Look out for the chickens!
That was my warning to my husband as we pulled into the parking lot at Carolina Heritage Vineyard & Winery in Elkin, North Carolina. The charming boutique-style winery, with its welcoming porch and free-range chickens, has the impressive distinction of being the first organic winery in North Carolina. This is exactly the kind of place that calls to me—inviting a visit, a little exploration, and the chance to learn something new. Here’s what I discovered during our springtime stop, along with a few helpful things to know before you go.
The First Organic Winery in North Carolina
In the wine world, getting that USDA organic certification is a big deal. It means the grapes are grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers. That kind of commitment doesn’t happen overnight. Since I’ve been focusing more on eating clean these days, naturally, I’m interested in drinking clean, too. Thus, I was thrilled to learn we were staying mere miles away from an organic winery and quickly added a stop there to our itinerary.
Carolina Heritage was first certified organic in 2008. As a result, every bottle of wine is produced on-site using strict organic practices to create delicious wines, both dry and sweet. Likewise, they also create some incredible blends that make sitting on the porch, sipping, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings an enjoyable way to spend time in North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley AVA.
It's All About the Grapes
Carolina Heritage grows some really interesting grapes, like Traminette, Muscadine, Norton, and Chambourcin. These grapes are well-suited for North Carolina’s climate and the region’s loamy soil. Their vineyard is thoughtfully planted to suit the land, with rows of vines that reflect their organic approach. It’s the kind of place where you can tell the focus is on quality and letting those unique grape varieties really shine.
Rows and rows of vines are part of the attractive backdrop visitors enjoy while at Carolina Heritage. Our visit was in late March, so the vines were rather bare. However, the promise of springtime growth was budding!
Organic at the Heart
Carolina Heritage’s commitment to sustainability goes way beyond the vineyard. The tasting room is powered by solar panels, which is pretty impressive. Additionally, they’ve incorporated recycled materials throughout the property. Even water conservation is part of their process; everything is done with intention, from the way the grapes are grown to how the wine is produced and served.
One thing that really amazed me? They even use wine bottles made from recycled paper. Yes—paper! The bottle has an internal bladder that holds the wine, and it’s much lighter than glass. It’s the kind of innovation that really sticks with me; not just because it’s clever, but because it shows how serious they are about doing things differently.
“Stay at the first organic winery in North Carolina! There is a private 1-bath vacation rental on the property that offers visitors the opportunity to stay overnight at this scenic winery. Check back in Fall of 2025 for availability!”
Anna Marie
Wine with Integrity & Flavor
For me, the joy of visiting small wineries is that, in addition to sampling the wines, I get to learn the story behind the wine.
Often, I hear the story directly from the person responsible for crafting that wine. That’s the case for my visit to Carolina Heritage. I learned first-hand from the owner working behind the bar. She provided insights to me about each sample we tasted.
Another thing I enjoy about visiting smaller wineries is how you can feel the passion behind the wine. The folks making it truly care about their craft, and that care comes through in every sip. You’re not just tasting wine, you’re tasting the terroir, the heart of the place, and the people who pour themselves into it.
We ultimately went with The Paddler, a small batch limited release made of Niagara White Wine grapes– it’s sensational. Even better, we could seal the bottle and take what we didn’t finish with us because the bottle is made of paper!
A New Chapter for North Carolina’s First Organic Vineyard
Since our visit, there is a new chapter on the horizon for this thriving organic winery in the foothills of the North Carolina Blue Ridge. Or, as their website puts it, “We’re growing into a new season!”
Carolina Heritage Vineyard & Winery is transitioning to new ownership with a re-opening of the tasting room set for August of 2025, “with fresh experiences and familiar charm.”
I’m genuinely curious and excited to see what’s next. I’ll definitely be making a return visit to see how this next chapter unfolds.
What I Liked
Not only do I appreciate the concept and passion for growing and producing organic wines, but I also love the welcoming atmosphere of this Yadkin Valley winery. Its laid-back, casual energy punctuated our visit as we took our wine outside, sipping on the porch while the sun slowly sank below the horizon.
I also appreciate how close it is to downtown Elkin, Dobson, and Mt. Airy. Plus, with several other Yadkin Valley wineries nearby, it makes for a perfect stop when you’re exploring the wine trail.
Best of all, it is only three miles from Riversong Cabin Rentals (READ MORE), where we were staying for the weekend, and was the perfect wrap-up to our day of exploring the region.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re ready to hit the Yadkin Valley wine trail and looking for a small, unassuming winery that is passionate about its wines, Carolina Heritage Vineyard & Winery ticks all the boxes and then some. From the moment we pulled into the parking lot until our departure, we were immersed in a relaxing vibe accentuated by friendly conversations, good wine, and an organic experience like no other. I’m delighted we included this charming organic winery in the itinerary.
When planning your visit, be sure to check their website first to ensure they’re finished transitioning to new ownership. Oh, and when you arrive in the parking lot, be sure to look out for the chickens!
Carolina Heritage Vineyards & Winery in Elkin, North Carolina
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