A burgeoning wine region located between Asheville, North Carolina, and Greenville, South Carolina, is capturing the attention of wine enthusiasts. Known for its intricate wines made from European grapes, as well as hybrids and native varieties, this area officially recognized as the Crest of the Blue Ridge Henderson County American Viticultural Area since 2019, consists of seven wineries spread across 215 square miles. The region not only produces a variety of wines but also draws increasing numbers of tourists eager to explore its offerings. This designation contributes to the growing allure of wine tourism throughout the region, extending from Virginia's scenic landscapes to Georgia's emerging wine country.
The Crest of the Blue Ridge AVA focuses on cultivating vinifera grapes, common in Europe, alongside experimenting with regional and hybrid varieties. Winemakers leverage the unique Appalachian terroir, characterized by elevation changes and a temperate climate, allowing vines to thrive without excessive growth. Visitors can plan an engaging vineyard tour through transportation options like trolleys or luxury rides, enjoying seasonal festivities such as the Cider, Wine and Dine weekend in May or the vibrant autumn foliage in October.
Distinctive Grapes Cultivated in the Crest of the Blue Ridge AVA
This section delves into the grape varieties grown in the Crest of the Blue Ridge AVA, emphasizing their uniqueness and contribution to the region's wine production. Winemakers here utilize both traditional European grapes and experiment with local hybrids, creating a diverse range of wines. Vineyards such as Stone Ashe specialize in dry wines using Bordeaux clones, while others like Point Lookout Vineyard produce mead alongside their wine selections.
Within the Crest of the Blue Ridge AVA, vintners embrace a variety of grape types to craft distinctive wines. Vinifera grapes, staples in European viticulture, find a home here alongside experimental hybrids and indigenous species. For instance, Stone Ashe Vineyard perched at an altitude of 2,700 feet employs French Bordeaux clones to create elegant dry wines. Meanwhile, Point Lookout Vineyard extends its repertoire beyond conventional wines to include six mead varieties derived from regional honey. Other small, family-run operations like Sawyer Springs Vineyard benefit from the Appalachian terroir, which features subtle variations in elevation and slope within a balanced climate zone. These conditions encourage optimal grape development rather than rapid vine growth, resulting in superior wines that reflect the region’s natural attributes.
Crafting an Ideal Vineyard Tour Experience
For those interested in exploring the Crest of the Blue Ridge Wine Trail, there are numerous ways to organize a memorable day-long excursion. Various transportation services cater to different group sizes and preferences, ensuring a convenient journey between wineries. Additionally, some vineyards offer lodging options for extended stays, enhancing the overall experience.
To fully appreciate the charm of the Crest of the Blue Ridge Wine Trail, travelers have multiple avenues for arranging their visits. Options range from large-group-friendly trolley tours to more personalized Mercedes Sprinter rides offered by Regal Ride. Burnt Shirt Vineyards even provides accommodation, enabling guests to immerse themselves in the vineyard lifestyle by staying overnight. Seasonal events further enrich the experience; Hendersonville hosts the Cider, Wine and Dine weekend every May, showcasing local vineyards and orchards. Autumn, particularly October, offers breathtaking views of fall foliage, adding visual splendor to the trip. Regardless of the chosen season, this relatively nascent yet influential AVA deserves inclusion in any comprehensive Appalachian wine tour itinerary, offering visitors a delightful blend of tradition and innovation in winemaking.