Welcome to Raffaldini Vineyards — Italy Meets the Yadkin Valley
Known affectionately as “Chianti in the Carolinas,” Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery in Ronda, North Carolina, is the only Italian-themed winery in the entire state. Step through their vineyard gates and onto a 102-acre estate dotted with fragrant roses, Italian herbs, fig trees, and olive trees — all set against the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
If you’ve been searching for the best wineries in the Yadkin Valley, Raffaldini is consistently at the top of every list — and for good reason. Their award-winning wines, breathtaking scenery, and authentic Italian atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for any wine lover visiting North Carolina.
The Wines of Raffaldini
Appassimento Method — A Rarity in the Southeast
Raffaldini is renowned for their dry Appassimento-style wines — a traditional Italian technique where grapes are partially dried before fermentation, concentrating flavors and creating rich, complex wines. This is incredibly rare in the Southeast, making Raffaldini’s wines truly one of a kind.
Italian Varietals in the Blue Ridge
Raffaldini grows Italian grape varieties that thrive in the Yadkin Valley’s climate and terroir. Their portfolio includes dry reds, sparkling wines, and seasonally available selections — each reflecting the family’s deep Italian heritage and commitment to quality winemaking.
Visiting Raffaldini Vineyards
- Address: 450 Groce Road, Ronda, NC 28670
- Hours: Monday & Wednesday-Saturday 11am-5pm, Sunday 12pm-5pm (Closed Tuesday)
- Age Policy: All visitors must be 21+, except on designated family days
- What to Expect: Wine tastings in the Villa tasting room, vineyard views, Italian-inspired atmosphere
- Pro Tip: Raffaldini sits right next to Piccione Vineyards and near Castello Barone and Sotrio — perfect for a multi-winery day
Why Raffaldini is Perfect for a Group Wine Tour
Raffaldini’s combination of world-class wines and gorgeous scenery makes it the crown jewel of any Yadkin Valley wine tour. Most visitors spend 60-90 minutes here, savoring the tasting experience and wandering the estate grounds. Combine it with 2-3 nearby wineries and you have an unforgettable day in North Carolina wine country.
Popular Wine Tour Routes Including Raffaldini:
- The Italian Trail: Raffaldini Vineyards → Piccione Vineyards → Castello Barone (all within minutes of each other in Ronda)
- Ronda & Beyond: Raffaldini → Sotrio Vineyards → Laurel Gray Vineyards
- The Grand Tour: Raffaldini → Piccione → Shelton Vineyards → JoLo Winery
Book Your Private Raffaldini Wine Tour
The roads around Ronda, NC are beautiful but rural. After tasting Raffaldini’s award-winning Appassimento wines, let a professional driver handle the rest. Ashe County Livery offers luxury wine tour transportation throughout the Yadkin Valley for groups of 2-14 guests.
We’ll pick you up, drive you between wineries, and get you home safely. Book your private wine tour today or call us at (336) 484-1350.
Explore More from Ashe County Livery
- Ashe County Livery — Premium transportation in NC’s High Country
- Book a Yadkin Valley wine tour — Explore the Surry County Wine Trail in luxury
- Reserve your wine tour — Mountain winery tours for groups of 2–14
- Wedding transportation — Shuttle service for NC High Country weddings
- Request a quote
Ashe County Livery — Family-owned luxury transportation in North Carolina’s High Country. Learn more or call (336) 484-1350.
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