Nestled at the base of Pilot Mountain, JOLO Winery is more than a tasting room—it’s a legacy in the making. Founded in 2010 by JW and Kristen Ray, the name “JOLO” is a tribute to their sons, Joey and Logan. What began as a family dream has grown into one of North Carolina’s largest and most decorated wineries, with a reputation for bold blends, sparkling finesse, and a tasting lodge that rivals Napa’s finest.
Though the End Posts Restaurant was fully booked during our visit (note to future tasters: reserve early!), the tasting bar delivered a plush experience. Velvet seats, polished wood, and curated flights made this stop feel like a toast to the entire trail.
🍇 Tasting Flight Notes
Twinkles ’24 – $13 / $47
- Style: Sparkling pink
- Nose: Citrus, berry, mineral
- Palate: White peach, apple, long finish
- Awards: LA Invitational Best in Class, Double Golds galore
- Rating: 92
Golden Hallows ’24 – $10 / $29
- Blend: Pinot Grigio & Sauvignon Blanc
- Nose: Fresh grass
- Palate: Stone, flowers, honeycrisp apple, citrus
- Awards: Multiple Gold Medals, 95 Points
- Rating: 91
Pink ’24 – $10 / $32
- Color: Bright pink with brown tint
- Nose: Strawberry, apple
- Palate: Tart raspberry, grapefruit, crisp
- Awards: Best of Show, Double Gold SF Chronicle
- Rating: 93
JOLOTAGE Reserve ’23 – $17 / $69
- Color: Deep purple
- Nose: Plum
- Palate: Ripe cherry, pepper, rich and smooth
- Awards: Best of Class, 95 Points
- Rating: 93
Carolus XII – $16 / $59
- Style: Red blend honoring NC as the 12th state
- Nose: Fruity
- Palate: Jammy berries, off-sweet, low tannins
- Awards: Platinum & Gold Medals
- Rating: 91
Devil’s Hill – $19 / $74
- Color: Dark reddish-brown
- Nose: Pepper
- Palate: Dark cherry, spice, minerals, grippy tannins
- Awards: Multiple Golds, 93 Points
- Rating: 92
Cuvée Selection – $19 / $75
- Style: Proprietary blend for Premier Club
- Nose: Berry
- Palate: Berry, cocoa, light tannins
- Awards: Double Golds, Gold SF Chronicle
- Rating: 91
🏞️ Atmosphere Snapshot
- Setting: Elegant lodge with velvet seating and mountain views
- Staff: Polished, knowledgeable, and generous with pours
- Legacy: Veteran-owned, family-run, and rooted in billion-year-old soil
- Restaurant: End Posts—ranked among the most romantic and beautiful in the U.S. (next time, book ahead!)
