Yadkin Valley Wine Trail — North Carolina Wine Country

The Yadkin Valley is the South's most celebrated wine region — North Carolina's first designated American Viticultural Area, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Shelton Vineyards, Childress Vineyards, Raffaldini Vineyards, and RayLen Vineyards anchor a growing region producing award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier, and Italian varietals with genuine Southern hospitality. Just 30 minutes from Winston-Salem and an hour from Charlotte. Sip & Summit builds your optimized 4-stop Yadkin Valley wine route in under 10 seconds.

Featured Wineries

  • Shelton Vineyards — North Carolina's largest family-owned winery, a landmark 900-acre estate in Dobson with a stunning inn, restaurant, and award-winning wines.
  • Childress Vineyards — A destination winery with Tuscan-inspired architecture producing acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay in the heart of the valley.
  • Raffaldini Vineyards — A hilltop Italian-style villa estate producing standout Vermentino, Sangiovese, and Montepulciano — the most distinctive stop in the region.
  • RayLen Vineyards — Award-winning estate producing Cabernet Franc, Syrah, and Viognier with a welcoming tasting room and approachable, food-friendly wines.
  • Round Peak Vineyards — An intimate mountain winery producing Bordeaux-style blends and Rhône whites with stunning Blue Ridge foothills views.

Why Sip & Summit

  • 4-stop curated wine day through North Carolina wine country
  • Route built in under 10 seconds
  • Southern hospitality and affordable tasting fees
  • One-tap navigation to each estate
  • Swap any stop if it doesn't fit your day

Frequently Asked Questions

What wineries are in the Yadkin Valley?
The Yadkin Valley AVA includes Shelton Vineyards, Childress Vineyards, Raffaldini Vineyards, RayLen Vineyards, Round Peak Vineyards, and Elkin Creek Vineyard — all in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills.
What wine is the Yadkin Valley known for?
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Viognier, and Syrah — with Raffaldini producing standout Italian varietals including Vermentino and Sangiovese from their hilltop estate.
How far is the Yadkin Valley from Charlotte?
Approximately 30 minutes from Winston-Salem and 1 hour from Charlotte — the South's most accessible wine day trip.
Do Yadkin Valley wineries require reservations?
Most tasting rooms welcome walk-in visitors. Weekend afternoons can get busy at popular estates — Sip & Summit optimizes your route for the best same-day experience.
How much does tasting cost in the Yadkin Valley?
Typically $10–$20 per flight — among the most affordable in any serious American wine region, with warm Southern hospitality included.