Celebrating North Carolina Wines

Whether you enjoy red or white wines, North Carolina’s wineries and vineyards have plenty to offer. From the wineries of the North Carolina mountains to the coastal regions, North Carolina wines are quite diverse in their wine experiences. As the home of America’s first grape, North Carolina has earned the title as the only place in the world in which every majority type of grape is produced. North Carolina has more than 400 vineyards and over 100 wineries in locations throughout the state. Here are some of our favorite highlights to help you plan your next trip to North Carolina wine country.

 

In 2003, Yadkin Valley became the first American Viticultural Area (AVA) in North Carolina. With wineries and vineyards located throughout Wilkes, Surry, Yadkin, Davie, Davidson, Stokes and Forsyth counties, the grapes of Yadkin Valley include Muscadine, Scuppernong, Aleatico, Zinfandel and more. In this region, the wineries are generally smaller and include wine tasting rooms. In addition, there are also outdoor activities available, as well as, bed and breakfasts.

 

Here are a few options to consider when you visit this region:

 

 

Childress Vineyards began in 2004 when NASCAR team owner Richard Childress decided to follow his lifelong dress. Childress Vineyards is one of the top wineries in the state offers 72 acres of vineyards and roughly 11 different varieties of European Vitis vinifera cultivars. The white wine varieties available include Viognier, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling. The red varieties of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Syrah. Visit Here

 

Westbend Vineyards & Brewhouse is the oldest vineyard in Yadkin Valley. The vineyard features many wines, including cabernet sauvignon and has won many gold and silver medals for their quality wines. In 2012, Westbend added a brewery and visitors can enjoy great beers as well. Visit Here

 

The Haw River Valley region is an 868-square-mile region that spans Alamance, Caswell, Chatham, Guilford, Orange and Rockingham counties. This region is known for red vinifera winegrapes.

Here is one of the top options to consider when you visit this region:

 

Grove Winery specializes in growing and crafting exceptional European-style wines. This winery was awarded six double-gold medals at the North Carolina Wine Competition between 2007-2011. Grove Winery offers daily wine tastings with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Chardonnay, Viognier, Malbec, Syrah and Tempranillo wines. Visit Here

 

Hiwassee Highlands is located in the southern Appalachian Mountains within the upper Hiwassee River basin in Cherokee and Clay Counties in southwestern North Carolina and several counties in northwestern Georgia. This region includes 54-acres and is known for producing French-American hybrids, American grape varieties, and Vitis vinifera.

 

Here is one of the top options to consider when you visit this region:

 

Calaboose Cellars has won many silver and gold medals for its wines. It also feature beers and a wine tasting room that offers wine tastings daily, except for Wednesday and Saturday. Visit Here

 

This region features 5 vineyards that are located within just 5 miles of each other: Dobbins Creek Vineyards, Laurel Gray Vineyards & Winery, Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery, Shadow Springs Vineyard, and Windsor Run Cellars. The wineries of the Swan Creek Wine Trail specialize in varietal wines and blends