On November 25, 2014, we stepped into the peaceful charm of Davesté Vineyards. The golden hues of late autumn framed the rustic tasting room, where art, music, and wine came together in quiet harmony. It was a day of rich pours, winding trails, and the kind of warmth only found in local places with soul.
Tucked into the rolling hills of Troutman, North Carolina, Davesté Vineyards welcomes visitors with a rustic timber-frame tasting room that doubles as an art gallery. Inside, the space is warm and inviting—wood beams overhead, local artwork lining the walls, and a gentle hum of conversation rising above the clink of glasses. The tasting room opens year-round and often hosts live music, adding to its laid-back charm.
Outside, 60 acres of vineyard, woodland trails, and a small waterfall offer a peaceful escape. On a crisp late-November afternoon, the golden light filters through bare trees, and the scent of oak and fermenting grapes lingers in the air. Whether you’re sipping Viognier by the fireplace or strolling past rows of dormant vines, the setting feels like a quiet celebration of craft and community
We tasted our way through six wines that afternoon, each revealing something different—some subtle, some bold, one unforgettable:
Cabernet Franc 2011 Rating: 88 Some fruit came through—blackberry and raspberry mostly—but it felt shy. This vintage, typical of North Carolina’s lighter-bodied expressions, leans more floral than bold.
Portait 2011 Rating: 89 Mocha was the first thing I noticed, followed by a subtle wisp of smoke. This Bordeaux-style blend has been praised for its balance, and while enjoyable, it didn’t fully stand out for me.
Reserve Chardonnay 2012 Rating: 91 Clean and dry, with crisp green apple leading the charge. A well-structured wine, consistent with Davesté’s oak-aged Chardonnay style that favors orchard fruit with just a touch of toast.
La Brisa (Riesling) Rating: 92 Tropical fruit jumped out immediately. Slightly sweet but balanced with lively acidity—this aligns with later vintages that highlight melon, honeysuckle, and peach.
Malbec 2012 Rating: 92 Smoky and earthy, I could clearly pick out the cigar box and toasted oak. A medium-bodied red that delivers what Davesté’s Malbec is known for: depth without heaviness.
Rkatsiteli 2013 — Our Pick Rating: 92 The grapefruit hit twice—aromatically and on the palate—supported by bold acidity and a long, clean finish. For such a rare varietal in the U.S., Davesté’s version captured the zest and structure this ancient Georgian grape is prized for.
Final Sip From the rustic warmth of the tasting room to the last lingering note of Rkatsiteli, our visit to Davesté Vineyards was a quiet celebration of flavor, craft, and fall’s fading light. Each wine offered a different chapter, but together they told a story—one we were glad to bottle up and bring home.
