8 best wineries Elkin NC + top things to do [ 2024]

Welcome to Funky Fresh Travels!

My 6 months tour in the US went well, and I decided to dedicated that time to my knowledge and in the discovery of wine . So I went to many wine regions al over the country ( see my other articles ) and meet wine makers and tasted absolutely incredible wine .

In my opinion, the region setting is very important too and Elkin was definitively great !

Get ready ! We’re diving into the heart of North Carolina’s wine country to explore the best wineries in Elkin, NC. Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Elkin is a hidden gem in the Yadkin Valley wine region. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a fun day trip, these wineries offer something for everyone. So, grab your glass and let’s get started !

08 Best Wineries in Elkin, NC

1. Elkin Creek Vineyard

Elkin Creek Vineyard is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Yadkin Valley. This family-owned vineyard offers a rustic getaway with creek-side cabins that provide modern conveniences. Imagine sipping on a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon by a stone fireplace or enjoying a gourmet brick oven pizza on a Sunday afternoon. The vineyard also hosts special food and wine pairing events and is a popular wedding venue. Don’t forget to sign up with your email address to receive news and updates!

Check their website HERE

2. Grassy Creek Vineyard and Winery

Set in the heart of the Yadkin Valley AVA, Grassy Creek Vineyard is housed in a historic dairy barn, with a tasting room in a converted horse stable. The vineyard offers excellent wine selections, including award-winning varietals harvested from their own vines. The property is beautiful, making it a great place for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon. They also have a wine club, so you can enjoy their delicious wines delivered right to your door.

Check their website HERE

3. Shelton Vineyards

Shelton Vineyards is one of the largest family-owned estates in North Carolina. Located just an hour north of Charlotte, this vineyard offers a wide range of wine tastings and tours. The tasting room is spacious, and the vineyard often hosts special events and live music. It’s a great spot for a day trip or a special occasion.

Check their website HERE

4. Raffaldini Vineyards

If you’re a fan of Italian-style wines, Raffaldini Vineyards is your go-to destination. This vineyard brings classic Tuscan charm to the Yadkin Valley, offering dry Italian-style wines that are simply exquisite. The vineyard is also known for its stunning views and beautiful vineyard setting, making it a special spot for wine lovers.

Check their website HERE

5. Round Peak Vineyards

Round Peak Vineyards is the northernmost vineyard in the Yadkin Valley, sitting at an elevation of 1300 feet. This family-owned vineyard offers a variety of wines, including Petit Verdot and other dry wines. The vineyard also hosts live music events and has a picnic area, making it a fun and relaxing destination.

Check their website HERE

6. Old North State Winery

Located in historic downtown Elkin, Old North State Winery offers a unique experience with its collaboration with world-renowned chef Chris Wishart. The winery provides an ultimate lunch and dinner experience, paired with their excellent wines. It’s a great place to enjoy delicious wines and gourmet food in a charming setting.

Check their website HERE

7. Adagio Vineyards

Adagio Vineyards is a musical term meaning “slowly with passion,” which perfectly describes the approach of the owners. They create outstanding wines and beautiful violins, making this vineyard a unique and artistic destination. The vineyard often hosts classical music events, adding a touch of elegance to your wine tasting experience.

Check their website HERE

8. Carolina Heritage Vineyard and Winery

Carolina Heritage Vineyard is known for its commitment to organic and sustainable farming practices. This family-owned vineyard offers a variety of wines made from heritage vines. The vineyard is a great place to relax and enjoy the highest quality wines in a beautiful setting.

Check their website HERE

Bonus: Elkin Vine Line

For those who want to explore multiple wineries without the hassle of driving, the Elkin Vine Line is a hop-on-hop-off wine tour company that operates on preset routes. You can choose from six different lines, each connecting to four wineries. It’s a fantastic way to experience the best of Yadkin Valley wine country.

Best activities in Elkin , NC

Ok, I will be very honest … There is not that much to do . So I compiled what I did in 4 days … Following my researches

1. Wine Tastings and Vineyard Tours

OF COURSE, THE ACTIVITY NUMBER ONE ( See my listing above )

Elkin is a wine lover’s paradise, and no visit would be complete without exploring its renowned wineries. Start your journey at **Elkin Creek Vineyard**, where you can enjoy wine tastings in a relaxing indoor and outdoor tasting room with stunning mountain views. Don’t miss the chance to stay in their cozy creek-side cabins, complete with a stone fireplace for those chilly evenings.

Next, hop on the **Elkin Vine Line**, a hop-on-hop-off wine tour company that makes it easy to visit multiple wineries without the hassle of driving. Choose from routes like the red line or gold line to explore the best of Yadkin Valley wineries.

2. Discover Historic Downtown Elkin

Stroll through historic downtown Elkin and soak in the charm of this quaint town. You’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic sites to explore. Make sure to visit the Old North State Winery , where you can enjoy delicious wines and gourmet brick oven pizzas. The downtown area often hosts special events and live music, making it a vibrant spot to spend an afternoon or evening.

3. Outdoor Adventures

For those who love the great outdoors, Elkin has plenty to offer. The Yadkin River is perfect for kayaking, fishing, or simply enjoying a peaceful riverside picnic. If hiking is more your style, head to Stone Mountain , just a short drive from Elkin. This beautiful park offers stunning views, challenging trails, and even a historic grist mill to explore.

Another must-visit is Carter Falls , one of Elkin’s newest public access waterfalls. It’s a great spot for a refreshing swim or a scenic hike.

4. Explore More Wineries

Elkin is home to some of the most prominent wine regions on the East Coast. Grassy Creek Vineyard is a must-see, known for its award-winning wines and beautiful property. They even have hiking trails right on their grounds, so you can enjoy a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon after a scenic walk.

Shelton Vineyards is another top destination, offering a wide range of wine selections and special events throughout the year. For a taste of Italy in North Carolina, visit Raffaldini Vineyards , where you can savor dry Italian-style wines in a stunning vineyard setting.

5. Music and Cultural Experiences

Elkin has a rich cultural scene, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy live music and the arts. **Adagio Vineyards** is a unique spot where you can not only taste excellent wines but also learn about violin making and enjoy classical music performances. The vineyard’s name, a musical term meaning “slowly with passion,” perfectly captures the experience you’ll have here.

For more live music, check out the Music Itinerary offered by Explore Elkin, which highlights the best spots for live entertainment in town.

6. Foodie Adventures

No trip to Elkin would be complete without indulging in some local cuisine. The town boasts a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to gourmet restaurants. Food trucks are a common sight, offering everything from BBQ to tacos, making it easy to grab a delicious bite on the go.

For a more upscale dining experience, head to **downtown Mount Airy**, just a short drive from Elkin. Here, you’ll find a range of restaurants serving up everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine.

7. Scenic Drives and Day Trips

Elkin’s location at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains makes it an ideal starting point for scenic drives and day trips. The Yadkin Valley Scenic Byway offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, farmlands, and mountain vistas. For a longer adventure, take a drive along the **Blue Ridge Parkway**, one of the most scenic routes in the United States.

8. Unique Local Experiences

Finally, don’t miss out on some of Elkin’s unique local experiences. Visit the Carolina Heritage Vineyard , where you can taste wines made from 100% certified organic grapes. Or, stop by Slightly Askew Winery , known for its creative use of local juices to produce both sweet and dry wines.

For a touch of history, explore the site of a historic grist mill at Elkin Creek Vineyard, where you can learn about the area’s rich heritage while enjoying a glass of wine.

Conclusion

Elkin, NC, is a wine lover’s paradise with its diverse range of wineries and beautiful settings. From the rustic charm of Elkin Creek Vineyard to the Tuscan elegance of Raffaldini Vineyards, there’s something for everyone. So, whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, make sure to visit these top wineries in Elkin, NC. Cheers to your next wine adventure!

Feel free to share your experiences or ask any questions in the comments below. And don’t forget to subscribe to Funky Fresh Travels for more exciting travel stories and tips!

WHO AM I ?

Hello !

I am Eric, a French Australian citizen based between Australia, Asia and Bali and I love to travel and experience the world. I generally like outdoor activities, wellness, great food and venues , party and real local adventures ! I am a Yoga practitioner and fitness lover

I created this blog because I love to travel and I want to share my experiences with others. I’ve been traveling since I was a child, and I’ve been to over 50 countries. I’ve seen some amazing things and met some amazing people, and I want to help others experience the same things.

I believe that travel is one of the best ways to learn about the world and about yourself. When you travel, you’re forced to step outside of your comfort zone and experience new things. You learn about different cultures, different religions, and different ways of life. You also learn about yourself, your strengths, and your weaknesses.

Travel can also be a great way to make new friends. When you’re traveling, you’re surrounded by people from all over the world, and you’re all in the same boat. You’re all there to explore and experience new things, and that can create a bond between people.

Let’s connect together !

I hope that my travel blog will inspire others to travel and to see the world. I also hope that it will help people to learn about different cultures and to become more open-minded.