Top Wine Experiences in Asheville

Some people may say that “Charlotte has a lot,” but we believe Asheville has so much more. For the outdoor adventurer, there is mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing, endless hiking, and more. 

If you are looking for a more cosmopolitan lifestyle, the craft beer and food scene in Asheville is second to none. Just take a stroll through the famous River Arts District,  also known as “The Rad,” and you will see just how amazing Asheville truly can be. 

For the wine lovers out there, Asheville is an incredibly special city. More recently, the Travel Channel has named Asheville as one of the “New Top 10 Cities for Wine Snobs.” Several incredible winemakers have popped up over the years alongside several classic wineries. 

The climate is so ripe for winemaking in the Asheville area that the French Broad Vignerons, an area wine organization, has found that many of the top wines are equal to similar wines from more established regions in California and Europe.

Experience the Best of the Asheville Wine Scene

With more than 60 wineries across the mountains of Western North Carolina, finding the perfect experience is not hard to do. However, we believe that there are several standouts in the region, which we have detailed below.

1. Biltmore Winery

On the grounds of one of the United States grandest estates lies a beautiful vineyard and winery. The Biltmore Winery transformed a section of the grounds of the Biltmore Estate into a groundbreaking winery in the 1970s. They truly paved the way for the way we think about North Carolina wine and have since become a household brand. 

When you visit the sprawling Biltmore Estate, a visit to the winery, as well as a wine tasting, is included in admission. If you are looking for a more personalized experience, there is an additional ticket that gives you access to a behind-the-scenes tour of the winery.

2. Plēb Winery

For a more funky experience, Plēb Urban Winery may be the spot for you. They produce more than 20 small-batch wines, many of which are made from grape varietals that are not often associated with North Carolina wines. Their winemakers work with wine growers of all sizes and use as little intervention as possible when in the tanks. 

Their winery and restaurant are located in the River Arts District and have become well known for having a very interesting wine selection. While you are enjoying the wine and atmosphere at their tasting room, check out the nearby murals and stop by the other amazing shops in the area.

3. Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne Bar

If you are a lover of books and good wine, then you are missing out if you have not been to the Battery Park Book Exchange and Champagne bar located in the Grove Arcade. While searching through the stacks of new and used books with a focus on North Carolina writers and history, you can enjoy a glass of wine. 

One of the biggest perks is the fact that the Exchange is pet friendly, and every weekend they have live jazz music to add to the atmosphere. Oh, and it has been featured as one of Wine Enthusiast’s “Top 20 Wine Bars In America.”

4. MetroWines 

If you are looking for a top-notch locally-owned wine shop, then look no further than Metro Wines! We provide a huge selection of distinctive and difficult-to-find wines, as well as more approachable choices. We are here to help you find the ideal wine for any meal or occasion. We always have wine experts on staff who can answer your questions, make recommendations, and work with your caterer or event planner.

In addition to our extensive selection of wines, we also offer a wide range of events and tastings. Every month, we host social gatherings, scheduled tastings, and wine seminars. Keep an eye on our website for upcoming events, weekly tastings, and special occasions.

Visit MetroWines to add to your collection, and browse our online store while you're there. We look forward to serving you!