Must-See Wineries in NC
A Wine-Lover’s Escape: Must-See Wineries in the North Carolina Foothills
My husband and I love to explore local wineries. In fact, we have visited several of those listed below. As the owners of a premier wedding venue, Redbird Ridge Estate, we want to ensure our bride and groom have quality wine for their guests at their wedding. Redbird Ridge Estate stands out as a great option for a unique venue in the foothills of North Carolina, just an hour from Charlotte, thanks to its blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and personalized experiences. Nestled at the base of Barrett Mountain and surrounded by 72 acres of rolling pastures, creeks, ponds, and breathtaking mountain views, the estate offers an intimate and picturesque setting that feels both secluded and special. The estate’s commitment to intentional hospitality and creating unforgettable moments ensures your wedding will be as meaningful and memorable as your love. With onsite lodging, Redbird Ridge Estate makes the perfect destination wedding venue. To see real weddings and inspiration, follow us on Instagram.
If you think wine country only exists in California, think again—North Carolina’s foothills are quietly producing some of the most interesting, hospitable, and downright gorgeous winery experiences in the Southeast. Rolling hills, sweeping mountain views, and a uniquely Southern sense of welcome make the Yadkin Valley and surrounding foothills a hidden gem for your next wine road trip. Buckle up for an uncorked adventure through some of the must-see wineries in NC, each bringing its own charm, flavors, and atmosphere to the glass.
Castello Barone: European Flair in Swan Creek
Let’s kick things off at Castello Barone, our first must-see winery in the North Carolina foothills. A boutique estate in the Swan Creek AVA near Ronda, Castello Barone is run by the passionate, sommelier-certified Barone family, the vibe here is an enchanting mix of European elegance and heartfelt North Carolina hospitality. Bonus: their adorable dog Bacchus greets visitors with enthusiasm and one of their wines is even named after him! We had the opportunity to sit down with the husband and wife duo that makes this winery super special. Don’t miss this one.
Sip on Italian-style whites like Vermentino and bold reds like Tannat, a French varietal, best enjoyed on their sprawling patio or in the stained-glass-adorned tasting room. It’s a favorite for outdoor sipping, friendly staff, and a dazzling variety of wines that even pickier palates will love.
Linville Falls Winery – Estate-Grown Varietals and Local Fruit Wines
Linville Falls Winery stands out as one of the premier destinations for wine lovers in the North Carolina foothills. Nestled on a stunning 40-acre estate just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, this family-owned winery combines breathtaking mountain views with a warm, relaxing atmosphere, making it ideal for both casual visits and special occasions. The winery excels in crafting a diverse range of wines—from crisp Rieslings and robust Cabernet Sauvignon to unique blends featuring estate-grown varietals and local fruit wines—benefiting from the region’s high elevation and cool mountain climate that impart exceptional character to each bottle. Visitors consistently praise the quality of the wines and the variety of experiences available, from guided tastings and live music to cozy afternoons on the Tuscan-style patio surrounded by vineyards. We recently attended a wine dinner here. The family staff, wine and food were spectacular!
With its blend of excellent wine, enchanting scenery, and welcoming hospitality, Linville Falls Winery stands out as one of the must wineries in NC for those seeking an authentic wine experience in the foothills.
Carolina Heritage: Eco-Friendly Excellence
Next, for the sustainably-minded, Carolina Heritage Vineyards stands out as the state’s first USDA Certified Organic vineyard and first solar-powered winery. Set in the heart of the Yadkin Valley, their property teems with native grapes and blueberries—no animal by-products or grains, making their wines vegan and gluten-free. Being that I am gluten free AND appreciate organic farming, this winery is definitely on the list for me of the must see wineries in NC.
Enjoy tastings, a peaceful hiking trail (part of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail), and a stay in their renovated 1920s farmhouse. It’s a place where responsible farming, delicious wine, and tranquility are all poured in every glass.
Piccione Vineyards: Sicilian Roots, Local Soul
Italian sunshine seems to have found a second home in North Carolina at Piccione Vineyards. Founded on Sicilian winemaking roots, Piccione masterfully leans into local terroir with estate-grown reds and whites—think Montepulciano, Vermentino, and Pinot Grigio. Their brand-new venue, La Collina, offers jaw-dropping Blue Ridge views, a sleek event hall, and a buzzworthy wine library.
Live music, food trucks, and weekly events turn this vineyard into more than just a tasting stop—it’s a community gathering, where glasses (and spirits) stay full.
Stony Knoll Vineyards: Tradition & Relaxation
If you crave a laid-back, family-owned feel, Stony Knoll is your go-to. The vineyard is nestled on a Century Farm worked by the same family since 1896. The tasting room—designed like an old-world chateau—overlooks neat rows of vines and distant mountains.
Specializing in a wide range of grapes (Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier, Chardonnay), it’s hard not to linger here on the outdoor porch or at their Wine Lodge, which offers a comfy, hot-tub-enhanced stay for overnighting oenophiles.
Addison Farms Vineyard: Blue Ridge Serenity
Twenty minutes from Asheville, Addison Farms spreads across 55 pristine acres amid almost-360° Blue Ridge mountain views. It’s a family affair, where the emphasis is as much on friendliness as fine wine. Sip Sangiovese or Petit Verdot outdoors, nibble a picnic (bring your own!) and soak in the rustic, panoramic scene making this one of the must see wineries in NC.
It’s not just for wine lovers: those interested in farming, mountain living, or the story behind each bottle are welcome to strike up a conversation with the owners, who invite you into both their story and their scenery.
Shadow Springs Vineyard: Beautiful Scenery & Big Reds
Over in Hamptonville, Shadow Springs Vineyard captures a loyal following thanks to its warm hospitality, pretty views, and a diverse lineup of reds and whites. Visitors rave about their Dark Shadow (a red with a twist), Seyval Blanc, and a fun selection of unique blends. Inside, you’ll find a spacious tasting bar; prefer to lounge? Head out and enjoy a glass beside the pond or on the sun-drenched patio.
Groups love it for celebrations, laid-back afternoons, or sampling a surprisingly good house-made sparkling wine. Just another reason to take a ride and visit one of the must see wineries in NC.
Overmountain Vineyards: Tryon Foothills Magic
Southwest in scenic Polk County, Overmountain Vineyards is a 70-acre family-run paradise. What sets OMV apart? Tasting room experiences (by reservation only) in a cozy cottage overlooking the Tryon Foothills, a rare focus on French varietals, and a grown-up-only vibe for those seeking a peaceful escape.
Extend your visit by staying in one of their luxury villas right on the property, and come during blueberry season—yes, pick-your-own berries are real here! The calm, hospitality, and lovingly crafted wines make every visit a special one, making this one of the must see wineries in NC.
Davesté Vineyards: Wine, Art, and Waterfalls
Tucked near Lake Norman, Davesté Vineyards combines wine, art, and a dose of outdoor fun. The 60-acre property boasts walking trails, a gentle waterfall, and a breezy tasting room/art gallery. Sample their award-winning wines (double gold medal alert!), or grab a craft beer if you’re feeling different. Frequent live music and an on-site restaurant round out the fun, making this one of the must see wineries in NC.
Round Peak Vineyards: Mountain Views, Bold Wines
Near Mount Airy, Round Peak Vineyards is a must for outdoorsy wine lovers and pet parents. Their scenic property offers panoramic mountain vistas, resident dogs, wine slushies in summer, and a fun selection of dry reds, whites, and even port-style wines. Bring your own snacks, settle in at a picnic table, and soak it all up with live music or a lawn game. They’re the recipe for a perfect, casual afternoon surrounded by hills, friends, fur kids, and great vino.
Parker-Binns Vineyard: Southern Hospitality
Finish your foothills adventure at Parker-Binns Vineyard, renowned for its friendly staff and “come-as-you-are” mindset. Located in Mill Spring, the rolling estate features a gorgeous patio with mountain views, Southern BBQ and burgers from their Burger Barn, and a family of free-roaming chickens making this another one of the must see wineries in NC. The wine selection shines with local takes on Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and more.
It’s hard to visit without making new friends—whether they’re the owners, regulars, or fellow road-trippers, you’ll leave with stories, smiles, and (most likely) a bottle or three for the car ride home.
Tips for Your Wine Trail Adventure
Plan ahead: Some wineries require reservations for tastings or tours, especially for larger groups.
Mix & match: Each winery offers something unique—from estate reds to organic whites.
Pack a picnic: Many vineyards encourage you to bring snacks or buy food on-site for the perfect pairing.
Pace yourself: Enjoy a full day—or even a weekend—hopping between wineries. Consider overnight stays or designated drivers.
Ask questions: Owners and staff are brimming with knowledge and love to share about the winemaking process and local history.
The North Carolina foothills are proof that you don’t have to travel far for wine country charm and adventure. Whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned sipper, these wineries offer a truly local, laid-back, and memorable escape. Raise a glass, breathe in the mountain air, and discover why this hidden corner of North Carolina deserves to be on every wine lover’s bucket list.
Cheers to your next great adventure!
If you liked this blog, then check out this one: Things to do during a wedding weekend in NC
Planning a wedding near Charlotte, North Carolina? Redbird Ridge Estate is a stunning white wedding venue that perfectly combines timeless Southern charm with modern elegance. Set on 72 acres of rolling pastures, creeks, a pond, and breathtaking mountain views at the base of Barrett Mountain, this beautiful estate offers versatile indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for ceremonies and receptions accommodating up to 150 guests. The elegant white venue features stunning white interior and sparkling chandeliers, creating a chic and inviting atmosphere for your special day. Onsite lodging is available for parties as large as 22 people, with charming historic farmhouse and cabin accommodations that blend rustic character with modern comfort. With dedicated bridal and groom suites and attentive, personalized service, Redbird Ridge Estate ensures a seamless and unforgettable wedding experience.
Contact Us to schedule your personal tour at Redbird Ridge Estate!
For more wedding inspiration, planning tips, and engagement advice, be sure to follow Redbird Ridge Estate:
Thanks so much for stopping by our blog! We hope you found this information helpful. We’re passionate about using our blog to shine a light on locally owned wedding venues. These venues often bring a higher level of expertise, service, and dedication to your big day. Plus, with less staff turnover than corporate or investor-owned venues, they’re able to provide a more personal touch. As you plan your wedding, we’d love for you to consider a locally owned venue like ours! Check out this Wedding Venue Map to discover amazing locally owned venues across the country. And a big shout out to all the incredible locally owned wedding venues out there!
How to Choose a Local Charlotte Wedding Dress Shop: The Ultimate Guide
Bride in wedding gown on burgundy couch at local Charlotte wedding venue
The ultimate guide to choosing a local wedding dress shop in Charlotte
As a Charlotte wedding venue owner of Redbird Ridge Estate, I have connections with multiple local Charlotte bridal shops. Every season, the owners of these shops bring in the most recent trending dresses and they work hard to not only accommodate brides and their parties, but to make it a unique and personal experience for them. When I was looking for my wedding dress four years ago, I went to my own local bridal shop, knowing they would treat me like a queen!
If you're searching for the best wedding venue in the Charlotte area or a versatile and accommodating event space in Alexander County, make sure you check out Redbird Ridge Estate.
Finding your dream wedding dress is one of the most memorable moments of your wedding journey. While the excitement is undeniable, the process can feel overwhelming with so many options available. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to shop for your gown. Choosing a local wedding dress shop offers unique advantages, from personalized service to supporting your community. Here’s an in-depth guide to help you confidently select the perfect local Charlotte bridal boutique for your big day.
1. The Benefits of Shopping Local
When you choose a local bridal shop, you’re not just purchasing a dress, you’re investing in a personalized experience and supporting small businesses in your community. Local boutiques often provide one-on-one attention, private appointments, and expert guidance, ensuring you feel valued and cared for throughout the process. Shopping local also means building relationships with professionals who are deeply connected to your area, which can lead to helpful recommendations for other wedding vendors and a more seamless planning experience.
2. Start with Research
Before booking appointments, spend time researching bridal boutiques in your area. Use trusted Facebook wedding groups to ask for reviews and get a sense of other brides’ experiences. Look for feedback on customer service, dress selection, and the overall atmosphere. Pay attention to how boutiques respond to both positive and negative reviews. It can reveal a lot about their commitment to customer satisfaction.Tips for Researching:Browse local wedding dress shop websites and social media for photos, designer lists, and store policies.Take note of any special services, such as alterations, customizations, or exclusive designer collections.Ask recently married friends or family for recommendations and firsthand insights.
3. Consider Your Style and Budget.
Every bride has a unique vision for her wedding look. As you narrow down your options, choose shops that align with your personal style and budget. Some wedding dress shops specialize in high-end designer gowns, while others offer a wider range of price points.Questions to Ask Yourself:Does the shop carry the designers or styles you’re interested in?Is their price range compatible with your budget?Do they offer sample sales or trunk shows for additional savings?
A beautiful example below from a local Charlotte bridal studio, Classic Bride Bridal Studio, in Huntersville. Meagan Kelly is their in-house designer. They offer stunning designs that seamlessly blend sophistication and affordability. Their curated collection ensures every bride finds the perfect gown without compromising style or budget. Enjoy an exclusive one-on-one bridal stylist experience, tailored to your unique vision.
4. Evaluate Inventory and Selection
A great Charlotte bridal shop should offer a variety of styles, sizes, and silhouettes to ensure you have plenty of options to try on. Check if the boutique has a curated selection that matches your taste-whether you’re looking for classic elegance, modern chic, or bohemian romance.
What to Look For:
A diverse inventory that feels inspiring, not overwhelming.
Sample sizes that accommodate a range of body types.
Accessories and bridesmaid options for a one-stop shopping experience.
5. Book a Private Appointment
Most local Charlotte bridal shops operate by appointment to give each bride dedicated time and attention. Booking in advance ensures you get a stylist’s undivided focus and a relaxed, stress-free environment. Consider scheduling your visit on a weekday for a quieter, more intimate experience.
What to Expect:
A welcoming atmosphere with private dressing rooms and comfortable seating for your guests.
Stylists who listen to your vision, ask thoughtful questions, and offer expert recommendations without being pushy.
The opportunity to try on a variety of gowns and see how they look in different lighting settings.
6. Assess Customer Service
Personalized service is a hallmark of a great local bridal shop. From your first inquiry to your final fitting, you should feel supported and celebrated. Look for boutiques where consultants are attentive, patient, and genuinely invested in helping you find “the one”.
Signs of Excellent Service:
Consultants who listen carefully and respect your preferences and budget.
A willingness to accommodate special requests or hold a dress while you make your decision.
Onsite alteration services for a perfect fit.
Another Charlotte local wedding dress shop, C Lovely Bridal in Hickory, can accommodate all budgets and has new designer dresses in weekly to offer brides. C Lovely Bridal offers a collection of wedding dresses that offers designer brands both off-the-rack and orderable gowns. All appointments are "Private" in a friendly and inviting atmosphere.
7. Ask the Right Questions
To make the most of your appointment, come prepared with questions that will help you understand the shop’s offerings and policies:
What designers and styles do you carry?
Are alterations included, and what is the estimated cost?
What is the timeline for ordering and receiving a dress?
Can dresses be customized or ordered in different sizes/colors?
What is your policy on photography during appointments?
Are there cancellation or rescheduling fees?
8. Bring the Right People
Your entourage can make or break your dress shopping experience. Bring a small group of trusted friends or family members whose opinions you value and who will support your vision. Too many voices can be overwhelming, so keep it intimate for a more enjoyable experience. Consider bringing a trusted seamstress who knows how to alter wedding dresses as this could be very costly in the long run. She can assess the type of dress that fits your body style where minimal alterations are required.
Ladies of Lineage, located at Philips Place in Charlotte, holds the belief that a Bride's wedding dress experience should be as special and individual as the love she is celebrating. They have a highly personalized and refined process for brides seeking to elevate their wedding. They feature an unparalleled commitment to delivering comprehensive, individualized support from engagement to wedding day, guaranteeing that each bride experiences unwavering guidance in her pursuit of the perfect gown.
9. Be Open-Minded and Take Notes
While it’s great to have a vision, be open to trying on different styles and listening to your stylist’s suggestions. Sometimes, the dress you least expect becomes the one you fall in love with. Take notes or photos (if allowed) to help you remember your favorites and compare them later.
10. Support Your Community
When you shop at a local Charlotte bridal boutique, you’re not only getting a better experience-you’re also helping small businesses thrive and ensuring future brides have access to the same personalized service. Your support strengthens your community and creates lasting memories.
Say “Yes” to the Local Experience
Choosing a local wedding dress shop is about more than finding a beautiful gown-it’s about enjoying a personalized, memorable journey that celebrates your individuality. By researching boutiques, considering your style and budget, and prioritizing exceptional service, you’ll set yourself up for a joyful and stress-free dress shopping experience. Book your appointment at a local bridal boutique and discover the magic of saying “yes” to your dream dress, surrounded by the warmth and expertise of your community.
Ready to start your search? Reach out to your favorite local bridal shop today and take the first step toward finding the dress of your dreams!
Planning a wedding near Charlotte, North Carolina? Redbird Ridge Estate is a stunning white wedding venue that perfectly combines timeless Southern charm with modern elegance. Set on 72 acres of rolling pastures, creeks, a pond, and breathtaking mountain views at the base of Barrett Mountain, this beautiful estate offers versatile indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for ceremonies and receptions accommodating up to 150 guests. The elegant white venue features stunning white interior and sparkling chandeliers, creating a chic and inviting atmosphere for your special day. Onsite lodging is available for parties as large as 22 people, with charming historic farmhouse and cabin accommodations that blend rustic character with modern comfort. With dedicated bridal and groom suites and attentive, personalized service, Redbird Ridge Estate ensures a seamless and unforgettable wedding experience.
Contact Us to schedule your personal tour at Redbird Ridge Estate!
For more wedding inspiration, planning tips, and engagement advice, be sure to follow Redbird Ridge Estate:
Thanks so much for stopping by our blog! We hope you found this information helpful. We’re passionate about using our blog to shine a light on locally owned wedding venues. These venues often bring a higher level of expertise, service, and dedication to your big day. Plus, with less staff turnover than corporate or investor-owned venues, they’re able to provide a more personal touch. As you plan your wedding, we’d love for you to consider a locally owned venue like ours! Check out this Wedding Venue Map to discover amazing locally owned venues across the country. And a big shout out to all the incredible locally owned wedding venues out there!
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