You may be surprised to learn that the mountains of Western North Carolina are home to over 60 wineries, with more than a dozen within an hour’s drive of Asheville. To truly sample what the vineyards in our local hills can produce, we have narrowed it down to what we consider the five best wineries of Western North Carolina. We have included large wineries and some that are family-owned. There are urban choices and some with views that will have your camera snapping photo after photo.
Addison Farms Vineyard
4005 New Leicester Hwy
Leicester NC
Addison Farms Vineyard is a fifteen-minute ride from Wildberry Lodge. They have 10 acres planted and obtain grapes from several other local farms. They cultivate six grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese, Montepulciano, Petit Verdot, and Petit Manseng. They recommend a reservation for the best experience if you plan on going for a tasting. In addition to the wines, they have several meads available.
Biltmore Estate Winery
1 Lodge St
Asheville NC
The Biltmore Estate Winery has the distinction of being the most visited winery in the United States. Visitors to the Estate have a complimentary wine tasting as a benefit of their ticket. The grandson of the original Vanderbilt, William A. V. Cecil, had the vision to carry his grandfather’s love of wine into the development of vineyards and a winery in the 1970s. The winery opened in 1985 and handcrafts both still and sparkling wines.
Some of the grapes are grown on the premises. The Biltmore selects grapes from other areas of North Carolina, even as far as California, if the grape varietal requires a different climate. There are red, white, and rosé selections that will suit the taste of any visitor.
plēb urban winery
289 Lyman St
Asheville NC
plēb urban winery has its production facility in downtown Asheville, in the River Arts District. They believe in using organic and biodynamic farming practices on proprietary property and encourage the same practices with partners. The owners choose grapes that flourish in the North Carolina growing areas. Come and enjoy the funky atmosphere of their Asheville location and taste still and sparkling wines made with minimal intervention.
Hendersonville Winery Trail
The 45-minute drive from Wildberry Lodge to Hendersonville is well worth it. There are seven total wineries to visit, but we have narrowed it down to two. If that isn’t enough for you, check out the other wineries on the Hendersonville Winery Trail.
Stone Ashe Vineyard
736 Green Mountain Rd
Hendersonville NC
Stone Ashe Vineyard is one of the newer vineyards, and the view is unsurpassed. The tasting room, with many glass windows and a modern façade, has indoor and outdoor seating. Their grapes are Bordeaux-based and include Meritage, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. Because of their small size, they ask that you reserve a tasting time. You may also order charcuterie or cheese boards, hummus, and craft chocolates to pair with their wine.
Sawyer Springs Vineyard
124 Sandy Hill Ln
Hendersonville NC
Sawyer Springs Vineyard is a family-owned vineyard emphasizing the small batch of vintages more than a fancy tasting room. Grape varietals include cabernet sauvignon, zinfandel, merlot, riesling, and muscadine. This six-generation farm family gives family names to many of its wines.
Before and After Your Wine Tour
There is so much more to do in Western NC during your visit! Before or after visiting the wineries of Western North Carolina, you can tour the Biltmore Estate, take a hike, or visit a local farm. If you need to unwind, relax in our hot tub or wander the grounds. Choose your perfect room or relaxing cabin, and plan your getaway today.
Photo courtesy of Jeff Frisbee/Addison Farms Vineyard
