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,…
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…
The Side Trip My girlfriend (now wife) were on our way home from Suffolk VA to Raleigh NC one weekend and decided to detour east along the coast and see the sea. So instead of heading South, we hooked East…
