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 open space, but little in the way of frills: no swag, no treats, and not much conversation from behind the counter. This was a pour-and-explore kind of place.
They offered cabins for rent, and while most visitors sat outside in the heat, we settled into one of the few shaded indoor benches with a view of the hills. The real story here came through the wine—and in our notes, sharpened and curated from every sip.
🍷 The Flight – Tasting Notes
Valvin Muscat 2022 – $11 / $28
Citrus nose with green apple on the palate, crisp and lemon-dry. A refreshingly honest summer wine. Rating: 92
Kerner 2021 – $11 / $28
Grassy nose, pale yellow color. Hints of kiwi and citrus, delicate and dry. Rating: 91
Skin-Contact 2023 – $11 / $29
An “orange wine” crafted by fermenting white grapes with their skins. Rosé-like in color, with a nose of orange zest and bubble gum. Leather took the lead on the palate. Rating: 88
Montepulciano 2023 – $13 / $34
Fermented in stainless steel and served chilled. Light fruit nose, blackberry taste, very subtle tannins. Rating: 90
Petit Verdot 2021 – $13 / $38
Made from 100% Yadkin Valley grapes. Black cherry and licorice notes on the nose, medium tannins, and a rich finish. Rating: 92
Muscadine 2021 – $13 / $38
Pink in color with a surprisingly dry and tart profile. Held classic Muscadine flavor but pulled back the sweetness. Rating: 90
🏞️ Atmosphere
Just off the highway, Medaloni welcome's you to tasting adventures.
Inside, the wood-paneled walls gave a warm but unfinished feel. Despite the lack of amenities, there was beauty in the simplicity: rolling green hills, rustic benches, and the steady buzz of conversation drifting in from outside. You could imagine a night in one of the rental cabins—quiet, vine-framed, and candlelit.
