While it may not be Napa, North Carolina is home to almost 200 wineries that are spread out across the state all the way from the sandy coast to the mountains. The best part? All are accessible by car with many close enough for a day trip.
Here are some of our favorite NC wineries to visit, listed in order of driving distance, to spice up your autumn days ahead:
Rocky River Vineyards
11685 Reed Mine Rd., Midland, NC 28107
Travel Time: Approximately 35 minutes
For just a quick escape, Rocky Rocky is an easy one, especially for a wine picnic, a Wine Slushy, or even a beer as they now carry 5 different types of canned beer. Sitting on 45 acres in the rolling hills of eastern Cabarrus County, Rocky River gets its name from the Big Meadow Creek that flows through the property toward Rocky River. The family-owned vineyard has been growing muscadine grapes since 2003 and offers a variety of wines all fermented in steel tanks including those from grapes grown on-site and others. Plus, wine slushies are only $5 on Wine Slushy Wednesday (through summer). Just sayin.
Veronét Vineyards & Winery
1549 Ike Brooks Dr, Kings Mountain, NC 28086
Travel Time: Approximately 37 minutes
Located in Kings Mountain, NC, Veronét is truly very easy to get to for an afternoon of sipping wine. Veronét offers their delicious wine by a tasting flight, by the glass, and by the bottle. When you arrive, we recommend ordering a tasting flight so you can see what you’d most enjoy by the glass or by the bottle. With your tasting flight, you’ll receive three 3 oz. glasses of wine to enjoy seated inside the tasting room or outside on the patio.
We’ve got the full Scoop on this beautiful gem including how to get there, what to do while you’re there, and where to stay here.
Treehouse Vineyards
301 Bay St, Monroe, NC 28112
Travel Time: Aproximately 40 minutes
Treehouse Vineyards is most well-known for its adult treehouses perched above the vineyards, some of which are available to rent overnight. Located in Monroe, you can rent a treehouse overlooking the vineyard while sipping on a glass of Treehouse wine. What better way to spend a fall afternoon? Also, don’t forget to try their WinoRitas — Muscadine cider mixed with your favorite wine.
Treehouse Vineyards does not require anyone who has the COVID-19 vaccination to wear a mask. They are currently reservation only. For tastings call: 704-283-4208.
Childress Vineyards
1000 Childress Vineyards Rd., Lexington, NC 27295
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour
Nascar and wine are not your usual pairing but at Childress Vineyards, NASCAR legend Richard Childress’ family’s grape home, that’s exactly what you can expect. Over 70 acres of vineyards and 15 varieties of European Vitis vinifera cultivars make up Childress Vineyards. The vineyard produces more than 30 different types of wines using an assortment of varietals. Selections range from cab franc and merlot all the way to a fruity riesling. Daily tours and tastings are offered and the on-site bistro has an impressive menu, and this winery has music on the weekends.
Raffaldini Vineyards
450 Groce Rd., Ronda, NC 28670
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes
Raffaldini Vineyards is one of our personal favorites for its stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and its expansive patio. Take a walk through the vineyard and learn about the history of Raffaldini on their vineyard tours, then head to the Tasting Room to enjoy classically dry Italian style wines ranging from reds like Sangiovese Classico, Montepulciano Riserva, and Grande Riserva with the white being Vermentino and a sparking Prosecco style wine called Auguri. Walk-ins are accepted, but they recommend you make reservations to guarantee a spot.
An upcoming event to have on your radar is The Festa Italiana, which is held every year during the third week in September. The Fest Italiana is one of the largest Italian celebrations in the southeast and features food vendors, artists, and entertainment from across the nation. Visit here to learn more.
Piccione Vineyards
2364 Cedar Forest Rd, Ronda, NC 28670
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes
Located directly beside Raffaldini Vineyards, Piccione Vineyards has the same scenic views as its neighbor. Head to their tasting room where you can enjoy flights, bottles, and glasses of Piccione wine. We recommend relaxing out on the covered deck which is ideal for a quiet afternoon drinking wine surrounded by the beauty of the NC foothills.
Be sure to check out their calendar of events and food truck visits here before planning your trip.
Grassy Creek Vineyard & Winery
235 Chatham Cottage Ln, State Rd, NC 28676
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 18 minutes
Situated in the picturesque Yadkin Valley, Grassy Creek Vineyard and Winery has a vast selection of wines that range from full-bodied, robust reds to light and fruity whites. Visitors can enjoy tastings in the Red Barn Tasting Room, hike around the winery, and rent one of Grassy Creek’s Klondike Cabins to give yourself a place to land after a fun day full of wine tasting.
Elkin Creek Vineyard
318 Elkin Creek Mill Rd, Elkin, NC 28621
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes
Elkin Creek Vineyard is tucked away off the main roads in what seems like its own little world, surrounded by trees with nothing but the sound of the running creek off in the distance. There is much to explore on the property, including the vineyard’s namesake, Elkin Creek, a tree swing, and a historic mill. A reservation is required during the week to dine in their tasting room and patio, but walk-ins are welcome for wine tastings on the weekend. We suggest reserving your visit for a Sunday when they’re serving their made-to-order brick oven pizzas. If you want to make a weekend trip out of your visit, there are a few creek-side cabins on the property that are available for rent.
Shelton Vineyards
286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson, NC 27017
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes
In the heart of the Yadkin Valley, Viticulture Area is Shelton Vineyards, one of the largest vineyards on the East Coast. It shares the same climate and growing season as some of the best wine-growing regions in Europe. Thanks to two Mount Airy brothers, this vineyard produces several varieties of Vitis vinifera grapes: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Malbec, Tannat, Petit Verdot, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Viognier. Come to taste the award-winning wines at Shelton Vineyards, and stay for dinner at Harvest Grill, their signature restaurant nestled in the vineyard.
At this time, they are NOT offering their usual tours, but their regular and reserve tastings are still available with no reservation required (unless over 10 people).
Overmountain Vineyards
2012 Sandy Plains Rd #8799, Tryon, NC 28782
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes
Come for the wine but stay for the incredible views at Overmountain Vineyards. There, acres upon acres of beautiful green rolling hills lined with rows of grapevines and stunning views of the surrounding mountains set as the backdrop. The 70-acre family-owned farm sits Tryon Foothills of Polk County and focuses mainly on Petit Manseng, “an elegant aromatic white originally from southwest France” along with Cabernet Savuginon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot.
For those interested in staying overnight, Overmountain has luxury villas available for rent. Villas sleep up to four people with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a full kitchen.
Parker-Binns Vineyard
2275 Whiteside Rd, Mill Spring, NC 28756
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes
Due to Safety Concerns, RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED. Call 828-863-0523
Located in the Tryon Foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Parker Binns is a multi-generation family-run 40-acre winery and vineyard with 12 acres under vine. It is Polk County’s newest winery & tasting room. While you’re there, be sure to try the Burger Barn, their onsite kitchen with a simple menu of food options to go with your favorite Parker-Binns wine.
Jones von Drehle Vineyards & Winery
964 Old Railroad Grade Rd, Thurmond, NC 28683
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 31 minutes
Family-owned and operated in the quaint town of Thurmond, Jones von Drehle Vineyards & Winery only produces wines from their thirty-acre of vines. Head to their tasting room and try a variety of wines, ranging from red, white and rosé, with their specialty being dry, European-styled wine. As of now, tours of the vineyard are not available due to Covid-19. Check back here for any updates.
Reservations are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome space permitting.
Stonefield Cellars Winery
8220 NC-68, Stokesdale, NC 27357
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes
Just over an hour and a half away from Uptown Charlotte sites Stonefield Cellars. Come for the relaxed environment paired with wine as you take in the beautiful landscaped gardens, patio, and amphitheater. For indoor spaces, check out the winery’s Tasting Room and Barrel Room where you can enjoy wine tasting flights, wine by the glass, and wine by the bottle.
Covid-19 Update: They are requiring masks indoors for all guests, and wine tasting for individuals or groups no more than 4 to be enjoyed at our indoor table (by reservation, limited to one-hour occupancy), or on our outdoor patio & garden (no reservation required). Visit here for more information on Covid policies before planning your trip.
Pilot Mountain Vineyards & Winery
1162 Bradley Rd, Pinnacle, NC 27043
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes
Have a relaxed afternoon filled with beautiful views and delicious wine. The 31-acre estate is family-owned and has a one-of-a-kind view of Pilot Mountian where you can enjoy handcrafted wine from flavorful grapes. Every Sunday is live music along with a various lineup of events at the vineyard. They also give you the option to stay overnight in a luxurious suite in their estate house, rented via Airbnb.
Silver Fork Winery
5000 Patton Rd, Morganton, NC 28655
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes
Located in Morganton, Silver Fork Winery has everything you need for a getaway without having to go far. Enjoy an elegant tasting room as you sip, or sit outside and take in all the scenic views of the South Mountains. Come on a Saturday to enjoy live music with your wine.
Covid-19 Update: Masks are required in the tasting room. Self-guided wine flights are $15 per/person and are available on Wednesday through Friday and Sunday to be enjoyed outside. On Saturdays, only glasses and bottles are available for purchase.
Divine Llama Vineyards
4126 Divine Llama Ln, East Bend, NC 27018
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 39 minutes
While there are plenty of beautiful vineyards to visit throughout the Yadkin Wine Valley, Divine Llama Vineyards stands to be the most unique with more than 70 llamas on the property. The wine is delicious and the llamas are friendly, making this a perfect getaway from home. They often have food trucks on the weekends and are currently open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from noon to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Current Divine Llama Tasting Room and Farm Guidelines
1) VISITORS ARE ASKED TO WEAR A FACE MASK WHEN ORDERING OR MAKING A PURCHASE.
2) THERE IS A $10 FARM VISIT CHARGE FOR ANYONE 4 TO 20 YEARS OF AGE OR HERE TO ONLY VISIT THE LLAMA.
3) ALL WINE WILL BE SOLD OUTSIDE ONLY UNDER THE PAVILLION.
4) PLASTIC CUPS RATHER THAN GLASSES WILL BE PROVIDED. GLASSES CAN BE PURCHASED.
5) WINE FLIGHTS ARE BEING OFFERED AT THIS TIME, NO TASTINGS
6) DOGS ON LEASHES ARE WELCOME AT THE TASTING ROOM ONLY.
7) CHILDREN ARE ALLOWED BUT MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT AT ALL TIMES ESPECIALLY WHILE DOWN ON THE FARM.
8) PLEASE DO NOT OPEN GATES OR CLIMB FENCES.
9) NO OUTSIDE ALCOHOL ALLOWED ON DLV PREMISES.
Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards
588 Chestnut Gap Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour and 49 minutes
Established in 2008, Saint Paul Mountian Vineyards is a working vineyard and orchard located in the Blue Ridge Mountains and was the first vineyard and winery in Henderson County. Come for wine tastings in their three tasting rooms, live music, events, classes, and delicious dinners to pair with your wine. Those looking for wine variety should look no further, as they have close to 30 wines that are both state and international award winners, specializing in French Vinifera and Normandy Style Hard Cider.
If you’re looking to stay overnight, check out the Wallace House located across the street from the vineyard.
Autumn Creek Vineyards
364 Means Creek Rd, Mayodan, NC 27027
Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes
Located in the beautiful countryside of Rockingham County, Autumn Creek Vineyards is a great destination to treat yourself to a getaway not far from home. Stop by their 2,000 square foot Tasting Room and sample any of their award-winning wines. Feel free to bring food or snacks as they do not offer food on site. They also offer two large log cabins and four luxury lodging rooms within walking distance if you want to treat yourself to a weekend getaway.
Cypress Bend Vineyards
21904 Riverton Rd, Wagram, NC 28396
Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours and 6 minutes
For a unique take on Muscadine wines, we recommend heading to Cypress Bend Vineyards in Wagram. They take the muscadine grape to a new level in their wine by crossing the spectrum from dry to semi-dry and sweet to semi-sweet. They also have a wide variety of other wines, including Cabernet and Malbec. Visit their Tasting Room where you’ll have the choice of two full flights of wine samples and are provided with a complimentary wine tour.
Biltmore Estate
1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803
Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours and 19 minutes
Visiting Asheville to see America’s largest private estate is worth the drive alone, but adding in complimentary wine tasting at Biltmore’s winery makes it even better. With more than 20 different selections to choose from — several of which are award-winning — there’s something that’s sure to appeal to everyone’s palate from unoaked chardonnays and full-bodied Cabs to semi-sweet blends and sparkling wines. After a tasting be sure to visit the wine bar where you can purchase a bottle of your favorite wine and pair it with a wide variety of cheeses or chocolate truffles. There are also specialty tours available that will take guests behind the scenes of the winery’s production facility, as well as one that takes you through the estate’s vineyards.
Reservations are required for all wine tastings and must be made on the day of your visit.
Banner Elk Winery & Villa
60 Deer Run, Banner Elk, NC 28604
Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours and 21 minutes
Nestled in the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains is Banner Elk Winery & Villa where you can find award-winning craft wine. The tasting room is open daily from noon to 6 p.m. year-round and costs $10 per person. Make it a weekend trip by staying in one of their many suits at the Villa, a luxury private retreat. To make reservations for your stay, visit here.
