Advertisement

Want to go on a wine tasting? These four wineries are a short drive from Charlotte

Wine tasting, exploring beautiful vineyards and taking in scenic views of landscapes are just a few activities you can do this summer at Stanly County wineries, northeast of Charlotte.

If the plan is to spend time at (or near) Morrow Mountain State Park near Albemarle, you may want to consider making a day of it to sip a North Carolina-produced Chardonnay or even a fruit-forward strawberry wine. Several wineries are located nearby.

Many offer special events, trails and tastings — plus charcuterie and other snacks to pair with your drinks.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE OBSERVER: See 8 perks to a Charlotte Observer digital subscription

Here’s the scoop on four wineries and vineyards that are only a short drive from Charlotte:

Dennis Vineyards

Location: 24043 Endy Rd, Albemarle, NC 28001

Hours: Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday from 1-6 p.m.; and closed on Mondays.

What to know: Dennis Vinyards was the county’s first winery. It offers a variety of wines including semi-dry, dry, sweet and fruity wines. Wine options include Summer Sangria, Midnight Merlot, Chardonnay, Sweet Medley, Blackberry, Strawberry and more.

Dennis Vineyards was Stanly County’s first winery.
Dennis Vineyards was Stanly County’s first winery.

Rocky River Vineyards

Location: 11685 Reed Mine Rd, Midland, NC 28107

Hours: Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday from 1-6 p.m.; and closed on Monday. The last tasting is at 5 p.m., and the last serving is by 5:30 p.m.

What to know: Wine tastings, wine flights and beer are available. Wine options include White Zinfandel, Rockin’ Red, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and more. Charcuterie and snacks are also available. During harvest, there’s an opportunity for visitors to exprecience grape stomping. Reservations are needed for groups of six or more.

Rocky River Vineyards offers wine flights, along with wine tastings.
Rocky River Vineyards offers wine flights, along with wine tastings.

Stony Mountain Vineyards & Winery

Location: 26370 Mountain Ridge Rd, Albemarle, NC 28001

Hours: Open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. The last wine tasting is at 5 p.m. Open most Sundays from 12-5 p.m., but visitors can call 704-982-0922 to confirm.

What to know: The small, boutique winery is family-owned. Stony Mountain is near Morrow Mountain State Park and offers a view of the lower Yadkin Valley. The vineyard creates European-style wines, fruit-forward wines and more. Some of the wines offered are Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Riesling, Chardonnay and Apple Wine. On tap, bottled and canned beers are offered. The food options include meat and cheese trays, snacks and cheesecake.

Stony Mountain Vineyards & Winery.
Stony Mountain Vineyards & Winery.

Uwharrie Vineyards & Winery

Location: 28030 Austin Rd, Albemarle, NC 28001

Hours: Open Sunday and Tuesday through Friday from 12-5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wine tastings end 30 minutes before closing.

What to know: Wine options include Riesling, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Strawberry, Raspberry, Blueberry and more. Snacks, chips, salsa, chocolate and various other foods are offered. The winery is also pet-friendly. During visits, guests may also catch a glimpse of various animals such as turkey, deer, turkey, turtles and more. Group tastings for 30 or more people require a reservation.

[RELATED: Juniper Grill is open in Ballantyne — just in time for patio season.]