Once known for tobacco, the Yadkin Valley has transformed into North Carolina’s premier wine country, cultivating European vinifera grapes such as Cabernet Franc, Viognier, and Sangiovese. The valley’s mineral-rich soils and moderate climate yield exceptional complexity, giving rise to wines that regularly win national awards. 

Beyond the vines, the views themselves are worth the trip. Panoramic ridges, charming family-run estates, and winding rural roads invite exploration in every season. Learn more about the region’s roots through our History of the Yadkin Valley Wine Region.

Guided Wine Tours

Guided Wine Tours Let someone else take the wheel while you focus on tasting. Several companies offer guided wine country tours with curated stops, comfortable transport, and insider stories from local guides. Explore itineraries and rates on our Wine Country Tour and Transportation Options guide.

Self-Guided Wine Trails 

For independent travelers, the Swan Creek Wine Trail makes for an ideal self-guided experience just 30 minutes from downtown Winston-Salem. This sub-region within the Yadkin Valley AVA includes family-owned vineyards such as Raffaldini Vineyards, Laurel Gray Vineyards, Shadow Springs Vineyard, and Windsor Run Cellars, all known for distinctive wines and breathtaking mountain views.

Wine Passports and Seasonal Promotions 

Throughout the year, regional partners and wineries offer passport programs where visitors collect stamps and unlock special tastings or discounts. Winter often brings cozy themes like mulled wine weekends and fireside pairings, while spring and summer spotlight outdoor tastings and music-filled patios.

Events and Festivals 

The Yadkin Valley hosts a variety of wine-centric events, from small vineyard celebrations to region-wide festivals. Don’t miss the annual Yadkin Valley Wine Festival in Elkin each May, where dozens of wineries pour their best vintages. Later in the year, the Yadkin Valley Grape Festival celebrates harvest season with tastings, food trucks, and live music. See our full Events Calendar for more seasonal happenings.

Within easy reach of Winston-Salem, several standout wineries have earned national recognition: 

• JOLO Winery & Vineyards (Pilot Mountain): Known for its award-winning reds and fine dining restaurant, JOLO consistently ranks among the top producers in national competitions.
• Shelton Vineyards (Dobson): One of the largest family-owned estate wineries in the Southeast, with 90+ point ratings and an on-site restaurant.
• Childress Vineyards (Lexington): a sprawling estate, wide selection of wines, expansive vineyard, and pastoral setting make this Yadkin Valley favorite a must-see on your tour.
• Raffaldini Vineyards (Ronda, Swan Creek AVA): Italian-style varietals, a hilltop villa setting, and recent Platinum and Best of Show honors at major competitions.
• Laurel Gray Vineyards and Shadow Springs Vineyard (Swan Creek AVA): Longtime local favorites producing medal-winning varietals in a relaxed, pastoral setting.

Discover more in our companion features: 

Stunning Wineries Near Winston-Salem 

Award-Winning Wines Near Winston-Salem

No visit to the region is complete without sampling local flavors alongside a great glass of wine. 

If you find yourself enjoying a rustic fruit or sweet-potato sonker, the heritage dessert from Surry County described as a cross between a cobbler and a deep-dish pie, it pairs beautifully with a dessert wine such as Shelton Vineyards Yadkin Valley Port — the port’s richness and sweet-fruit tones complement the warm juiciness of the sonker. 

In North Carolina BBQ country, pork rules — especially glazed pork belly or slow-smoked pulled pork. For these dishes, a medium-bodied red or a fruit-forward red can balance the richness and smokiness. Pour yourself a glass of lighter-to-medium-bodied red wine (such as a Pinot-style or Grenache-style red) to let the meat shine without overpowering it. Divine Llama- a unique vineyard that pairs agrotourism with high-quality wines- offers two beautiful options for pork pairings: the mildly sweet and fruity Merlina and the easy-sipping, dry Cabernet Franc.

If you love a bit of heat in your meal — a spicy chili, peppery sausage, or Cajun-style dish — go for a crisp white. A refreshing Medaloni Cellars Sauvignon Blanc works well to cut through spice and cleanse the palate, making it a solid choice for boldly seasoned fare. For something seasonal and sweet, consider white-fruit dishes or fruit-glazed pork with an off-dry or lightly aromatic white wine (such as a lightly floral Riesling or a delicate Viognier). These wines’ acidity and fruit-forward character help brighten the richness of meats and desserts alike. 

Whether you are ending the evening with a sweet bite or raising a glass to a smoky dinner, local food and local wine in this region offer delicious opportunities to pair Southern comfort with vineyard craftsmanship.

Combine your wine tasting with outdoor adventure. From kayaking the Yadkin River to hiking Pilot Mountain or exploring farm trails, the Yadkin Valley wine region blends naturally with the outdoors. Find more inspiration in Yadkin Valley Wine + Outdoor Adventures.