Why you should plan a trip to visit the best wineries in Western North Carolina!
North Carolina is a state rich with wineries, over 200 to be exact. Western North Carolina is one of four large wine regions in the state, each offering unique experiences and flavors for wine lovers. The diverse microclimates of this area provide ideal conditions for growing a variety of grapes, and North Carolina is the only place in the world where every major type of grape is grown!
Along with touring the vineyards and visiting the tasting rooms, many wineries offer activities that complement the wine experience such as live musicians, guided tours, and culinary workshops. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply enjoy a good glass with friends, these western North Carolina wineries offer something for everyone to enjoy. So plan a trip to experience the beauty of this unique area, one sip at a time.
Banner Elk Winery
The Banner Elk Winery is the perfect destination for wine lovers looking for a relaxing experience. Guests can unwind on cozy couches and enjoy the scenery of the stunning property while savoring a flight of excellent wine.
Also for those looking for a romantic vacation, look no further than the charming Banner Elk Villas. With eight suites to choose from, some featuring a private fireplace, you will be pampered with the most comfortable amenities. Don’t miss the incredible bed and breakfast experience right at the winery, complete with a gourmet breakfast to start your day off right.
Fun Fact: Banner Elk is known as the “Culinary Hot Spot of the North Carolina High Country”. Locally-owned restaurants from delis to upscale bistros dot the town and provide an eclectic and delicious culinary experience!
Grandfather Mountain Vineyard and Winery
If you’re looking for a fun and relaxing way to cap off your day after visiting Grandfather Mountain State Park, why not visit the Grandfather Mountain Winery? Not only is the wine flight amazing, but you also get to enjoy a breathtaking view of the mountain from the winery.
The best part? The property boasts numerous secluded spots that are perfect for spending quality time with your loved ones.
Travel tip: We always bring our portable GPS navigator on road trips. It’s easy to carry and can show us how to get to any place we want. We just had to type in “Grandfather Mountain Winery” on this trip, and it showed us directions with reviews from TripAdvisor. We suggest getting it because it’s cheap, convenient, and helpful for travelers!
Linville Falls Winery
Linville is a small mountain town nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with the Linville Gorge and Linville Falls areas offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and rock climbing.
Linville’s charming downtown area features shops, restaurants, and galleries, with local crafts and artwork on display. Linville is a hidden gem that offers a unique experience for those looking for an escape in nature.
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to unwind after your outdoor adventures, we highly recommend checking out the Linville Falls Winery just a few miles from the gorge and the waterfall. This charming spot offers fire pits and heaters for chilly days, as well as a spacious outdoor patio perfect for soaking up the summer sun while sipping wine and listening to live music. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a stroll through the picturesque vineyards with a glass of wine in hand.
Tip: Stay nearby at the Linville Falls Lodge. Built in the 1930’s, each room has an outdoor deck perfect for enjoying chilly nights in North Carolina.
Travel tip: If you are visiting the Linville area in the fall, the Linville Falls Winery offers hay rides for families through the Christmas tree farm! Kids will enjoy the bumpy ride, and it is a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
The Biltmore Estate Winery
Unlike the smaller towns we’ve discussed, Asheville is a bustling city with a lot of activities to offer. The town of Asheville is filled with live music, culinary delights, and an exciting nightlife.
Also known for extensive farm-to-table restaurants and craft breweries, Asheville is a foodie paradise. Perhaps what truly sets Asheville apart is the breathtaking scenery, with stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains as its backdrop.
The Biltmore Estate is one of the most popular places to visit when in Asheville, and the Winery at the Biltmore is a main draw. In fact, it is the most-visited winery in the country!
Situated in the Antler Hill Village area of the Biltmore property, the winery was established in 1985 and covers an area of 94 acres, with 45 acres of vineyards producing award-winning wines. The winery offers wine tours and tastings, and visitors can explore the wine production process from grape to bottle.
Note: Guests do have to have an entry ticket to the Estate in order to visit the winery, unless you are staying on-property at the Inn on Biltmore Estate or the Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate.
Mountain Brook Vineyards
Mountain Brook Vineyards is an award-winning family-owned winery located in the small town of Tryon, near Asheville. The vineyard offers stunning views of the surrounding terrain. Mountain Brook Winery also offers a variety of signature blends that are made from grapes grown on-site.
Dedicated to providing an eco-friendly environment, and all of the wines are produced using sustainable and organic farming practices. The winery also offers tastings, tours, and private events, making it the perfect destination for wine lovers and enthusiasts.
We hope we have inspired you to visit the amazing wineries in western North Carolina. You can stay up-to-date with all our travel advice if you sign up below. By subscribing, you’ll receive a monthly schedule, helpful guides, and road-trip ideas to keep you inspired. Don’t miss this chance to make your trip through the best wineries of western North Carolina even better!
Happy travels!
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