Best 9 Wineries in Asheville NC: A Guide to the Top Vineyards in the Area
Asheville, North Carolina is known for its stunning mountain views, charming downtown area, and thriving food and drink scene. One of the highlights of the area’s beverage offerings is its wineries. With a variety of vineyards and wineries to choose from, Asheville is a great destination for wine lovers.
Visitors to Asheville can explore a range of wineries, from small family-owned vineyards to larger operations. The Biltmore Estate Winery is a must-visit for those interested in history and grandeur, as it is located on the grounds of the largest house in the US. Other popular wineries include Addison Farms Vineyard and Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards. Many of these wineries offer tastings, tours, and events throughout the year.
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking for a relaxing afternoon activity, Asheville’s wineries offer something for everyone. From the stunning mountain views to the delicious wines, it’s easy to see why Asheville’s wineries are considered some of the best in the region.
Historical Background of Wineries in Asheville
Asheville, North Carolina, has a rich history of winemaking dating back to the 19th century. The region’s temperate climate and fertile soil have made it an ideal location for growing grapes and producing high-quality wines.
One of the most notable wineries in Asheville is the Biltmore Estate, founded by George Vanderbilt in 1895. The estate spans over 8,000 acres and includes a 250-acre vineyard, making it one of the largest private vineyards in the country. The Biltmore Winery produces a variety of award-winning wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot.
The Vanderbilt legacy continues to influence the winemaking industry in Asheville to this day. Many local wineries have adopted sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, inspired by the estate’s commitment to conservation and preservation.
In the early 20th century, Prohibition dealt a significant blow to the winemaking industry in Asheville. However, with the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, winemaking began to make a comeback in the region.
Today, Asheville is home to over 20 wineries, each with its unique style and approach to winemaking. From small, family-owned vineyards to large commercial operations, there is a winery in Asheville to suit every taste and budget.
Top Wineries in Asheville
Asheville is a city that boasts of a vibrant wine culture, with numerous wineries offering a variety of wines to satisfy the palates of wine lovers. Here are some of the top wineries in Asheville that are worth exploring:
Biltmore Estate Winery
Biltmore Estate Winery is a must-visit winery in Asheville, located at the heart of the Biltmore Estate. The winery offers a variety of wines that are handcrafted from grapes grown in the estate’s vineyards. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the winery and enjoy wine tastings. The winery also offers guided tours that allow visitors to learn more about the winemaking process.
Website: https://www.biltmore.com/
Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, NC 28803, United States
Pleb Urban Winery
Pleb Urban Winery is a unique winery located in downtown Asheville. The winery offers a variety of wines made from locally sourced grapes. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, take a winery tour, or participate in winemaking classes. The winery also has a wine bar where visitors can relax and enjoy a glass of wine.
Website: https://www.pleburbanwinery.com/
Address: 289 Lyman St, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
Burntshirt Vineyards
Burntshirt Vineyards is a family-owned winery located in Hendersonville, just a short drive from Asheville. The winery offers a variety of wines made from grapes grown on the estate’s vineyards. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, take a tour of the winery, or relax on the winery’s terrace and enjoy the beautiful views.
Website: https://www.burntshirtvineyards.com/
Address: 2695 Sugarloaf Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792, United States
Point Lookout Vineyards
Point Lookout Vineyards is a winery located in Hendersonville that offers a variety of wines made from grapes grown in the estate’s vineyards. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, take a tour of the winery, or relax on the winery’s patio and enjoy the stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Website: https://pointlookoutvineyards.com/
Address: 408 Appleola Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792, United States
Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards
Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards is a winery located in Hendersonville that offers a variety of wines made from grapes grown on the estate’s vineyards. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, take a tour of the winery, or relax on the winery’s deck and enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains.
Website: https://www.saintpaulfarms.com/
Address: 588 Chestnut Gap Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792, United States
Addison Farms Vineyard
Addison Farms Vineyard is a family-owned winery located in Leicester, just a short drive from Asheville. The winery offers a variety of wines made from grapes grown on the estate’s vineyards. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, take a tour of the winery, or relax on the winery’s patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains.
Website: https://www.addisonfarms.net/
Address: 4005 New Leicester Hwy, Leicester, NC 28748, United States
Marked Tree Vineyard
Marked Tree Vineyard is a boutique winery located in Flat Rock, just a short drive from Asheville. The winery offers a variety of wines made from grapes grown on the estate’s vineyards. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, take a tour of the winery, or relax on the winery’s patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains.
Website: https://www.markedtreevineyard.com/
Address: 623 Deep Gap Rd, Flat Rock, NC 28731, United States
Stone Ashe Vineyards
Stone Ashe Vineyards is a winery located in Marion, just a short drive from Asheville. The winery offers a variety of wines made from grapes grown on the estate’s vineyards. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, take a tour of the winery, or relax on the winery’s patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains.
Website: https://stoneashevineyards.com/
Address: 736 Green Mountain Rd, Hendersonville, NC 28792, United States
Parker-Binns Vineyard
Parker-Binns Vineyard is a winery located in Mill Spring, just a short drive from Asheville. The winery offers a variety of wines made from grapes grown on the estate’s vineyards. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, take a tour of the winery, or relax on the winery’s patio and enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains.
These are just a few of the top wineries in Asheville that are worth exploring. Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or a novice, these wineries offer something for everyone.
Website: https://www.parkerbinnsvineyard.com/
Address: 2275 Whiteside Rd, Mill Spring, NC 28756, United States
Wine Tasting Experience
Wine tasting is an essential part of any winery visit. Asheville’s wineries offer a unique and unforgettable tasting experience that is perfect for wine lovers. Here are some of the sub-sections that you should consider when visiting a winery in Asheville.
Tasting Room Experience
The tasting room is the heart of any winery, and Asheville’s wineries are no exception. The tasting rooms in Asheville are designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for visitors. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and they are always happy to answer any questions you may have about the wine. You can sample a variety of wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Wine and Food Pairing
Wine and food pairing is an art, and Asheville’s wineries are experts at it. Many wineries in Asheville offer food trucks, charcuterie, and snacks to pair with their wines. The food is carefully selected to complement the wine, and the staff is always happy to make recommendations. You can enjoy a delicious meal while sipping on your favorite wine.
Wine Varieties
Asheville’s wineries offer a wide variety of wines, including whites, reds, ciders, and rosés. Some of the most popular wine varieties in Asheville include Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Vidal Blanc, Seyval Blanc, Pinot Noir, Pinot Grigio, and Champagne. You can sample different wines and discover your new favorite.
Special Wine Tours
Asheville’s wineries offer special wine tours that take you behind the scenes of the winemaking process. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will take you through the vineyards, the winery, and the cellar. You will learn about the history of the winery, the winemaking process, and the different types of wine. Some of the most popular wine tours in Asheville include the Behind the Scenes Winery Tour and the Red Wine and Chocolate Tour.
In conclusion, Asheville’s wineries offer a unique and unforgettable wine-tasting experience. Whether you are a wine lover or a novice, you will enjoy sampling different wines, learning about the winemaking process, and trying different food pairings.
Additional Facilities
Outdoor Space
Many wineries in Asheville offer outdoor spaces where visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery while sipping their favorite wines. Some wineries have patios with tables and chairs, while others have picnic areas where visitors can bring their own food and enjoy a picnic lunch. The outdoor spaces are perfect for those who want to enjoy a glass of wine in the fresh air and soak up the sunshine.
Pet-Friendly Wineries
For those who love to travel with their furry friends, there are several pet-friendly wineries in Asheville. These wineries allow dogs on their outdoor patios and picnic areas, so visitors can bring their pets along for the wine-tasting experience. Some wineries even provide water bowls and treats for dogs, making it a fun outing for both humans and their four-legged companions.
Gift Shop
Many wineries in Asheville have gift shops where visitors can purchase wine-related souvenirs and gifts. These shops offer a variety of items, including wine glasses, bottle openers, and wine-themed home decor. Visitors can also purchase bottles of wine to take home as a gift for friends and family. The gift shops are a great way to remember the wine-tasting experience and take a piece of Asheville home with you.
Exploring Beyond Wineries
Asheville, North Carolina, is a city that offers much more than just excellent wineries. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, visit stunning waterfalls, and indulge in the local culinary scene. Here are some of the top places to check out beyond the wineries:
Blue Ridge Mountains
The Blue Ridge Mountains offer breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can hike through the mountains, go on scenic drives, and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Some popular spots to visit in the Blue Ridge Mountains include Mount Mitchell State Park, Chimney Rock State Park, and Grandfather Mountain.
Waterfalls
Asheville is home to many stunning waterfalls that are worth exploring. Some of the most popular waterfalls in the area include Looking Glass Falls, Triple Falls, and Rainbow Falls. Visitors can hike to these waterfalls and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Culinary Scene
Asheville has a thriving culinary scene with many excellent restaurants and cafes. Visitors can indulge in local favorites like barbecue, biscuits and gravy, and craft beer. Some popular spots to check out include Buxton Hall Barbecue, Sunny Point Cafe, and Asheville Brewing Company.
Whether visitors are looking to explore the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, visit stunning waterfalls, or indulge in the local culinary scene, Asheville has something for everyone.
Conclusion
Asheville, NC is home to a variety of wineries that offer visitors a unique and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re looking for a family-owned winery, multi-award-winning wines, or handcrafted vintages, Asheville has something for everyone.
One of the top wineries in Asheville is Stone Ashe Vineyard, which boasts rows of vines climbing up a steep mountain slope. This vineyard produces high-quality fruit that is hand-worked to create premium wines. Another great option is Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, which offers a unique wine-tasting experience on a working farm. Visitors can tour the vineyards and orchards before settling in for a tasting of delicious wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Riesling.