After four wineries, one mountain summit, and a gallery of tasting notes, our Western NC wine trail came to a close with a car full of bottles and a head full of memories. Each stop had its own rhythm—from minimalist…
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.…
Before our final tasting, we took a scenic detour to Pilot Mountain, one of North Carolina’s most iconic landmarks. Rising 2,421 feet above sea level, this quartzite monadnock has guided travelers for centuries. The Saura tribe called it Jomeokee, meaning…
A short drive brought us to Cellar 4201, tucked along Apperson Road—and yes, that’s where the name comes from: 4201 is their address. This boutique vineyard and tasting room sits just outside East Bend, styled like a cozy wine cellar…
Driving deeper into East Bend, NC, we rolled up to Divine Llama Vineyards—equal parts tasting room, gift shop, llama farm, and vibe. Home to the largest llama farm in the Southeast, this spot doubles down on its theme in all…
Our trail began at Medaloni Cellars, tucked into the rolling hills just west of Winston-Salem. The drive set the tone—green fields, winding lanes, and a quiet anticipation. Arriving near noon, we found a sprawling interior with rustic wood beams and…
A full-bodied journey through rolling hills, curious varietals, and tasting room tales. Two hours west of Cary, tucked between the Blue Ridge foothills and the Yadkin River, lies one of North Carolina’s best-kept secrets: a wine country bursting with character,…
From the moment we pulled into the Grand Turk Cruise Pier, it was clear: the water here wasn’t just clear—it was crystal cathedral clear. You could see the shadow of the ship printed perfectly across the sandy bottom like some…
We docked in San Juan, Puerto Rico, greeted by colorful façades, warm trade winds, and an itinerary packed with culture and cocktails. Our journey began aboard a tour bus that snaked around the bay toward the iconic Bacardi Distillery, but…
We docked at the busy but welcoming Havensight Cruise Pier in St. Thomas, where the morning unfurled like a lazy postcard. With two hours to wander, we browsed the nearby duty-free shops (sparkle, swag, and temptation), then settled in for…
