Traveling the mountains by train from the 1920s to the 1950s had its rewards -- sweet, moist grapes grown in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The surrounding mountains buffered the area, creating the perfect climate for growing grapes. The small town of Tryon was a train stop for the Southern Railway and became a distribution point for "Tryon Grapes."
Two wineries called Polk County their home, but the region became known for its grapes, winning awards as far away as New York and Canada. But the 1920s brought prohibition followed by World War II. By the 1950s, serious competition existed from California grapes - thus, grape growing died out in Polk County.
In the 1990s, 11 vineyards and two wineries were back to harvest the nectar of the vine. The area has also been known to spawn creative artists, drawn to the area by its natural beauty. With this adventure, you will visit 4 wineries. Each will enchant and inspire you with the fulfillment of seeing their creators' dreams come to fruition. If you have time and energy, you will end day two on a beautiful secluded road that skirts the Green River and wind your way up the mountain to a charming village, then end the day visiting a beautiful waterfall.
Your first stop is Overmountain Vineyards & Winery, a family-owned artisanal winery and commercial vineyard. While the tasting might not be complimentary, it is well worth the stop. The vineyards were planted on hillsides to produce low yields with high-quality fruit.
The winery takes this wonderful fruit and creates handcrafted wines. Overmountain Vineyards features an intimate tasting room with a wraparound porch overlooking 18 acres of vineyards and breathtaking mountain views.
Frank and Lita Lilly planted Overmountain Vineyards in 2002. Years later, their whole family is involved with their daughter, Lily, becoming the Winemaker.
Learn more on their website: Overmountain Vineyards
Russian Chapel Hills Winery, located in Columbus, NC, is a serene destination nestled in the rolling hills of Green Creek. This family-owned winery offers a selection of dry, European-style wines produced from estate-grown grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and a Muscadine dessert wine. The winery is named after the beautiful St. Anna Chapel on the property, adding a unique charm and spiritual ambiance to the vineyard. Visitors can enjoy tastings on the patio with scenic vineyard views, making it a perfect spot for weddings, private events, or simply a relaxing afternoon.
This will be your last stop! Want more? There are many more wineries in our area!
Mountain Brook Vineyards, located in the Tryon Foothills of North Carolina, offers a stunning blend of scenic beauty, exceptional wines, and warm hospitality. This family-owned vineyard is known for its panoramic mountain views, 75-acre estate, and a variety of wines made from both local and international grapes. Guests can enjoy wine tastings in their beautiful outdoor spaces or cozy indoor areas, complete with fire pits and terraces. The vineyard also hosts live music, movie nights, and other events throughout the year, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and entertainment.