music, adding to the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. On any given weekend, you might catch a local band or singer performing, making your visit even more enjoyable.
For those interested in food, Silver Fork offers farm-fresh options that pair wonderfully with their wines. Whether you are a local or a traveler, a visit to Silver Fork Winery promises a memorable and relaxing experience.
Learn more about what makes this winery special by visiting their official website.
7) Burntshirt Vineyards
Burntshirt Vineyards, located in Hendersonville, North Carolina, is known for its award-winning wines. The vineyard boasts two locations: the main winery and vineyard in Hendersonville, and a tasting room and bistro in Chimney Rock.
Visitors can enjoy guided tastings of their 100% estate-grown wines. The vineyards span 9 acres at Burntshirt Mountain and 30 acres at the Hendersonville Tasting Room. These are some of the highest elevation vineyards on the East Coast.
The winery offers a daily tour where guests can learn about the winemaking process. There’s also an on-site restaurant, the Vintner’s Table, where visitors can dine and take in the scenic views.
The tasting rooms have indoor and outdoor seating, providing a cozy atmosphere to enjoy the wines. With a wide selection to choose from, wine enthusiasts are sure to find something they love. Don’t forget to take home a bottle to share with friends and family.
For more information, visit Burntshirt Vineyards on Tripadvisor or check out their official website.
8) Elkin Creek Vineyard
Elkin Creek Vineyard is nestled in the beautiful Yadkin Valley near Elkin, North Carolina. This charming vineyard sits alongside a serene creek and waterfall, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing day out with family.
The vineyard is known for its handcrafted wines and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors often praise the friendly staff and gorgeous scenery. It’s an excellent place to enjoy a picnic by the water or a leisurely wine tasting.
On Sundays, the vineyard offers delicious wood-fired pizzas. It’s a popular choice, so reservations are recommended. The pizzas are made with fresh, local ingredients that pair perfectly with their wine selections.
Elkin Creek Vineyard also features a cozy cabin rental for those who wish to extend their stay. The cabin provides a unique experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in vineyard life. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find this option particularly appealing.
For those interested in weddings, Elkin Creek Vineyard offers a picturesque setting for ceremonies and receptions. The natural surroundings create a stunning backdrop for memorable photos. The event planning team at the vineyard ensures that every detail is perfect for the big day.
Elkin Creek Vineyard is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring North Carolina’s wine country. Its mix of excellent wines, beautiful scenery, and welcoming environment make it stand out among the region’s best vineyards. For more details, check out Elkin Creek Vineyard.
9) Jones von Drehle Vineyards & Winery
Jones von Drehle Vineyards & Winery is nestled in Thurmond, North Carolina. This family-owned estate covers 65 acres. Visitors enjoy beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Chuck and Diana Jones, along with Ronnie and Raymond von Drehle, started the winery in 2007. They turned an old pasture into a vineyard. Their mission was to create fine wines from local grapes.
The tasting room and patio provide a cozy spot to sample wines. Guests can relax and take in the scenic surroundings. The winery produces classic dry wines, all made from grapes grown on-site.
The Stage at Jones von Drehle offers outdoor concerts. It’s a popular spot for local music lovers. In addition to great wines, visitors get to enjoy live entertainment.
Open year-round, the winery welcomes guests for tastings and tours. Whether you’re a wine expert or a curious newbie, Jones von Drehle provides an enjoyable experience for all.
Check out more on Tripadvisor or Yelp.
10) Linville Falls Winery
Linville Falls Winery is located in Newland, North Carolina. This winery is part of the Appalachian High Country viticulture area. The region is known for its higher elevation vineyards, creating ideal conditions for grape growing.
The winery’s vineyard spans 40 acres and features a wide variety of grapes. You can find grapes like Rielsing, Seyval Blanc, Noiret, Marquette, Petit Verdot, and Foch.
Besides grapes, the farm also grows blueberries and blackberries. Visitors can enjoy a scenic tour of the vineyard and sample some of their mountain-grown wines.
The winery operates from April to October with hours from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM on weekdays and until 11:00 PM on Saturdays. You can learn more about them on their website.
For anyone visiting North Carolina’s wine country, a stop at Linville Falls Winery offers a blend of beautiful views and tasty wines. The cool mountain evenings and warm days contribute to the delicious flavors of their wines.
History of Winemaking in North Carolina
Winemaking in North Carolina has a rich past, starting from the early introduction of grapevines to significant developments in the modern era.
Early Beginnings
Grapevine cultivation in North Carolina began soon after Sir Walter Raleigh’s expeditions. By the early 20th century, North Carolina was a major wine-producing region in the USA, even boasting the title of the leading wine producer during that time.
After Prohibition ended, the wine industry in the state faced challenges. In 1950, a group of Onslow County farmers made a significant step by planting 25 acres of scuppernongs, marking the state’s first post-Prohibition winery. This was an important moment as the state began to rebuild its reputation for wine.
People turned to producing moonshine during Prohibition, impacting traditional winemaking. Yet, the hardy nature of North Carolina’s grape varieties helped in rebooting the industry. This history paints an interesting picture of resilience and innovation.
Modern Developments
Today, North Carolina’s wine industry is thriving with 186 wineries and an annual economic impact of $1.97 billion. The landscape has shifted significantly from its past, with wineries such as Duplin leading the way. Duplin, founded in the early 1970s, sells 450,000 cases per year, primarily from Muscadine grapes.
Regions like the Yadkin Valley have gained recognition with wineries praised for their high-quality fruit. Innovators in the field experiment with different grape varieties to improve quality and adapt to changing weather conditions.
The recent renovation of vineyard attractions, like the Olde Farmhouse at Carolina Heritage Vineyard, reflects the modern era’s blend of tradition and contemporary charm, enticing visitors and boosting the local economy.
Climate and Soil Conditions
North Carolina’s climate and soil vary widely, affecting grape growth and wine quality. Each region has unique features, from the coastal areas to the mountains, that influence the flavors and types of wines produced.
Optimal Growing Regions
North Carolina has three main wine-growing regions: the coastal plains, Piedmont, and mountain areas.
Coastal plains have sandy soil and a humid climate. The soil drains well, which helps prevent root diseases. However, the area is prone to tropical storms and hurricanes. This region is suitable for growing Muscadine grapes, known for their high resistance to pests and diseases.
Piedmont, situated in the center of the state, is the most diverse region. The soil here is a mix of clay and loam, which retains moisture but drains well. The climate is temperate, with hot summers and cool winters, ideal for a wide range of grapes like Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Mountain regions feature rocky and well-drained soil. The cooler climate here makes it perfect for growing vinifera grapes, like Pinot Noir and Riesling. Elevation also plays a role, with higher elevations offering a longer growing season and more sunlight.
Impact on Grape Varieties
Each region’s unique conditions impact the types of grapes that can be grown.
In the coastal plains, Muscadine and Scuppernong grapes thrive due to their ability to handle heat and humidity. These grapes produce sweet and fruity wines popular in the region.
The Piedmont region supports a broader range of grape varieties. Vintners here grow both vinifera and hybrid grapes. The varied soil and climate allow for balanced wines with complex flavors. Common varieties include Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot.
In the mountain areas, the cooler climate supports vinifera grapes better than other regions. High-quality Pinot Noir and Riesling are common. The rocky soil and cooler temperatures create wines with more acidity and structure, appealing to those who prefer crisp and balanced wines.
Understanding these regions helps wine lovers appreciate the diverse offerings of North Carolina’s vineyards, each with its unique taste influenced by its growing conditions.
Wine Varieties in North Carolina
North Carolina boasts a diverse range of grape varieties and wine styles, offering something for every palate. From well-known grapes to unique local wines, the state’s vineyards reflect its rich wine-growing heritage.
Popular Grape Varieties
Many North Carolina vineyards grow Vitis vinifera, which are traditional European grape varieties. Notable examples include Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. These grapes thrive in the state’s varied climate, from the cooler mountains to the warmer coastal areas.
Another important grape is the Scuppernong, which is a type of Muscadine. Known for its large size and thick skin, the Scuppernong produces sweet and aromatic wines that are distinctive to the region. Vidal Blanc and Traminette are also popular, often used for both dry and sweet wines.
Unique Local Wines
North Carolina is known for some unique wines that you won’t find everywhere else. Tryon Wines, made from a historical grape variety, are significant in the state’s winemaking history. These wines offer a blend of tradition and modern techniques.
Sweet Muscadine wines are a local favorite, often enjoyed both as table wines and dessert wines. Additionally, wineries in the Yadkin Valley produce innovative blends, sometimes mixing traditional grapes with local varieties for a unique tasting experience.
Exploring these wines gives visitors a sense of the region’s unique winemaking culture and the creative spirit of North Carolina’s winemakers.
