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Wineries and Wine Tastings in Raleigh
Are you searching for the best wineries and wine tastings in Raleigh, NC? Here are ten great wineries and wine-tasting rooms in Raleigh to check out.
While North Carolina's wine country might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the area, the Triangle region has quietly cultivated a thriving wine scene that rivals many better-known destinations.
From family-owned vineyards tucked into the rolling Piedmont countryside to sophisticated urban tasting rooms in the heart of downtown, the Capital City offers wine enthusiasts an impressive variety of experiences.
The Southeastern United States is best known for its muscadine grape vine species, which many wineries and vineyards in North Carolina use to make most of their wines. Muscadine wine is typically sweet and can have an acquired taste.
What makes Raleigh's wine scene particularly special is its diversity: you can visit working vineyards where grapes are grown on-site, explore hybrid spaces that combine winemaking with brewing, or settle into curated wine shops offering carefully selected bottles from around the world.
For Raleigh homeowners considering hosting wine-themed gatherings or newcomers looking to meet like-minded residents, these wineries and tasting rooms offer the perfect backdrop.
Let's explore ten exceptional wine destinations that showcase the best of what Raleigh and its surrounding areas have to offer.
Visit these wineries and tasting rooms in Raleigh
1. Childress Vineyards
Address: 1000 Childress Vineyards Rd, Lexington, NC 27295
Located in Lexington, North Carolina (about 90 minutes from Raleigh), Childress Vineyards stands as one of the state's premier winery destinations and is well worth the drive for a special day trip.
Founded by the late NASCAR legend Richard Childress, this stunning 65-acre estate vineyard represents North Carolina winemaking at its finest. The property features European-style architecture, immaculately maintained grounds, and a level of sophistication that rivals Napa Valley wineries.
What sets Childress Vineyards apart is its commitment to producing world-class wines using traditional methods combined with modern technology. The winery focuses on vinifera grapes and produces an impressive range of varietals, from elegant Chardonnays and Viogniers to bold Cabernet Sauvignons and signature blends.
The grand tasting room offers both standard tastings and VIP experiences, while the bistro serves gourmet cuisine designed to complement the wines. The property also hosts concerts, festivals, and special events throughout the year, making it a destination for both wine education and entertainment.
2. Cloer Family Vineyards
Address: 8624 Castleberry Rd, Apex, NC 27523
Cloer Family Vineyards is a local, family-owned winery in Apex. It is also the only family-owned farm in the immediate Triangle area. This winery grows its own grapes and produces its own wines on-site.
Surrounded by a beautiful outdoor setting and providing a tasty wine selection with plenty of southern charm and hospitality, Cloer Family Vineyards is a must-visit for great wine and good times.
Established in 2010, this winery offers a unique and fun experience by taking visitors through every part of the winemaking process. Specializing in muscadine wines, all wines are available for purchase and are $22 per 750mL bottle.
The tasting room experience at Cloer is intimate and educational, with knowledgeable staff who can explain the nuances of each vintage. They offer a rotating selection of wines, from fruit-forward blends to more complex reserve offerings.
For Raleigh residents seeking an authentic, locally-focused wine experience without the commercial polish of larger operations, Cloer Family Vineyards delivers a genuine connection to the land and the craft.
3. ZincHouse Winery and Brewery
Address: 6225 Wake Forest Hwy, Durham, NC 27703
Zinchouse Winery and Brewery is located in Durham, about a 40-minute drive from Downtown Raleigh. It is known as one of the best Triangle wineries and an exciting destination for wine, beer, bourbon, and cigars.
Situated on 87 acres of land, this unique establishment is specifically for guests who are 21 and over. Established in 2022, Zinchouse Winery and Brewery is a newer destination with many fun on-site activities.
The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious, with knowledgeable staff who are passionate about wine. They also offer flights, allowing you to sample multiple wines without committing to a full glass.
Featuring live music, food trucks, fire pits, and a carriage house that hosts wine tastings and private events, this vineyard and brewery always has something exciting going on.
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4. Gregory Vineyards
Address: 275 Bowling Spring Dr #9052, Angier, NC 27501
Gregory Vineyards is located in a rural area of Johnston County, the 106th winery in North Carolina. Specializing in muscadine wines and juices, this winery in Angier is a vineyard and winery, a restaurant, and an event center for weddings and receptions.
The vineyard grows several varieties of grapes, including muscadines and French-American hybrids, and produces wines that range from sweet and approachable to dry and sophisticated.
Tastings are available on the wine porch, which overlooks the lakefront vineyard. Between August and September, visitors can also pick their own muscadine grapes, which is a fun and unique experience.
Gregory Vineyards is known for its welcoming hospitality and reasonable prices, making it an excellent choice for those new to wine tasting or looking for a casual afternoon out. The tasting room showcases their full lineup, and staff members are happy to guide visitors through the different styles and help them discover new favorites.
5. Vita Vite Midtown
Address: 200 Park at N Hills St #130, Raleigh, NC 27609
Bringing the wine experience into Raleigh's vibrant Midtown district, Vita Vite offers an urban wine bar atmosphere with an impressive selection. This isn't a traditional winery but rather a carefully curated wine destination that features wines from around the world, with a strong emphasis on approachable, food-friendly selections.
The location in North Hills makes it ideal for date nights, business meetings, or casual get-togethers. For residents who want to explore wine without leaving the city, Vita Vite provides sophisticated options in an accessible setting.
The bar offers 360-degree views of Midtown Park, which is a popular outdoor gathering space known for its community events, live music, and large green space.
Beautiful works of Southern art for sale are on display throughout the space. They are sourced from local artisans and vendors. Reservations are not accepted.
6. The Raleigh Wine Shop
Address: 317 S Bloodworth St, Raleigh, NC 27601
A cornerstone of Raleigh's wine community, The Raleigh Wine Shop in the Five Points neighborhood serves as both a retail destination and a gathering place for wine enthusiasts. This independent wine shop offers an expertly curated selection of bottles from around the globe, with knowledgeable staff who provide personalized recommendations.
This wine shop is a small local business and a hidden gem known for its great selection of wines, affordable prices, friendly staff, and welcoming vibe. This modern wine shop has been serving the Downtown Raleigh area since its opening in 2011.
This beloved Raleigh neighborhood wine shop sells some of the world's most delicious local and artisanal wines, making this a great spot to try new wines, whether you are a daily or social drinker.
Featuring food trucks and fun events, including trivia nights and wine and cheese pairings, make sure to check the calendar for information about what is happening at the shop.
The Raleigh Wine Shop also offers a wine club and a monthly membership that offers exclusive discounts on premium wine packs. Sign up now online to discover new wines and take advantage of great benefits.
7. Seaboard Wine at Highpark Village
Address: 1914 Bernard St, Raleigh, NC 27608
Located in Raleigh's historic Seaboard Station development, Seaboard Wine at Highpark Village brings a contemporary wine bar experience to one of the city's most exciting mixed-use neighborhoods.
Recognized as the longest-operating independent wine shop in Raleigh, Seaboard Wine has been serving the area for over 25 years. The industrial-modern space features communal tables and cozy nooks, creating an atmosphere that's equally suited to solo sipping or group gatherings.
Their rotating wine list features lesser-known varietals and emerging wine regions, often with a focus on small producers and sustainable practices. The staff are passionate educators who can explain the stories behind each bottle, from farming practices to winemaking techniques.
Once located in Seaboard Station, Highpark Village is the store's new location, which is very nice and modern. Hosting tastings and events throughout the week, information about current wines in the store can be found on the website.
For Raleigh residents who appreciate the intersection of sustainability, quality, and innovation, Seaboard Wine represents the cutting edge of the local wine scene.
8. Hinnant Farms Vineyard and Winery
Address: 826 Pine Level Micro Rd, Pine Level, NC 27568
Located in the countryside near Pine Level, Hinnant Farms Vineyard and Winery offers an authentic wine experience just outside the Raleigh metro area. This family-owned operation grows its own grapes and produces wines that celebrate North Carolina's native muscadine grape alongside other varietals suited to the region.
This is the oldest and largest commercial muscadine vineyard in North Carolina, on over 100 acres of land. The farm setting, complete with vineyard views and pastoral landscapes, provides a peaceful escape from urban life.
For over 47 years, Hinnant Farms Vineyard and Winery has been making only the best dry red, white, and sweet scuppernong wines. Home to 39 award-winning wines and ports, each bottle is made with care on-site.
The property welcomes guests for tastings, picnics, and special events, with a laid-back atmosphere that encourages visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Tastings are available daily as long as you arrive at least an hour before closing and are between $14 and $16 per person. Tours of the winery are given on Saturdays and Sundays as long as there is enough staff available.
Featuring a summer concert series that is open to both members and non-members, as well as events throughout the year, Hinnant Farms Vineyard and Winery provides a fun and exciting experience for everyone. Public tours are free and can take up to 30 minutes.
9. Chatham Street Wine Market
Address: 111 W Chatham St, Cary, NC 27511
Chatham Street Wine Market is the go-to wine shop and tasting bar in Downtown Cary. This neighborhood wine shop and bar first opened in 2015. This small business is a boutique wine shop with a mission to make wine a daily part of your life.
This cozy establishment combines retail sales with a welcoming tasting room atmosphere, featuring an ever-changing selection of wines from around the world. The focus here is on approachable, food-friendly wines at various price points, making quality wine accessible to everyone.
The shop is located near Downtown Cary Park, making this a prime destination for wine shopping. The retail selection is carefully chosen to offer both familiar favorites and interesting discoveries, with staff who are genuinely enthusiastic about helping customers find wines they will love.
Chatham Street Wine Market sells wines from small family-run estates that are organically grown and affordably priced. For those interested in free wine tastings, they occur every Thursday in the shop from 5 PM to 7 PM.
10. Wine Authorities
Address: 211 E Franklin St, Raleigh, NC 27604
A beloved fixture in Raleigh's wine community, Wine Authorities has been serving wine lovers for years with an exceptional selection and unparalleled expertise. This independent wine shop combines a thoughtfully curated retail experience with regular tasting events that have built a loyal following throughout the Triangle.
The staff's deep knowledge and genuine passion for wine make every visit educational and enjoyable, whether you are a novice looking for guidance or a seasoned collector seeking rare bottles.
commitment to quality and customer service. The selection spans the globe, featuring everything from approachable everyday wines to prestigious labels and hard-to-find vintages. They excel at helping customers navigate their inventory, offering personalized recommendations based on taste preferences, food pairings, or budget.
Methodology
We used data and information from many local wineries and wine shops, including Wine Searcher and USA Wine Ratings, to determine the best wineries and wine tastings in Raleigh, NC.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit NC wineries?
The best time to visit the wine country of North Carolina is during peak season and harvest time, which is between August and October. Keep in mind that this is also generally the most crowded time of the year to visit the wineries.
What wine is North Carolina known for?
North Carolina is best known for its native muscadine grapes and European-style vinifera grapes, which are used for making Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Riesling.
Where are the most wineries in NC?
Most of the wineries in North Carolina are located in the Yadkin Valley region, which is one of the most prominent wine regions on the East Coast and is home to more than 40 vineyards and wineries.
Best Wineries and Wine Tastings in Raleigh, NC - Final Thoughts
The wine scene in Raleigh and its surrounding communities offers a blend of urban sophistication and southern hospitality. From estate wineries producing wines from their own vineyards to curated wine bars introducing visitors to discoveries from around the globe, the options cater to every preference and occasion.
If you are moving to Raleigh and are interested in finding your dream home, contact the experts at Raleigh Realty. The Triangle's wine scene is ready to welcome you home.
