Burntshirt Vineyards
Based in Boone? You are close to some High-Country favorites
If Boone is your home base, you are within easy reach of some of the most scenic sipping spots in the state. This area is ideal for travelers who want mountain views, laid-back tasting experiences, and a mix of cider, wine, and craft beverages.
➤ Mill Camp Wines & Ciders
1584 Tom Jackson Rd, Boone, NC 28607
➤ Grandfather Vineyard & Winery
225 Vineyard Ln, Banner Elk, NC 28604
Set along the Watauga River, Grandfather Vineyard & Winery is one of the most picturesque and playful stops in the region. With live music drifting through the air, chairs set right along the riverbank, and kids splashing in the water, it’s the kind of place where everyone can relax and stay awhile. A strong line up of wines pairs perfectly with the cool mountain breeze, making it an ideal summer escape from the heat of the lowlands. This is what mountain wine visits are all about; they are easy going, scenic, and full of atmosphere.
➤ Appalachian Mountain Brewery & Cidery
163 Boone Creek Dr, Boone, NC 28607
➤ Banner Elk Winery & Villa
60 Deer Run Ln, Banner Elk, NC 28604
➤ Eagles Nest Winery
1965 Old Beech Mountain Rd, Elk Park, NC 28622
Marked Tree Vineyard
Based in Asheville? You will be spoiled for choice
Asheville makes an excellent base for a mountain tasting trip because you can enjoy both downtown tasting rooms and easy day trips to vineyards and cideries nearby. It is a great fit for travelers who want a little city energy mixed with scenic drives and standout pours.
➤ Botanist & Barrel
32 Broadway St, Asheville, NC 28801
With a tasting room in Asheville, Botanist & Barrel brings natural wines and craft ciders into an approachable, downtown setting. Botanist & Barrel is known for pushing boundaries with flavor while still staying rooted in North Carolina agriculture. It is a great choice for those who want to try something different while staying close to the city.
➤ Marked Tree Vineyard
623 Deep Gap Rd, Flat Rock, NC 28731 14 Aston Street Asheville, NC 28801
➤ Noble Cider
356 New Leicester Hwy, Asheville, NC 28806
➤ Addison Farms Vineyard
4005 New Leicester Hwy, Leicester, NC 28748
Linville Falls Winery
Crest of the Blue Ridge AVA
Just a short drive from Asheville, the Crest of the Blue Ridge AVA is one of the most exciting and fast-growing wine regions in North Carolina. Defined by its higher elevations, cooler temperatures, and rolling mountain terrain, this area produces wines with a distinct sense of place that you can taste in every glass. The vineyards here benefit from dramatic day-to-night temperature shifts, helping develop balanced acidity and complex flavors that continue to elevate the region’s reputation.
What makes the Crest of the Blue Ridge AVA especially inviting is the experience beyond the wine. Many wineries in this region offer food options, whether it is small plates, curated pairings, or full dining experiences that allow you to settle in and stay awhile. With 7 vineyards all within 15 mins drive of each other, it is easy to spend an entire afternoon moving from one scenic tasting room to the next, taking in long-range mountain views and discovering new favorites along the way. Whether you are a casual sipper or a dedicated wine lover, this region offers something that feels both approachable and memorable.
Prefer to follow a trail?
If you are looking for a more structured way to explore, the High Country Wine Trail offers a thoughtfully connected path through some of the region’s most scenic wineries. Designed to highlight the beauty and diversity of the High Country, the trail makes it easy to plan your day while still leaving room for discovery. Each stop brings its own personality, from cozy, family-run vineyards to larger properties with sweeping mountain views.
Following the High Country Wine Trail allows you to experience the region at your own pace, whether that means visiting a few select wineries or turning it into a full day adventure. Along the way, you will find more than just great wine. Expect warm hospitality, meaningful conversations, and a deeper connection to the people and places that make North Carolina wine so special. It is an ideal option for those who want to explore with intention while still enjoying the freedom of the journey.
Mill Camp Wines & Ciders
From Boone to Asheville and everywhere in between, the North Carolina mountains offer a wine experience rooted in discovery, connection, and place. Whether you are spending the afternoon at a scenic vineyard, finding a new favorite cider, or following a trail through the High Country, every stop adds something memorable to your trip. It is a region that invites you to slow down, take in the views, and enjoy what is right in front of you.
Before you head out, make sure to download the NC Wine App to easily find wineries, cideries, and tasting rooms near you as you explore. It is the best way to discover hidden gems and plan your route in real time.
If you prefer something to have on hand, you can also request a printed wine map to guide your trip. Simply email us here to have one sent your way and start planning your next North Carolina wine adventure!
