Why This Scenic North Carolina Town Could Soon Be The Next Napa Valley
By Megan Shute|Published October 26, 2018
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Megan Shute
Author
With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
Wine lovers, this one is for you. Did you know that the United States produces more than 800 millions gallons of wine each year, ranking behind only France, Italy, and Spain in total production? While more than 80 percent of that wine is harvested in California’s Napa Valley, North Carolina is surprisingly home to some of the country’s best wineries. In fact, according to the Travel Channel, there is one North Carolina town that just might become the next Napa Valley. Read on to discover which town we’re talking about.
Within an hour’s drive of Asheville, you will find more than a dozen highly-rated wineries worthy of a visit. While the most well-known vineyard is, of course, Biltmore Estate, there are a variety of small, lesser-known vineyards in the area worthy of a visit. Here are some of our favorites:
Burntshirt Vineyards measures in at more than 10,000 square feet and features a crush pad, a laboratory from which to test grapes, special equipment to de-stem the grapes, and a 1,700-square foot barrel room that mimics wine caves you’ll find in European chateaus.
Overmountain Vineyards, a boutique winery nestled on a 70-acre family-owned farm, grows 17 acres of French vinifera primarily focusing on classic red varietals and Petit Manseng, an aromatic white grape that originates from the southwest of France. You will also discover two acres of organically grown blueberries for future winemaking.
A family-owned operation, Silver Fork Winery is home to breathtaking views of the South Mountains best enjoyed on their remarkable patio. Enjoy a meal from their farm to fork eatery or come for one of their stellar indoor or outdoor events held throughout the year.
The vines might not appreciate the scenery at Point Lookout Vineyards, but you sure will. With views that stretch on for nearly 30 miles and wines that will make your mouth water, this vineyard deserves a spot on your bucket list.
Located 17 miles northwest of Asheville, Addison Farms Vineyard is nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and plays host to a variety of events — especially weddings. Stop by for a tasting and tour of the gorgeous farm that features nearly 360-degree panoramic views due to its elevation.
Located in the North Carolina foothills, Lake James Cellars is housed in a renovated textile mill that dates back to 1915. Their wines are magnificent, and they play host to a variety of cool events throughout the year.
Serving up wonderful wines since 2005, Green Creek Winery has become a destination in western North Carolina for wine lovers. Enjoy a bite to eat and the scenic views while you’re here.
Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Mountain Brook Vineyards, where award-winning wines are paired with memorable hospitality and panoramic mountain views. Though this vineyard is small, measuring in at only 7 acres, it’s worth a visit.
14 varieties of wine grapes are grown at the 10-acre Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards. At an elevation of 2,300 to 3,000 feet above sea level, the wines produced here are heavenly.
The award-winning Parker-Binns Vineyard is home to some of the region’s best wines and views. Their blackberry and pea ridge white wines are of particular interest to this writer.
What is your favorite Asheville winery? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below, and then click here to discover the incredible vineyard where you can sip wine with llamas!
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