North Carolina’s wine scene is growing fast. The state has many wineries and vineyards for you to visit. You can find places to taste wine all over North Carolina.
Wine tours are a fun way to see these spots. You can enjoy tastings and tours at wineries across the state. Some tours take you to several places in one day. Others let you stay at a winery overnight. There’s a wine tour for everyone in North Carolina.
1) Biltmore Estate Wine Tour
You can explore the Biltmore Winery as part of your visit to the grand Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. The winery is located in Antler Hill Village on the estate grounds.
Your tour begins with a complimentary wine tasting at the Tasting Room. Here, you can sample a variety of Biltmore’s handcrafted wines, including reds, whites, and rosés.
For a more in-depth experience, consider the Behind-the-Scenes Winery Tour. This tour gives you a closer look at the fermentation process and North Carolina grape varieties. You’ll also enjoy a private tasting of Biltmore’s Reserve and Premium wines.
After your tasting, you can relax at the Wine Bar. Here, you’ll find a selection of charcuterie and locally-made truffles to pair with your favorite Biltmore wine.
Don’t forget to visit the winery’s shop. You can purchase bottles of your preferred wines to take home as souvenirs of your Biltmore experience.
2) Shelton Vineyards Tour
Shelton Vineyards offers a unique wine tour experience in North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley. You can visit this large family-owned estate winery any day of the week.
The vineyard provides guided tours of their impressive 33,000 square foot facility. You’ll get an in-depth look at their winemaking process and history.
Tours run multiple times daily, typically at 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. On Sundays, a tour is available at 3:00 p.m.
Your visit includes a tasting of Shelton’s reserve wines. This lets you sample some of their finest offerings.
The winery’s tasting room is open for longer hours. You can drop in Monday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. On Sundays, it’s open from noon to 5:00 p.m.
After your tour, browse the gift shop for wine and accessories. You can also enjoy a meal at the on-site Harvest Grill restaurant.
3) Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery Experience
Nestled in the foothills of North Carolina, Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery offers a taste of Tuscany in the heart of the Yadkin Valley. You’ll be transported to Italy as you explore the stunning grounds.
The vineyard’s Tuscan-style villa houses original Italian artwork. As you stroll the landscaped property, you’ll encounter olive trees, roses, and lavender bushes.
Your visit can include a private vineyard tour and wine tasting. You’ll sample 8 wines from Raffaldini’s collection, expertly paired with a curated charcuterie board and lunch.
Raffaldini specializes in Italian-style dry white and red Appassimento wines. You can relax and take in the panoramic views while enjoying your chosen flight or bottle.
For a more intimate experience, you can book a seated table tasting. This allows you to savor the wines at your own pace while soaking in the beautiful surroundings.
Please note that Raffaldini maintains an adults-only policy most days to ensure a relaxing atmosphere. They do offer special family-friendly days with activities for children.
4) Childress Vineyards Tour
You can experience a taste of NASCAR and fine wine at Childress Vineyards in Lexington, North Carolina. This winery, founded by racing legend Richard Childress, offers tours that blend racing history with winemaking.
Your visit starts in the tasting room, where you can sample a variety of wines. The Signature Tasting lets you try five wines of your choice.
Next, you’ll explore the vineyards, which span over 70 acres. Your guide will explain the grape-growing process and the 15 different varieties cultivated here.
The tour continues in the production area. You’ll see how grapes are transformed into wine and learn about the aging process in oak barrels.
For a special experience, book the Vineyard Experience: Barrel Cave Tasting & Harvest Tour. This exclusive tour includes tasting elite wines in the Barrel Cave or Barrel Room.
Don’t forget to visit the Bistro for lunch after your tour. You can enjoy local cuisine paired with Childress wines while overlooking the vineyards.
5) Duplin Winery Tasting Tour
Want to try some of North Carolina’s finest muscadine wines? Head to Duplin Winery in Rose Hill for a fun and informative tasting tour.
You can book a $13 tour at the winery’s retail room. Tours run Monday through Friday, so plan your visit accordingly.
After the tour, treat yourself to a Deluxe Wine Tasting. You’ll get to sample 10 different white, red, and blush wines. The tasting also includes Duplin’s famous cheese dip and house-made crackers.
During your visit, you’ll learn about the winery’s family history. The staff shares entertaining stories that add to the experience.
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes for the tour. You’ll be on your feet as you explore the winery.
As a bonus, you get to take a bottle of wine home with you. It’s a great souvenir to remember your visit.
If you’re in Myrtle Beach, you can also visit Duplin’s location there. They offer a unique Bottle Your Own Wine Experience that you might enjoy.
Exploring the Wine Regions
North Carolina’s wine regions offer unique tasting experiences. You’ll find diverse landscapes and grape varieties across the state’s main wine areas.
Yadkin Valley
The Yadkin Valley is North Carolina’s first federally recognized American Viticultural Area (AVA). This region boasts over 45 wineries and vineyards.
You’ll find it nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The area’s climate and soil are perfect for growing European-style vinifera grapes.
Popular varieties here include Chardonnay, Viognier, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Many wineries offer guided tours and tastings with stunning mountain views.
Don’t miss the chance to visit Jones von Drehle Vineyards & Winery. This 65-acre estate provides beautiful Blue Ridge Mountain vistas.
Haw River Valley
The Haw River Valley AVA is a newer wine region in North Carolina. It’s located in the central part of the state.
This area is known for its unique microclimate. The Haw River helps moderate temperatures, creating ideal grape-growing conditions.
You’ll find a mix of traditional and hybrid grape varieties here. Wineries often produce Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.
Many vineyards in this region offer intimate tasting experiences. You can often meet the winemakers and learn about their crafting process.
Tryon Foothills
The Tryon Foothills region is gaining recognition for its high-quality wines. It’s located in the western part of North Carolina.
This area’s climate is similar to some famous European wine regions. You’ll find many Italian and French grape varieties thriving here.
Mountain Brook Vineyards is a must-visit in this region. It offers breathtaking views and excellent wine-tasting experiences.
The Tryon Foothills are also home to some of the state’s oldest grapevines. You can explore the area’s rich winemaking history while enjoying current vintages.
Understanding North Carolina’s Wine Varieties
North Carolina’s wine scene offers unique varieties that reflect the state’s diverse growing regions. Two standout grapes have made their mark on the local wine industry.
Chambourcin
Chambourcin is a French-American hybrid grape that thrives in North Carolina’s climate. You’ll find it produces deep red wines with a rich color and complex flavor profile.
These wines often have notes of black cherry, plum, and spice. Many North Carolina wineries grow Chambourcin due to its disease resistance and ability to withstand cold winters.
When you taste a Chambourcin wine, expect medium to full body with moderate tannins. It pairs well with grilled meats and hearty pasta dishes.
Muscadine
Muscadine grapes have a long history in North Carolina. Both red and white Muscadine wines are available across the state.
These wines have a distinct sweetness and intense fruity flavors. Common tasting notes include grape, banana, and bruised apple.
Muscadine wines are often enjoyed chilled and make excellent dessert wines. You might find them at vineyards near the coast, where the climate is ideal for growing these grapes.
Many wineries offer Muscadine tastings, allowing you to experience this unique regional variety firsthand.
