North Carolina is one of the five most visited wine and culinary tourism states. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Yadkin Valley in the NC Triad has the best selection of wineries and vineyards that offer something for everyone. You can enjoy a relaxing day sipping wine, make a weekend out of it with wine tasting and romantic scenery, or embark on a unique llama trek and wine tasting adventure. The North Carolina Department of Agriculture has recognized this area as a "unique and valuable wine-growing region." Yadkin Valley wineries are rapidly gaining a reputation for growing high-quality grapes and producing world-class, award-winning wines.
Relax and sip
Just a short drive from Winston-Salem, RayLen Vineyards in Mocksville boasts over 35,000 European varietal grapevines. The tasting room is open seven days per week. Be sure to check the event calendar for music and food.
Laurel Gray Vineyards and the Myers family in Hamptonville have been good stewards of the land for ten generations, committed to sustainable winery and farming operations. Visit the tasting room and relax on the veranda overlooking the vineyards, pond, and winery.
Something Unique
Divine Llama Vineyards in East Bend has numerous award-winning wines and the largest llama farm in the Southeast. In spring, fall, and winter, you can take a llama trek around the vineyards and enjoy a wine tasting.
Grassy Creek Vineyard in Elkin offers a unique experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Located on the Grassy Creek Trail, hikers can enjoy moderate hike through a pine forest down to the rushing Carter Falls on Elkin Creek. Hike back up to enjoy a wine flight at the renovated barn, often with live local music events.
Make a Weekend Out of It (wineries with accommodations)
In the Yadkin Valley, just 25 miles west of Winston-Salem, you'll find Sanders Ridge, offering up to 16 varieties of estate-grown wines. This 150-acre century-designated farm is open for tastings, pairing dinners, live music, and cabin rental.
Shelton Vineyards in Dobson is one of the most extensive vineyards on the east coast. Their wines have won numerous national and international awards. Tours and tastings are offered daily, and you can enjoy the walking path through the grounds and picnic area. Nearby, you'll find Hampton Inn at Shelton Vineyards to accommodate your stay.
Overlooking Big Elkin Creek, on the site of a historic grist mill built in 1896, you can celebrate nature and the art of winemaking at Elkin Creek Vineyard in Elkin. The vineyards are comprised of four lush acres of Merlot, Sangiovese, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Book a Creekside cabin for a rustic getaway.
Round Peak Vineyards in Mount Airy is one of the northernmost vineyards in the Yadkin Valley, sitting at an elevation of 1300 ft with 12-acres of vineyards planted with primarily French and Italian varietals. The covered patio offers spectacular views, especially at sunset! Stay in a comfortable rental cabin and enjoy everything the area has to offer.
