Top Wineries to Visit in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Whether you prefer the full-bodied flavors of a rich Cabernet Sauvignon or the delicate and fresh taste of a pinot noir, any wine enthusiast knows that an exceptional glass will leave you wanting more.
There is no better place to taste an array of different wines than at the place where they are expertly produced –– the vineyards and wineries themselves.
Together, we discover 10 of the best wineries in the Blue Ridge Mountains, each offering an assortment of local wines to choose from.
1. Chateau Morrisette Winery
Located in Floyd, Virginia, the Chateau Morrisette Winery is one of the oldest and largest wineries in the state. As you make your way around the grounds, you will see the vineyards surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains in the distance.
The majority of their wines are made from local Virginia grapes, including varieties such as chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, and pinot noir. They offer wine tastings and tours of the cellars to see how their wines are made. After your wine tasting, be sure to visit the award-winning restaurant for Southern favorites like homemade pimento cheese, blackened NC catfish, and wild-caught shrimp and grits.
2. Biltmore Winery
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains is the historic Biltmore Winery. It’s only fitting that the most famous home in America have a private vineyard producing a variety of more than 20 handcrafted vintages.
Visitors can take a tour to explore the vineyards and learn the process for making the award-winning reds, whites, and rosés. Experts will help you choose the perfect bottle to take home after your visit.
3. Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards
Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards is a vineyard and orchard located near Hendersonville, known for its wine and hard cider. There are nearly 30 distinct flavors of wine and cider to choose from, all grown and processed at one of their three tasting rooms. Be sure to check out their Airbnb experience for the perfect weekend getaway.
4. Linville Falls Winery
Just a short drive from the spectacular Linville Falls is the Linville Falls Winery. This family-owned and operated vineyard, winery, and farm produces everything from grape and berry varieties for their wines to pumpkins, apples, and even Christmas trees! On your visit, you can enjoy a wine tasting, live music, and a bite to eat from one of the various food trucks that stop by on occasion.
5. Grandfather Vineyard and Winery
With over five acres of grapevines, the Grandfather Vineyard and Winery is the first producing winery In Watauga county. This charming vineyard overlooks the iconic Grandfather Mountain and grows roughly 12 varieties of grapes. Because of the higher elevation, these fruits produce wines with bold flavors. Visitors can enjoy a number of events on site throughout the year that include live music and different food trucks.
6. Thistle Meadow Winery
Spend a relaxing afternoon at the Thistle Meadow Winery, located in a lush valley in Laurel Springs. This winery produces 30 different types of wine that are available throughout the year. Wine tours take visitors behind-the-scenes to learn about the process and of course, to taste the wine. They offer dry reds, dry whites, blush & sweet wines, along with cooking wines. Be sure to ask about their award-winning wines during your visit.
7. Banner Elk Winery and Villa
Just minutes from the charming town of Banner Elk is the Banner Elk Winery, the most acclaimed winery in the Carolina’s High Country. Processing both their own and other locally grown French-American and American varieties of grapes, this winery has been able to create spectacular wines.
On your visit, you can taste all of their award-winning wines, discover the winemaking process, or simply relax on the grounds sipping on your favorite glass. If you’re looking to extend your visit to the winery, The Villa at Banner Elk Winery provides the perfect getaway for you to appreciate the beauty of the gardens or winery perched high in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
8. Crane Creek Vineyards
Situated on the North Georgia Blue Ridge Mountains are the Crane Creek Vineyards. Inspired by his time spent in Northern Italy, founder Eric Seifarth started the winery and now runs the family business. They offer a wide range of award-winning red and white wine varieties.
If you are in town on a Friday, be sure to check out their “Aperitivo Fridays.” Per Italian tradition, enjoy small plates with your wine, catered by Paris & Company. There is also live music to get the weekend started on the right foot.
9. Victoria Valley Vineyards
Located in beautiful Upstate South Carolina, Victoria Valley Vineyards is a little piece of Europe –– found right in your backyard. The elevation and unique soil structure of the area work in unison to produce Vinifera wines, rich in flavor. On your visit you can discover the 47-acres of vineyards, chateau-inspired winery, tasting room, gift shop and deli.
10. Wellborn Winery
Just north of Greenville is the Wellborn Winery, whose wines reflect the history and nature of the area’s climate and soil. With French-American hybrids and domestic American varieties, this small-scale craft winery has mastered the art of blending different grapes to produce exceptional flavors in each bottle.
At the winery, you can explore the vineyards and taste their award-winning wines. For a private event, you can reserve their Woods Cabana. This covered outdoor area is the perfect place to host, right along the edge of the vineyard.
The Wine Experience at The Cliffs
At The Cliffs’ exclusive private community located along the shores of Lake Keowee, The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards, wine is a fundamental part of life. From the moment you arrive in the community, members can appreciate the native Muscadine grapes that lead their way through the grounds –– making you feel like you’re on a never-ending wine tasting through the Tuscan countryside.
This spectacular community is known for its signature Tom Fazio golf course, designed with eight of the holes right along the water’s edge. After a round of golf, members can dine in the stately clubhouse, home to an al fresco pizza kitchen.
Because we understand the importance of exemplary wine with your fine dining experience, we have a team of a dozen sommeliers always ready to lend a helping hand. They are available to provide experienced pairings as you choose from our collection of world-class wines.
If you want to connect with other members who share your passion for wine, you’ll want to join our private social club dedicated to all things wine. You’ll be able to taste new flavors, discuss your favorite wines and make friendships that will last a lifetime. This is just one of the many details that make The Cliffs such a lovely place to call home.
We invite you to stop by The Cliffs on your next visit to the Blue Ridge Mountains to discover, firsthand, what makes it a truly remarkable place to call home.
