Vines & Views: A Private Two-Vineyard Escape from Asheville
A half-day of mountain vistas, crisp pours, and easygoing countryside just outside Asheville
The morning begins with the Blue Ridge lifting its shoulders into a soft, hazy sky. Asheville eases awake—coffee steam curling from corner cafés, mountain light spilling onto brick facades—while you and your small crew slide into a private vehicle bound for wine country. Within minutes the city thins to rolling pasture and orchard, then to hills ribbed with trellised vines. The mountains keep silent watch; rows of grapes reach toward the sun as if they, too, are eager to get going.
Trail Wisdom
Hydrate Between Pours
Carry a reusable water bottle and alternate water with tastings to stay sharp and enjoy flavors more fully.
Dress for Mountain Swings
Weather shifts quickly at elevation—bring a light layer even on warm days and sunscreen for open decks.
Weekday Wins
Book a weekday slot for quieter tasting rooms and more one-on-one time with staff.
Snack Strategy
Confirm food options ahead; many wineries offer light bites or allow picnics between flights.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Jump Off Rock overlook near Laurel Park for sweeping Blue Ridge views
- •Bearwallow Mountain’s open meadow summit for a short pre- or post-tour hike
Wildlife
White-tailed deer, Red-tailed hawks
Conservation Note
Stay on designated paths and avoid stepping between vine rows; the soils are carefully managed and compact easily. Pack out all picnic waste.
Henderson County’s Crest of the Blue Ridge became an AVA in 2019—the first in Western North Carolina—reflecting distinctive elevation and soils.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Budbreak views, Mild temperatures, Wildflowers
Challenges: Occasional showers, Variable winds
Vines wake and hillsides green up. Expect cool mornings, pleasant afternoons, and a higher chance of light rain.
summer
Best for: Long daylight, Lush vineyard photos, Patio lounging
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Afternoon thunderstorms
Bluebird mornings often give way to quick pop-up storms—bring sun protection and a light rain layer.
fall
Best for: Harvest energy, Foliage color, Crisp air
Challenges: Busier weekends, Bees/wasps near fruit
Peak color and picking season. Expect cooler evenings and book ahead for weekend tastings.
winter
Best for: Quiet tasting rooms, Clear mountain views
Challenges: Limited hours, Cold winds
A serene time for focused tastings. Dress warmly; some outdoor spaces are breezy but beautiful.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Government-Issued ID (21+)Essential
Required for tastings at all wineries—no exceptions.
Comfortable Walking ShoesEssential
Tasting rooms and vineyard paths may include gravel or gentle slopes.
Reusable Water BottleEssential
Staying hydrated enhances tasting and keeps you comfortable between pours.
Light Jacket or Wrap
Mountain weather shifts quickly; a layer keeps patio time comfortable in shoulder seasons.
Common Questions
Are tasting fees included in the tour price?
Tasting flights are typically paid at each winery; plan to purchase them on-site unless otherwise noted at booking.
Is transportation provided?
Yes. This is a private tour with transportation included for up to six adults (21+).
Can guests under 21 join?
No. All participants must be 21 or older to join this experience.
Which vineyards will we visit?
The itinerary features two acclaimed wineries near Asheville, selected based on availability, season, and your preferences.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours run rain or shine; in the event of severe weather impacting operations, rescheduling or refunds follow the operator’s policy.
Is food available during the tour?
Many wineries offer light bites, and some allow picnics. Check in advance to plan snacks or lunch between tastings.
What to Pack
Government-issued ID to verify you’re 21+; comfortable walking shoes for gravel paths and vineyard slopes; a reusable water bottle to pace tastings; a light jacket or wrap for breezy terraces at elevation.
Did You Know
Henderson County’s Crest of the Blue Ridge became an American Viticultural Area in 2019—the first AVA in Western North Carolina—thanks to its elevation, drainage, and cool nights that help preserve acidity in grapes.
Quick Travel Tips
Book weekday tours for quieter tasting rooms; eat a hearty breakfast and plan a snack between wineries; bring a card for tasting fees and bottle purchases; arrive a few minutes early for pickup to maximize vineyard time.
Local Flavor
Pair the tour with a reservation at Cúrate for standout Spanish tapas downtown, or head to Burial Beer Co.’s Forestry Camp for wood-fired plates and inventive brews. If you’re south of town, the Sierra Nevada Taproom in Mills River delivers beer gardens, fire pits, and river-walk vibes that stretch the evening just right. For dessert, swing by French Broad Chocolate Lounge for bean-to-bar truffles.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Asheville Regional (AVL), ~20–30 minutes from most vineyards. Pickup: In or near Asheville; confirm at booking. Drive times: Typically 20–45 minutes between city and wineries. Cell service: Generally good on main roads; can be spotty at rural sites. Permits: None required; all guests must be 21+. Payments: Tastings are paid at wineries unless noted.
Sustainability Note
Support local agriculture by purchasing a bottle, using a reusable water bottle, and packing out all picnic waste. Stay off vine rows to protect root zones and soil structure—these living systems are the heart of the wine.