Best wineries in North Carolina: North Carolina Wineries & Vineyards

Wines made by the Biltmore Estate Winery include Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and effervescent beverages. The winery also produces a range of specialty wines, such as sparkling Blanc de Blancs and bold red blends.

In addition to wine, the Biltmore Estate Winery offers a selection of wine-related products including wine accessories, glassware, and gourmet food items.

The estate itself is a popular tourist destination and features a variety of attractions including gardens, a historic village, and a luxurious hotel.

The Biltmore Estate Winery is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience the beauty and history of this iconic American mansion.

2. Shelton Vineyards

You can find this amazing vineyard in Dobson, Shelton Vineyards is the largest family-owned estate winery in North Carolina.

The winery was founded in 1999 by brothers Charlie and Ed Shelton, who wanted to bring European-style winemaking to North Carolina.

Today, Shelton Vineyards produces a wide range of wines, including Chardonnay, Viognier, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot.

The winery offers tours, tastings, and a variety of events throughout the year.

On the property of Shelton Vineyards, you’ll find the Harvest Grill, a restaurant offering farm-to-table cuisine and stunning views of the surrounding North Carolina vineyards. In addition to being among the top NC wineries, Shelton Vineyards also hosts events such as concerts, festivals, and wine release parties.

The winery has become a popular destination for both wine enthusiasts and those looking for a beautiful and relaxing setting to enjoy a glass of wine.

Visitors to the vineyard can also explore the picturesque grounds, which include a scenic walking trail and a tranquil pond. The winery is located in the heart of the Yadkin Valley wine region, known for its beautiful countryside and thriving wine industry.

Shelton Vineyards is dedicated to producing high-quality wines while also promoting sustainable and eco-friendly practices in their winemaking process.

Their commitment to excellence and passion for winemaking make them a must-visit destination for anyone in the area. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or simply looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway, Shelton Vineyards has something to offer for everyone.

3. Raffaldini Vineyards and Winery

Raffaldini Vineyards and Winery Known as one of the best NC wineries, it’s located in Ronda, North Carolina, at the heart of the Yadkin Valley wine region.

The winery is known for its Italian-style wines, including Sangiovese, Montepulciano, and Vermentino.

Travelers to Raffaldini can take a guided tour of the vineyards and winery, taste the wines, and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

The winery also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including wine tastings, food, wine pairings, and live music which is a can not miss! Raffaldini also offers a wine club for those who want to enjoy their favorite wines on a regular basis, as well as a picturesque event space for weddings and other special occasions.

The winery is committed to sustainable practices, using environmentally friendly farming techniques and energy-efficient technology in their winemaking process.

Raffaldini Vineyards and Winery is a perfect destination for wine enthusiasts and anyone looking for a relaxing and enjoyable day in the beautiful Yadkin Valley. With its stunning views, delicious wines, and engaging events, it’s a must-visit for anyone in the area.

4. Childress Vineyards

Childress Vineyards is located in a little place called Lexington, North Carolina, and was founded by NASCAR team owner Richard Childress.

Chardonnay, Viognier, and Cabernet Sauvignon are just a few of the award-winning wines produced by the winery.

Childress Vineyards offers guided tours of the vineyard, wine tastings, and dining at The Bistro, a restaurant located on the property.

The winery also holds numerous activities all year long, such as live music performances, cooking classes, and wine tastings. Furthermore, Childress Vineyards has a gift store where guests can buy liquor, clothing, and other goods. In addition to its wine production and events, Childress Vineyards also hosts special events such as weddings, corporate events, and private parties.

The scenic vineyard and winery make for a beautiful and memorable setting for any special occasion.

The winery is also committed to sustainable and organic farming practices, prioritizing the health of the land and the quality of the grapes. Visitors can take in the picturesque views of the vineyard while sipping on their favorite varietals, making for a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Childress Vineyards is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and anyone looking for a unique and charming experience in the heart of North Carolina wine country. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a casual fan, the winery has something to offer every visitor.

5. Hanover Park Vineyard

The Old World-style wines produced by the Yadkinville, North Carolina-based Hanover Park Vineyard are created from Italian and French grape varieties.

Sangiovese, Mourvèdre, Viognier, and other grape types are planted in the winery’s vineyards, which are used to make a variety of red, white, and rosé wines.

Hanover Park offers wine tastings, farm and winery tours, and relaxing patio space for guests.

Throughout the year, Hanover Park, one of the best vineyards in the area, hosts several events, including festivals, live music performances, and wine dinners for anyone looking to sip some good wine.

The winery is dedicated to using traditional winemaking techniques and sustainable practices to produce high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of North Carolina. They also offer a wine club for those who want to regularly enjoy their handcrafted wines, making them among the best vineyards in the area.

Hanover Park Vineyard has received numerous awards and accolades for their wines, and their tasting room provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for wine enthusiasts to sample and purchase their products.

Overall, Hanover Park Vineyard is a must-visit for wine lovers looking for Old World-style wines with a Southern twist in the Yadkin Valley wine region.

6. Duplin Winery

The Duplin Winery is a well-known producer of delicious Muscadine wines and is located in Rose Hill, North Carolina.

The Fussell family established the winery in the 1970s, and it is still run and owned by them.

The Muscadine wines produced by Duplin Winery include red, white, and blush types in addition to specialty and fruit-infused wines.

Travelers to Duplin can take a tour of the vineyard, partake in a wine sampling, and explore the gift shop, which stocks a selection of trinkets and mementos related to wine.

Additionally, the winery holds numerous activities all year long, such as live music performances and wine tastings. Duplin also has a bistro on the premises where lunch and dinner are served.

The Bistro offers a variety of dishes that are specifically paired with Duplin’s wines, providing a unique and delightful dining experience. The winery also hosts special events, such as weddings and private parties, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Duplin Winery’s commitment to producing high-quality wines and providing a memorable experience for visitors has contributed to its success and popularity in the wine industry. With its charming southern hospitality and delicious Muscadine wines, Duplin Winery is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and anyone looking for a fun and enjoyable experience.

7. Banner Elk Winery and Villa

In the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, there is a remarkable vineyard called the Banner Elk Winery and Villa.

Guests to this winery can enjoy tours of the vineyards and winemaking facilities in addition to tasting several wines made from grapes produced nearby.

One of the standout features of the Banner Elk Winery and Villa is the on-site villa, which offers luxurious accommodations for visitors who want to stay overnight.

Elegant rooms with private balconies that face out over the vineyards are available at the estate. Each morning, a gourmet breakfast is also provided.

The Banner Elk Winery and Villa also holds a variety of special events throughout the year, including live music performances, wine dinners, and vineyard tours. The winery’s estate also has a stunning event space for weddings and other special occasions, offering a picturesque backdrop for any celebration.

The wines produced at the Banner Elk Winery are crafted from a variety of grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, and Chardonnay, among others. The winery also produces fruit wines and meads using locally sourced ingredients.

In addition to its wine offerings, the winery is also known for its commitment to sustainability, utilizing eco-friendly practices in its vineyards and winemaking processes.

Overall, the Banner Elk Winery and Villa offers a unique and luxurious experience for visitors looking to explore the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains while enjoying delicious wines and upscale accommodations.

8. RayLen Vineyards and Winery

RayLen Vineyards and Winery is located in Mocksville, North Carolina, and is known for its estate-grown wines, including Chardonnay, Viognier, and Cabernet Franc.

The winery is set on a 35-acre estate and features a tasting room, a covered patio, and a picnic area.

Travelers to RayLen can enjoy wine tasting, tour the vineyards and wineries, and relax in the beautiful countryside setting.

The winery also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including wine tastings, food, wine pairings, and live music.

RayLen’s wines are distributed throughout North Carolina and are also available for purchase online. Visitors can also join the wine club to receive regular shipments of the winery’s latest releases and special discounts on purchases.

The boutique winery is a popular destination for weddings, private events, and corporate gatherings, with a picturesque backdrop and a variety of event spaces available for rent.

RayLen Vineyards and Winery is committed to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, and they strive to produce high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Yadkin Valley region.

Overall, RayLen Vineyards and Winery offers a relaxing and enjoyable experience for wine enthusiasts and visitors seeking a taste of North Carolina’s wine country.

9. Jones von Drehle Vineyards & Winery

Jones von Drehle Vineyards & Winery is located in Thurmond, North Carolina, and produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and a sparkling wine made using the traditional méthode champenoise.

The winery is situated on a picturesque 65-acre estate and features a tasting room, a covered patio, and a terrace with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Wine tastings, vineyard and estate tours, and information on the wine-making process are all available to guests at Jones von Drehle.

The winery also holds several activities all throughout the year, such as live music performances, wine tastings, and food and wine pairings. Jones von Drehle is known for its commitment to producing high-quality wines, and the vineyard and winery have received numerous awards and accolades for their wines.

Visitors can also join the wine club to receive regular shipments of their favorite wines and access to exclusive events and discounts.

The owners, Diana and Chuck Jones, and Dan and Lisa von Drehle, have a passion for winemaking and are dedicated to creating exceptional wines that showcase the unique terroir of the Yadkin Valley. They take pride in sustainable farming practices and ensuring that their wines, made from the best vine varieties of the region, are a reflection of the Yadkin Valley – one of the best North Carolina wineries.

Whether you are a wine enthusiast looking to explore new wines or just want to enjoy a relaxing day in a beautiful setting, Jones von Drehle Vineyards & Winery offers a memorable experience for all visitors. With its combination of stunning scenery, delicious wines, and hospitality, it is a must-visit destination in the North Carolina wine country.

10. Round Peak Vineyards

The Yadkin Valley area of North Carolina is home to a family-owned vineyard known as one of the best North Carolina wineries. Round Peak Vineyards.

This winery provides a broad selection of wines, including classic European varietals and more avant-garde blends made from grapes grown nearby.

Round Peak Vineyards provides visitors with the chance to explore the vineyards and winemaking facilities in addition to wine tastings. Visitors can also go to special events including live music shows and dinners with wine and food pairings.

The on-site tasting room at Round Peak Vineyards, which is located in a dairy barn from the 1930s, is one of the vineyard’s unique attributes.

Travelers can taste a variety of wines in the tasting room while taking in views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains. It has a warm, rustic atmosphere.

Round Peak Vineyards is a must-visit location for anyone interested in learning more about North Carolina’s vibrant and exciting wine industry.

Round Peak Vineyards has something to offer everyone, whether you’re a seasoned wine expert or just curious to learn more about this fascinating and constantly changing industry. In addition to the wine tastings and events, Round Peak Vineyards also offers educational tours of their winemaking facilities. Visitors can learn about the entire winemaking process, from grape to bottle, and gain a deeper appreciation for the art and science behind producing high-quality wines.

The vineyard also offers a picnic area for visitors to enjoy the beautiful surroundings while sipping on their favorite wines. Being one of the best North Carolina vineyards, it’s the perfect place to relax, sip wine, and unwind with friends and family.

Round Peak Vineyards is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. They use environmentally-friendly practices in their vineyards and winemaking process, ensuring that their wines are not only delicious, but also produced with care for the earth.

Whether you’re looking for a fun day trip, a special event venue, or a place to deepen your knowledge of wine, Round Peak Vineyards is a wonderful destination to explore. With its warm hospitality, delicious wines, and stunning views, it’s no wonder that visitors from near and far are drawn to this unique winery in North Carolina.

Wine production in North Carolina

Winemaking in North Carolina has a long past, going all the way back to the 17th century when European settlers first started setting up vineyards there.

Today, North Carolina has over 200 vineyards and is the tenth-largest producer of wine in the nation.

Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Syrah are just a few of the many grape varieties that can be grown in the state due to its temperature and geography.

With more people traveling to the state’s wine regions to taste the local wines and new wineries opening up regularly, the North Carolina wine industry has seen significant growth in recent years.

The Yadkin Valley, Swan Creek, and Haw River Valley are a few of North Carolina’s most well-known wine locations, each with its own unique wine styles.

The Yadkin Valley, located in the western part of the state, is known for its diverse range of wines, from traditional European varietals to unique hybrid grapes. Swan Creek, a North Carolina vineyard also located in the western region, is renowned for its rich, full-bodied red wines and delicate white wines. The Haw River Valley, in the central part of the state, is known for its sustainable and organic winemaking practices, producing fruity and elegant wines.

In addition to traditional wineries, North Carolina also has a thriving craft beer and cider scene, making it a great destination for beverage enthusiasts.

With its rich history, diverse geography, and growing reputation for quality wines, North Carolina is establishing itself as a prominent player in the American wine industry.

Wine Tourism in North Carolina

With its picturesque vineyards, rolling hills, and charming small towns, North Carolina is a popular destination for wine tourism.

Visitors can explore the state’s many wineries and tasting rooms, attend wine festivals and events, and take part in guided tours of the region’s top vineyards and wineries.

Many North Carolina wineries offer tastings and tours throughout the year, with some also offering on-site accommodations, restaurants, and other amenities.

Popular activities for visitors include vineyard tours, wine tastings, and food and wine pairing events.

In addition to wine, many North Carolina wineries also offer a range of local cheeses, meats, and other culinary specialties, making for a delicious and memorable experience for travelers. North Carolina’s wine tourism industry continues to grow, with new vineyards and wineries opening across the state.

The Yadkin Valley and the Asheville area are particularly well-known for their wine tourism offerings, with a variety of wineries and tasting rooms to explore.

In addition to the wine itself, visitors to North Carolina wine country can also enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region, with many wineries offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

For those interested in learning more about North Carolina’s wine industry, there are also educational and informational opportunities available, such as wine-making classes and workshops.

Whether visitors are looking for a relaxing weekend getaway, a romantic escape, or a fun and educational experience, North Carolina’s wine tourism scene offers something for everyone. With its welcoming atmosphere, delicious wines, and beautiful scenery, it’s no wonder that North Carolina has become a top destination for wine lovers from around the country.

Wine and Food Pairing

What is the correlation between wine and food pairing? It’s an art of using great wine to complement delicious food. It is the practice of pairing various wine varieties with complementary meals to bring out the flavors of both the wine and the food.

Many wineries in North Carolina offer wine and food pairing experiences, which allow visitors to taste a variety of wines alongside carefully selected food pairings.

These experiences typically involve a guided tasting led by a knowledgeable wine professional who can offer insights into the different flavor profiles of the wines and how they complement different types of food.

Some wineries offer pre-set tasting menus, while others allow visitors to create their own pairings by selecting wines and food items from a menu.

Wine and food pairing experiences are a great way to learn more about the art of wine tasting and how to appreciate the complex flavors and aromas of different types of great wines.

They are also a fun and delicious way to spend an afternoon or evening with friends and family.

Wine and food pairing is a perfect date night if you are trying to impress that special someone. In addition to enjoying the delicious food and wine, these experiences can also offer a deeper understanding of the flavors and characteristics of the wines, helping visitors to develop a more sophisticated palate and appreciation for the craft of winemaking.

Overall, wine and food pairing experiences are a wonderful way to explore the world of wine in a relaxed and enjoyable setting, making them a popular activity for both wine enthusiasts and casual wine drinkers alike. So if you’re in North Carolina, be sure to check out the many wineries that offer these delightful experiences.

Wine Events and Festivals

North Carolina is home to a thriving wine industry, and there are many wine events and festivals held throughout the year to celebrate the region’s winemakers and their creations.

Guests to these events have the opportunity to sample a broad range of wines from various wineries while also enjoying live entertainment, food, and other activities.

The North Carolina Wine Festival, which takes place in May each year and features over 30 wineries from the state, and the Yadkin Valley Grape Festival, which honors the harvest season with wine tastings, grape stomping, and other enjoyable activities, are two of the most well-known wine events in North Carolina.

Other wine events and festivals in North Carolina include the Asheville Wine and Food Festival, which brings together some of the area’s top chefs and winemakers for a weekend of culinary and wine-focused events, and the Biltmore International Rose Trials, which displays the newest rose varieties from around the world.

The Charlotte Wine and Food Weekend is another popular event, featuring wine tastings, gourmet dinners, and auctions to benefit children’s charities. Additionally, the North Carolina Wine, Beer, and Shine Festival showcases the best beverages the state has to offer, including wine, beer, and spirits.

Overall, North Carolina offers a wide variety of wine events and festivals throughout the year, providing wine enthusiasts with plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the state’s flourishing wine industry. From the mountains to the coast, there are endless options for experiencing the best that North Carolina has to offer in terms of wine, food, and entertainment.

Best wineries in North Carolina Summary

If you’re a wine enthusiast and want to taste the best of what North Carolina has to offer, then this is your guide!

Taking a weekend adventure? Then these wineries are the perfect place to go.

They all have different types of wine and scenery that will leave you wanting more.

Winery’s even work great for a romantic getaway!

I hope you enjoyed reading this post on the best wineries in North Carolina!

FAQS

Q: What are the best wineries in North Carolina?

A: Some of the best wineries in North Carolina include Linville Falls Winery, Overmountain Vineyards, Jolo Winery, Treehouse Vineyards, Grassy Creek Vineyards, and Cypress Bend Vineyards, among others.

Q: Where can I find wineries and vineyards in North Carolina?

A: Wineries and vineyards can be found across North Carolina, with popular areas including Yadkin Valley, Western North Carolina, and near Asheville.

Q: What are the popular wine regions in North Carolina?

A: The popular wine regions in North Carolina include the Yadkin Valley, Western North Carolina, and the North Carolina mountains.

Q: Can I go for wine tasting in North Carolina?

A: Yes, many wineries in North Carolina offer wine tasting experiences, allowing visitors to sample a variety of wines and enjoy the beautiful views of the vineyards.

Q: Which winery and vineyard in North Carolina are known for their beautiful views?

A: Some wineries and vineyards in North Carolina known for their beautiful views include Treehouse Vineyards, Grassy Creek Vineyards, and Cypress Bend Vineyards.

Q: What are the popular types of wines grown in North Carolina?

A: North Carolina is known for producing a variety of wines including dry wines, sweet wines, dessert wines, and Italian-style wines among others.

Q: What are some of the must-visit wineries near Asheville?

A: Some must-visit wineries near Asheville include Linville Falls Winery, Overmountain Vineyards, and Jolo Winery.

Q: Are there any specific vineyards in North Carolina worth a visit?

A: Yes, vineyards such as Overmountain Vineyards, Grassy Creek Vineyards, and Cypress Bend Vineyards are worth a visit for wine enthusiasts and tourists.

Q: Can I take wine tours in North Carolina?

A: Yes, many wineries in North Carolina offer a variety of tours including vineyard tours, wine-making tours, and wine tasting tours to provide visitors with a complete wine experience.

Q: Where can I find the best wineries and vineyards in NC?

A: Some of the best wineries and vineyards in NC can be found in areas such as Yadkin Valley, Western North Carolina, and near Asheville, offering a variety of tours and wine flights for visitors.

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1. Biltmore Estate Winery