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  • Shelton Vineyards: North Carolina’s Largest Family-Owned Estate Winery in Dobson

    Shelton Vineyards: North Carolina’s Largest Family-Owned Estate Winery in Dobson

    Shelton Vineyards — The Crown Jewel of Yadkin Valley Wine Country

    With 406 acres and approximately 200 acres of planted vines, Shelton Vineyards in Dobson, North Carolina, holds the distinction of being the largest family-owned estate winery in North Carolina. Founded by brothers Charlie and Ed Shelton in 1994 on land just miles from where they grew up, Shelton Vineyards has become the anchor of the Yadkin Valley wine region and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring North Carolina wine country.

    The 33,000-square-foot winery building houses state-of-the-art winemaking equipment, a tasting room, and spaces for events — all set within a stunning landscape that mirrors the great wine regions of Europe.

    The Wines of Shelton

    Estate-Grown Excellence

    Every wine at Shelton is grown, harvested, and bottled on site. Their estate wines showcase the best of Yadkin Valley terroir, with a portfolio spanning bold reds, crisp whites, and limited-edition blends. The Yadkin Valley AVA shares a similar climate and growing season to several renowned wine-growing regions in Europe, giving Shelton’s wines a character and depth that surprises many first-time visitors.

    Chef-Inspired Dining

    Shelton goes beyond tastings with chef-inspired dining experiences, wine-paired dinners, and seasonal food events. It’s one of the few Yadkin Valley wineries where you can enjoy a full culinary experience alongside your wine, making it ideal for an extended visit.

    Shelton Vineyards: North Carolina’s Largest Family-Owned Estate Winery in Dobson - Ashe County Livery blog image

    Events & Festivals

    From wine-paired dinners and live music to seasonal festivals, Shelton has a year-round calendar of events. Their Southern hospitality approach means every visit feels like a special occasion.

    Planning Your Visit to Shelton Vineyards

    • Address: 286 Cabernet Lane, Dobson, NC 27017
    • Region: Yadkin Valley AVA, near Mount Airy
    • Size: 406 acres, 200+ acres of vines, 33,000 sq ft winery
    • Amenities: Tasting room, tours, dining, events, gift shop
    • Best For: First-time Yadkin Valley visitors, couples, groups, wine club members
    • Pro Tip: Book a winery tour to see the full operation — at this scale, it’s impressive

    Wine Tour Routes Featuring Shelton

    Shelton’s Dobson location makes it a natural starting or ending point for Yadkin Valley wine tours:

    • The Grand Yadkin Tour: Shelton → JOLO → Raffaldini → Piccione
    • Dobson to Ronda: Shelton → Sotrio → Raffaldini
    • The Big Three: Shelton (largest) → Raffaldini (most Italian) → JOLO (finest dining)

    Wine Tour Transportation to Shelton Vineyards

    Shelton Vineyards is the kind of place where you want to take your time — explore the grounds, enjoy a tasting, have lunch, maybe buy a case. Don’t cut your visit short because someone has to drive. Ashe County Livery specializes in private wine tour transportation throughout the Yadkin Valley for groups of 2-14.

    Bride in a white gown stands with her partner and guests outside a stone lodge as a black passenger van is parked on a paved driveway with mountains in the distance.

    Book your Shelton Vineyards wine tour or call (336) 484-1350 to plan your day.

    Wine Tour Transportation to Shelton Vineyards

    Planning a visit? Ashe County Livery offers private, chauffeured wine tour transportation to Shelton Vineyards from Ashe County, Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson and across NC’s High Country. Our Shelton Vineyards trip-planning page covers drive times, tasting-room hours, group sizes and pricing.

    Travel in a luxury SUV, sedan, or Sprinter van with a professional chauffeur — everyone in your group gets to taste, nobody has to drive. Plan your Shelton Vineyards tour or call (336) 484-1350.

    Nearby wineries we also serve: Round Peak Vineyards · Stony Knoll Vineyards · Surry Cellars — or browse all 54 Yadkin Valley wineries we provide transportation to.

    Related reading


    Explore More from Ashe County Livery

    Ashe County Livery — Family-owned luxury transportation in North Carolina’s High Country. Learn more or call (336) 484-1350.


    Ready to Book Your Ride?

    Ashe County Livery provides luxury transportation for wine tours, weddings, and airport transfers throughout NC’s High Country.

    📖 Related: What Is High Country Transportation and Why It Matters

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  • JOLO Winery & Vineyards: Pilot Mountain’s Premier Wine Destination

    JOLO Winery & Vineyards: Pilot Mountain’s Premier Wine Destination

    JOLO Winery — A Legacy of Family, Service, and Exceptional Wine

    In the heart of North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley, at the foot of iconic Pilot Mountain, sits JOLO Winery & Vineyards — a veteran-owned, family-operated winery that has become one of the most celebrated wine destinations on the East Coast. Named after founders’ two sons, Joey and Logan, JOLO embodies the spirit of family, dedication, and the artistry of crafting exceptional wines.

    JOLO’s vision goes beyond great wine — they’re building a multi-generational family business and a legacy. From the moment you arrive, you can feel the passion and pride that goes into every bottle, every interaction, and every detail of the guest experience.

    The Wines of JOLO

    East Coast Excellence

    JOLO invites you to explore some of the finest wines the East Coast has to offer. Their vineyards benefit from the unique terroir of the Yadkin Valley — warm days, cool mountain nights, and well-drained soils that coax extraordinary flavor from their grapes. The result is a portfolio of wines that consistently surprises and delights even the most seasoned wine enthusiasts.

    A Setting for Every Visit

    JOLO is more than a tasting room — it’s a full-service winery experience with breathtaking views, outdoor adventures, and the kind of hospitality that makes you want to stay all day. The property includes a fine dining experience, making it perfect for a longer stop during your wine tour.

    JOLO Winery & Vineyards: Pilot Mountain’s Premier Wine Destination - Ashe County Livery blog image

    Planning Your Visit to JOLO

    • Address: 219 JOLO Winery Lane, Pilot Mountain, NC 27041
    • Phone: 1-855-JOLOWINE or (336) 614-0030
    • Hours: Thursday-Sunday 11am-8pm (Closed Mon-Wed)
    • Reservations: Required for parties of 6 or more
    • Dining: Full fine dining available on-site
    • Pro Tip: JOLO is open until 8pm Thurs-Sun — perfect for a sunset wine tasting experience

    Building Your JOLO Wine Tour

    Pilot Mountain is a short drive from the Ronda/Elkin wine cluster, making JOLO an excellent addition to a multi-winery tour:

    • The Complete Yadkin Tour: JOLO → Shelton Vineyards → Raffaldini
    • Pilot Mountain to Dobson: JOLO → Shelton Vineyards → Round Peak Vineyards
    • Sunset Route: Start at Shelton/Raffaldini, end at JOLO for their evening hours

    Private Wine Tour Transportation to JOLO

    JOLO’s Pilot Mountain location is stunning but rural. With evening hours and fine dining available, you may want to extend your visit — which means you definitely want a driver. Ashe County Livery provides luxury wine tour transportation for groups of 2-14 throughout the Yadkin Valley and surrounding areas.

    Book your JOLO wine tour or call (336) 484-1350.

    Red wooden building with white trim and a stone chimney, signage reading 'Tasting Room,' and outdoor seating with green umbrellas in front.

    Wine Tour Transportation to JOLO Winery & Vineyards

    Planning a visit? Ashe County Livery offers private, chauffeured wine tour transportation to JOLO Winery & Vineyards from Ashe County, Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson and across NC’s High Country. Our JOLO Winery & Vineyards trip-planning page covers drive times, tasting-room hours, group sizes and pricing.

    Travel in a luxury SUV, sedan, or Sprinter van with a professional chauffeur — everyone in your group gets to taste, nobody has to drive. Plan your JOLO Winery & Vineyards tour or call (336) 484-1350.

    Nearby wineries we also serve: Pilot Mountain Vineyards & Wedding Venue · Round Peak Vineyards · Elkin Creek Vineyards — or browse all 54 Yadkin Valley wineries we provide transportation to.

    Related reading


    Explore More from Ashe County Livery

    Ashe County Livery — Family-owned luxury transportation in North Carolina’s High Country. Learn more or call (336) 484-1350.


    Ready to Book Your Ride?

    Ashe County Livery provides luxury transportation for wine tours, weddings, and airport transfers throughout NC’s High Country.

    📖 Related: How to Schedule Occasion Shuttles for Events and Tours

    Book Online Now

  • Laurel Gray Vineyards: 10 Generations of Farming, Award-Winning Wine in Hamptonville NC

    Laurel Gray Vineyards: 10 Generations of Farming, Award-Winning Wine in Hamptonville NC

    Laurel Gray Vineyards — 250 Years of Family Legacy, World-Class Wine

    On a gentle slope in the Swan Creek AVA of the Yadkin Valley sits Laurel Gray Vineyards — a place where over 250 years of farming history meets award-winning winemaking. For 10 generations, the Myers family has farmed this valley, starting with a 400-acre land grant from Queen Charlotte of England in 1773.

    Fast forward to 1999, when Ben and Kim Myers transformed their family’s heritage into something new: planting French wine grapes and converting an old milking parlor into a tasting room. Over 25 years later, Laurel Gray has earned a reputation for producing some of the finest wines not just in North Carolina, but on the entire East Coast.

    The Wines of Laurel Gray

    Award-Winning & Sustainably Farmed

    The Myers family sustainably farms their vineyards, honoring the land their ancestors first tilled centuries ago. Wine critics have praised Laurel Gray for producing some of the best wines in North Carolina, with accolades for both their reds and whites. The boutique-style winery means limited production and exceptional attention to detail.

    The Tasting Room

    Laurel Gray’s tasting room is housed in a converted milking parlor — a charming piece of the farm’s dairy heritage. The 84-acre property includes a beautiful flower and herb garden surrounding the winery, creating a peaceful and picturesque setting for your visit.

    Laurel Gray Vineyards: 10 Generations of Farming, Award-Winning Wine in Hamptonville NC - Ashe County Livery blog image

    Planning Your Visit

    • Address: 5726 Old Highway 421, Hamptonville, NC
    • Phone: (888) 769-4635 or (336) 468-9463
    • Hours: Wednesday-Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 1pm-5pm
    • Setting: 84-acre farm with flower gardens, herb garden, vineyard views
    • Region: Swan Creek AVA, Yadkin Valley
    • Historical Note: The Myers family’s connection to this land dates back to 1773 — you’re tasting wine grown on some of the oldest continuously-farmed land in NC

    Combine Laurel Gray with Nearby Wineries

    Laurel Gray is in the Hamptonville area of the Yadkin Valley, close to several other outstanding wineries:

    • Heritage & Boutique: Laurel Gray → Castello Barone → Midnight Magdalena
    • Hamptonville to Ronda: Laurel Gray → Raffaldini → Piccione
    • Swan Creek Showcase: Laurel Gray → Castello Barone → Sotrio Vineyards

    Book Transportation to Laurel Gray Vineyards

    Laurel Gray’s rural Hamptonville location is scenic and peaceful — but the winding country roads are best navigated by a professional driver after wine tasting. Ashe County Livery offers luxury wine tour transportation for 2-14 guests in Mercedes vehicles throughout the Yadkin Valley.

    Reserve your wine tour or call (336) 484-1350 to start planning.

    Red wooden building with white trim and a stone chimney, signage reading 'Tasting Room,' and outdoor seating with green umbrellas in front.

    Wine Tour Transportation to Laurel Gray Vineyards

    Planning a visit? Ashe County Livery offers private, chauffeured wine tour transportation to Laurel Gray Vineyards from Ashe County, Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson and across NC’s High Country. Our Laurel Gray Vineyards trip-planning page covers drive times, tasting-room hours, group sizes and pricing.

    Travel in a luxury SUV, sedan, or Sprinter van with a professional chauffeur — everyone in your group gets to taste, nobody has to drive. Plan your Laurel Gray Vineyards tour or call (336) 484-1350.

    Nearby wineries we also serve: Raffaldini Vineyards · Piccione Vineyards · Sanders Ridge Vineyard & Winery — or browse all 54 Yadkin Valley wineries we provide transportation to.

    Related reading


    Explore More from Ashe County Livery

    Ashe County Livery — Family-owned luxury transportation in North Carolina’s High Country. Learn more or call (336) 484-1350.


    Ready to Book Your Ride?

    Ashe County Livery provides luxury transportation for wine tours, weddings, and airport transfers throughout NC’s High Country.

    📖 Related: What Is Destination Wedding Transport – Key Facts for NC Couples

    Book Online Now

  • Discover Sotrio Vineyards — Wine, Craft Beer & Blue Ridge Views in Ronda NC

    Discover Sotrio Vineyards — Wine, Craft Beer & Blue Ridge Views in Ronda NC

    Sotrio Vineyards — The Best of Both Worlds

    What if you could enjoy award-winning wine and freshly crafted beer at the same place — all while gazing at the Blue Ridge Mountains? That’s exactly what you get at Sotrio Vineyards & Winery in Ronda, North Carolina.

    Located in the heart of the Yadkin Valley wine region, Sotrio stands out from the crowd with a unique combination: a full-service winery paired with Sotrio Brewing Co., their in-house microbrewery offering eight rotating craft beers on tap. Whether your group includes wine lovers, beer enthusiasts, or both — Sotrio has everyone covered.

    Wine & Beer at Sotrio

    The Wines

    Sotrio offers full wine tastings, create-your-own tastings, and wine flights. You can purchase bottles of your favorites along with a beautiful Sotrio logo wine glass. Their wines reflect the unique terroir of the Yadkin Valley — from crisp whites to bold reds, there’s something for every palate.

    The Craft Beer

    Inside the tasting room, Sotrio Brewing Co. pours eight rotating craft beers available in flights and cans. This is a rare find in North Carolina wine country and makes Sotrio the perfect stop for groups where not everyone is a wine drinker.

    Discover Sotrio Vineyards — Wine, Craft Beer & Blue Ridge Views in Ronda NC - Ashe County Livery blog image

    The Setting — Blue Ridge Mountain Views

    Sotrio’s vineyard offers breathtaking views of the Yadkin Valley and the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. The property is known for its colorful sunsets and, on clear nights, stunning full moon views. It’s the kind of place where you want to linger — which is exactly why having a designated driver matters.

    Visiting Sotrio Vineyards

    • Address: 211 Groce Road, Ronda, NC
    • Phone: (336) 571-1002
    • Family-Friendly: Yes — kids welcome when supervised, dogs welcome too
    • Region: Yadkin Valley AVA, near Elkin, NC
    • Pro Tip: Sotrio is just a few minutes from Raffaldini and Piccione — combine all three for an incredible Ronda wine day

    Build Your Perfect Yadkin Valley Tour

    Sotrio’s location in Ronda places it at the epicenter of some of the Yadkin Valley’s finest wineries:

    • Italian Trio: Raffaldini → Piccione → Sotrio
    • Wine & Beer Tour: Sotrio (wine + beer) → Castello Barone → Laurel Gray
    • The Grand Ronda Loop: Raffaldini → Piccione → Castello Barone → Sotrio

    Book Your Sotrio Wine Tour Transportation

    Whether your group loves wine, beer, or both — don’t drive yourself through Yadkin Valley wine country. Ashe County Livery provides luxury transportation for groups of 2-14 in comfortable Mercedes vehicles. We’ll handle the driving so everyone can enjoy the tastings.

    Red wooden building with white trim and a stone chimney, signage reading 'Tasting Room,' and outdoor seating with green umbrellas in front.

    Book your private wine tour or call (336) 484-1350.

    Wine Tour Transportation to Sotrio Vineyards

    Planning a visit? Ashe County Livery offers private, chauffeured wine tour transportation to Sotrio Vineyards from Ashe County, Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson and across NC’s High Country. Our Sotrio Vineyards trip-planning page covers drive times, tasting-room hours, group sizes and pricing.

    Travel in a luxury SUV, sedan, or Sprinter van with a professional chauffeur — everyone in your group gets to taste, nobody has to drive. Plan your Sotrio Vineyards tour or call (336) 484-1350.

    Nearby wineries we also serve: Raffaldini Vineyards · Grassy Creek Vineyard · Roaring River Vineyards — or browse all 54 Yadkin Valley wineries we provide transportation to.

    Related reading


    Explore More from Ashe County Livery

    Ashe County Livery — Family-owned luxury transportation in North Carolina’s High Country. Learn more or call (336) 484-1350.


    Ready to Book Your Ride?

    Ashe County Livery provides luxury transportation for wine tours, weddings, and airport transfers throughout NC’s High Country.

    📖 Related: Wedding Transportation Guide 2025: Plan Perfect NC Travel

    Book Online Now

  • Castello Barone Vineyards: Boutique Wines in the Swan Creek AVA

    Castello Barone Vineyards: Boutique Wines in the Swan Creek AVA

    Castello Barone — Where Faith, Heritage, and Fine Wine Converge

    Nestled in the Swan Creek AVA of Ronda, North Carolina, Castello Barone Vineyards & Winery is a boutique, family-run estate that opened its doors in November 2023. Where the Blue Ridge foothills meet rolling vineyards, founders Scott and Elizabeth Barone have created something truly special — a winery built on faith, military service, and a deep love of great wine.

    As both veterans and certified through the Court of Master Sommeliers Foundations program, Scott and Elizabeth bring a rare combination of discipline, knowledge, and passion to their craft. Drawing on their Italian and French roots, they blend Old-World winemaking traditions with modern stewardship to produce premium, hand-harvested wines.

    The Wines of Castello Barone

    Old-World Tradition, New-World Innovation

    Castello Barone focuses on crafting wines that reflect both their European heritage and the unique terroir of the Swan Creek AVA. Every grape is hand-harvested and processed with care, resulting in wines that are deeply expressive of their mountain origins.

    A Personal Touch

    This is a truly boutique operation — you won’t find mass-produced wines here. When you visit Castello Barone, you’ll likely meet the winemakers themselves. And don’t forget to say hello to Bacchus, the resident winery dog who greets every guest with enthusiasm.

    Castello Barone Vineyards: Boutique Wines in the Swan Creek AVA - Ashe County Livery blog image

    Visiting Castello Barone

    • Location: Swan Creek AVA, Ronda, NC (near Hamptonville)
    • Hours: Monday, Thursday-Saturday 11am-5pm, Sunday 1pm-5pm
    • Style: Boutique, veteran-owned, family-run
    • Atmosphere: Intimate, personal, dog-friendly
    • Pro Tip: Castello Barone is surrounded by other excellent Ronda-area wineries — perfect for a multi-stop tour

    Nearby Wineries for a Full Day Tour

    Castello Barone sits in a cluster of outstanding wineries in the Ronda/Hamptonville area of the Yadkin Valley:

    • Raffaldini Vineyards — The iconic “Chianti in the Carolinas”
    • Piccione Vineyards — Sicilian-inspired wines with stunning views
    • Sotrio Vineyards — Wine and craft beer with Blue Ridge views
    • Laurel Gray Vineyards — 10-generation family farm, award-winning wines

    Get There in Style — Book Wine Tour Transportation

    The Swan Creek AVA is beautiful but remote. The best way to experience Castello Barone and its neighboring wineries is with a private wine tour driver. Ashe County Livery offers luxury transportation for groups of 2-14 throughout the Yadkin Valley, with comfortable Mercedes vehicles and expert local knowledge.

    Book your Yadkin Valley wine tour or call (336) 484-1350 today.

    Red wooden building with white trim and a stone chimney, signage reading 'Tasting Room,' and outdoor seating with green umbrellas in front.

    Wine Tour Transportation to Castello Barone

    Planning a visit? Ashe County Livery offers private, chauffeured wine tour transportation to Castello Barone from Ashe County, Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson and across NC’s High Country. Our Castello Barone trip-planning page covers drive times, tasting-room hours, group sizes and pricing.

    Travel in a luxury SUV, sedan, or Sprinter van with a professional chauffeur — everyone in your group gets to taste, nobody has to drive. Plan your Castello Barone tour or call (336) 484-1350.

    Nearby wineries we also serve: Raffaldini Vineyards · Piccione Vineyards · Laurel Gray Vineyards — or browse all 54 Yadkin Valley wineries we provide transportation to.

    Related reading


    Explore More from Ashe County Livery

    Ashe County Livery — Family-owned luxury transportation in North Carolina’s High Country. Learn more or call (336) 484-1350.


    Ready to Book Your Ride?

    Ashe County Livery provides luxury transportation for wine tours, weddings, and airport transfers throughout NC’s High Country.

    📖 Related: What Is a Corporate Shuttle and Why Businesses Rely On It

    Book Online Now

  • Piccione Vineyards: A Taste of Sicily in North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley

    Piccione Vineyards: A Taste of Sicily in North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley

    Piccione Vineyards — Sicilian Roots, Yadkin Valley Soul

    Sitting high on a ridge overlooking the Yadkin Valley with clear views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Piccione Vineyards in Ronda, North Carolina, brings the spirit of Sicily to the heart of North Carolina wine country. Established in 2010 by a Chicago family with deep Sicilian roots, Piccione has grown into one of the Yadkin Valley’s most beloved destinations for wine, live music, and stunning mountain views.

    The property borders Raffaldini Vineyards and shares a similar Italian aesthetic — but Piccione has carved out its own distinct identity with a focus on both Italian and French varietals, a lively event calendar, and one of the best patios in the Yadkin Valley for soaking in a sunset.

    The Wines of Piccione

    Estate-Grown Italian & French Varietals

    Across approximately 15 acres of vineyards, Piccione grows an impressive range of varietals:

    • Reds: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Montepulciano, Sangiovese, Nero Amaro
    • Whites: Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Vermentino

    Piccione’s estate-grown wines are an exceptional value for their quality. Tastings are offered for reds, whites, or the full experience.

    Piccione Vineyards: A Taste of Sicily in North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley - Ashe County Livery blog image

    Events & Live Music

    Piccione is known for its vibrant atmosphere. On select Saturdays, enjoy live music on the patio from 2-5pm while food trucks serve up delicious fare. Their annual anniversary party in October is a highlight, with food trucks, musicians, and special wine releases.

    Planning Your Visit to Piccione Vineyards

    • Address: 2364 Cedar Forest Road, Ronda, NC 28670
    • Phone: (336) 775-8330
    • Region: Yadkin Valley AVA, bordering Raffaldini Vineyards
    • Best For: Wine tastings, live music Saturdays, group outings, couples
    • Pro Tip: Visit Piccione and Raffaldini back-to-back — they’re literally next to each other!

    Make It a Multi-Winery Day

    Piccione’s location in Ronda makes it the perfect anchor for a Yadkin Valley wine tour. Within a short drive, you can visit some of the valley’s best producers:

    • Next Door: Raffaldini Vineyards (walking distance)
    • Minutes Away: Castello Barone, Sotrio Vineyards
    • Short Drive: Laurel Gray Vineyards, Shelton Vineyards

    Book Your Piccione Wine Tour Transportation

    When you’re hopping between wineries in Ronda and the surrounding Yadkin Valley, having a designated driver isn’t just smart — it’s essential. Ashe County Livery provides luxury wine tour transportation for groups of 2-14, with comfortable Mercedes vehicles and drivers who know these roads.

    Red wooden building with white trim and a stone chimney, signage reading 'Tasting Room,' and outdoor seating with green umbrellas in front.

    Book your private wine tour or call (336) 484-1350 to plan your perfect day in Yadkin Valley wine country.

    Wine Tour Transportation to Piccione Vineyards

    Planning a visit? Ashe County Livery offers private, chauffeured wine tour transportation to Piccione Vineyards from Ashe County, Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson and across NC’s High Country. Our Piccione Vineyards trip-planning page covers drive times, tasting-room hours, group sizes and pricing.

    Travel in a luxury SUV, sedan, or Sprinter van with a professional chauffeur — everyone in your group gets to taste, nobody has to drive. Plan your Piccione Vineyards tour or call (336) 484-1350.

    Nearby wineries we also serve: Raffaldini Vineyards · Castello Barone · Dobbins Creek Vineyards — or browse all 54 Yadkin Valley wineries we provide transportation to.

    Wedding Transportation to Piccione Vineyards

    Planning a wedding here? Ashe County Livery provides private, chauffeured wedding transportation to Piccione Vineyards from Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, West Jefferson and across NC’s High Country. Our Piccione Vineyards page covers guest shuttle timing, drive times from nearby hotels, group sizes and pricing.

    Guests travel in a luxury SUV, sedan, or Sprinter van with a professional chauffeur, so nobody has to drive mountain roads after the reception. Plan Piccione Vineyards transportation or call (336) 484-1350.

    We also serve every wedding venue across the High Country, each with its own planning page.

    Related reading


    Explore More from Ashe County Livery

    Ashe County Livery — Family-owned luxury transportation in North Carolina’s High Country. Learn more or call (336) 484-1350.


    Ready to Book Your Ride?

    Ashe County Livery provides luxury transportation for wine tours, weddings, and airport transfers throughout NC’s High Country.

    📖 Related: 7 Types of Transportation Services for High Country Needs

    Book Online Now

  • Raffaldini Vineyards: Chianti in the Carolinas — Everything You Need to Know

    Raffaldini Vineyards: Chianti in the Carolinas — Everything You Need to Know

    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.

    Raffaldini Vineyards: Chianti in the Carolinas — Everything You Need to Know - Ashe County Livery blog image

    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.

    Red wooden building with white trim and a stone chimney, signage reading 'Tasting Room,' and outdoor seating with green umbrellas in front.

    Wine Tour Transportation to Raffaldini Vineyards

    Planning a visit? Ashe County Livery offers private, chauffeured wine tour transportation to Raffaldini Vineyards from Ashe County, Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson and across NC’s High Country. Our Raffaldini Vineyards trip-planning page covers drive times, tasting-room hours, group sizes and pricing.

    Travel in a luxury SUV, sedan, or Sprinter van with a professional chauffeur — everyone in your group gets to taste, nobody has to drive. Plan your Raffaldini Vineyards tour or call (336) 484-1350.

    Nearby wineries we also serve: Piccione Vineyards · Castello Barone · Sotrio Vineyards — or browse all 54 Yadkin Valley wineries we provide transportation to.

    Related reading


    Explore More from Ashe County Livery

    Ashe County Livery — Family-owned luxury transportation in North Carolina’s High Country. Learn more or call (336) 484-1350.


    Ready to Book Your Ride?

    Ashe County Livery provides luxury transportation for wine tours, weddings, and airport transfers throughout NC’s High Country.

    📖 Related: The Essential Guide to the Role of Luxury Transport

    Book Online Now

  • Your Complete Guide to Dynamis Estate Wines — Yadkin Valley’s Newest Gem

    Your Complete Guide to Dynamis Estate Wines — Yadkin Valley’s Newest Gem

    Introducing Dynamis Estate Wines — Where Altitude Meets Artistry

    Perched at 1,640 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains on a stunning 1,500-acre estate in Jonesville, North Carolina, Dynamis Estate Wines has quickly earned its place as one of the Yadkin Valley’s most exciting wineries. Nominated for American Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast’s 26th Annual Wine Star Awards, Dynamis blends time-honored European winemaking traditions with modern technology to craft bold, Bordeaux-inspired wines.

    The name “Dynamis” means limitless power — and it shows in every bottle. At this elevation, the thinner mountain air produces grapes with exceptional complexity, and the rocky soil of the Brushy Mountains creates a unique terroir that sets Dynamis apart from every other winery in North Carolina.

    What Makes Dynamis Estate Wines Special?

    Mountain Terroir at Its Finest

    The ancient seismic events that formed the Brushy Mountains left behind rocky, mineral-rich soil — the perfect foundation for growing flavorful wine grapes. Combined with the high altitude and cool mountain breezes, Dynamis grapes develop layers of flavor you simply won’t find at lower elevations.

    Bordeaux-Inspired Winemaking

    Dynamis focuses on the five main Bordeaux red grape varieties, producing full-bodied blends that exemplify premium mountain winemaking. Their flagship Dynamis blend features all five Bordeaux varietals and showcases the strength of their terroir. Every wine is hand-crafted by artisan winemakers whose passion, creativity, and intuition guide each vintage.

    Your Complete Guide to Dynamis Estate Wines — Yadkin Valley’s Newest Gem - Ashe County Livery blog image

    A Tasting Experience Like No Other

    The tasting lodge at Dynamis is an experience in itself. Set against panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain views, you’ll sample wines while learning about the unique growing conditions that make Yadkin Valley an exceptional wine region. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate — you’ll leave understanding not just what’s in your glass, but why it tastes the way it does.

    Planning Your Visit to Dynamis Estate Wines

    • Address: 1004 Highland Road, Jonesville, NC 28642
    • Region: Yadkin Valley AVA, North Carolina
    • Best Known For: Bordeaux-style red blends, premium mountain terroir wines
    • Tip: Dynamis pairs beautifully with a multi-winery tour — it’s within easy driving distance of Shelton Vineyards, Laurel Gray, and several other Yadkin Valley producers.

    Why Book a Private Wine Tour to Dynamis?

    The mountain roads leading to Dynamis are scenic but winding. After tasting bold Bordeaux blends at 1,640 feet, the last thing you want to worry about is navigating back down. A private wine tour with professional transportation means your entire group can relax, sip, and enjoy every moment.

    At Ashe County Livery, we specialize in luxury wine tour transportation throughout the Yadkin Valley. Our Mercedes Sprinter seats up to 14 guests comfortably, and our luxury SUVs are perfect for smaller groups of 2-6. We’ll pick you up, handle all the driving between wineries, and get you home safely after a perfect day in wine country.

    Bride in a white gown stands with her partner and guests outside a stone lodge as a black passenger van is parked on a paved driveway with mountains in the distance.

    Popular Wine Tour Routes Including Dynamis:

    • The Bordeaux Route: Dynamis Estate → Shelton Vineyards → Laurel Gray Vineyards
    • Italian & French: Raffaldini Vineyards → Piccione Vineyards → Dynamis Estate
    • Full Yadkin Experience: Dynamis → JOLO Winery → Shelton → your choice of fourth stop

    Ready to Visit Dynamis Estate Wines?

    Don’t risk driving after wine tasting on mountain roads. Book your private Yadkin Valley wine tour with Ashe County Livery and let us handle the driving while you enjoy the wine. Groups of 2-14 welcome. Contact us at (336) 484-1350 to plan your perfect wine tour.

    Wine Tour Transportation to Dynamis Estate Wines

    Planning a visit? Ashe County Livery offers private, chauffeured wine tour transportation to Dynamis Estate Wines from Ashe County, Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson and across NC’s High Country. Our Dynamis Estate Wines trip-planning page covers drive times, tasting-room hours, group sizes and pricing.

    Travel in a luxury SUV, sedan, or Sprinter van with a professional chauffeur — everyone in your group gets to taste, nobody has to drive. Plan your Dynamis Estate Wines tour or call (336) 484-1350.

    Nearby wineries we also serve: Grassy Creek Vineyard · Sotrio Vineyards · Elkin Creek Vineyards — or browse all 54 Yadkin Valley wineries we provide transportation to.

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    Explore More from Ashe County Livery

    Ashe County Livery — Family-owned luxury transportation in North Carolina’s High Country. Learn more or call (336) 484-1350.


    Ready to Book Your Ride?

    Ashe County Livery provides luxury transportation for wine tours, weddings, and airport transfers throughout NC’s High Country.

    📖 Related: Wedding Transport Terminology Explained for NC Events

    Book Online Now

  • Why Is There a 6-Hour Minimum for Private Transportation?

    Why Is There a 6-Hour Minimum for Private Transportation?

    Short Answer

    Because you’re not paying just for the time you’re in the vehicle—you’re reserving the vehicle, the driver, and that time block exclusively for your group.

    🚐 We’re Not a Taxi or Uber

    Ashe County Livery operates as a private, pre-reserved transportation service, not an on-demand rideshare like Uber or a taxi company.

    That means:

    • Vehicles are booked in advance and dedicated to your group
    • Drivers are scheduled specifically around your reservation
    • We block off that time and cannot rebook it

    When you reserve a van, that vehicle is taken out of inventory for that entire window.

    ⏳ Why We Can’t “Just Go Home” Between Trips

    We understand the thought:

    “You can drop us off, go do something else, then come back later.”

    In reality, it doesn’t work that way operationally:

    • We cannot reliably book another job in the middle of your event window
    • Timing delays (very common with events) would create conflicts
    • We must remain available and committed to your return time
    • That vehicle is effectively on hold for you the entire time

    Even if the driver isn’t physically with you, the vehicle and time are still reserved exclusively for your group.

    Why Is There a 6-Hour Minimum for Private Transportation? - Ashe County Livery blog image

    📅 You’re Reserving Availability, Not Just Drive Time

    Think of it like:

    • Booking a DJ for your wedding — you don’t only pay for the hours music is playing
    • Hiring a photographer — you’re paying for their time block, not just shutter clicks
    • Reserving a venue — you pay for the time it’s held, even if unused

    Transportation works the same way.

    🚫 Why We Can’t Do 2-Hour “Point-to-Point” Pricing

    If we accepted short, one-off trips:

    • We would have to turn away full-service bookings (weddings, wine tours, etc.)
    • We would lose the ability to operate reliably during peak demand times
    • Pricing would become inconsistent and unsustainable

    Our model is built around reserved service blocks, not single rides.

    🚘 “But Uber Would Be Cheaper…”

    We hear this a lot—but it’s not an apples-to-apples comparison.

    Key Differences:

    • Availability: There is little to no consistent Uber coverage in Ashe County or most of NC’s High Country
    • Group Size: 10–14 passengers requires multiple rideshare vehicles, not one
    • Coordination: Multiple cars = staggered arrivals, confusion, delays
    • Safety: More vehicles = more drivers = increased risk (especially after events involving alcohol)
    • Reliability: No guarantee a return ride will even be available in rural mountain areas

    With private service, your group:

    • ✅ Arrives together
    • ✅ Leaves together
    • ✅ Has a guaranteed ride home
    • ✅ Doesn’t have to rely on cell service or app availability

    🎯 What You’re Really Paying For

    When you book Ashe County Livery, you’re paying for:

    Bride in a white gown stands with her partner and guests outside a stone lodge as a black passenger van is parked on a paved driveway with mountains in the distance.
    • A dedicated vehicle reserved just for you
    • A professional, insured driver
    • Guaranteed availability for both pickup and return
    • Peace of mind that your group is handled safely and smoothly

    💡 The Bottom Line

    If you only need a quick ride from point A to point B, a taxi or rideshare would be the right fit (if available in your area).

    If you need:

    • Reliability
    • Group coordination
    • Safety
    • Guaranteed return transportation

    Then private service is the right solution—and that’s exactly what we provide.

    Ready to reserve? Request a quote or call us at (336) 484-1350. We serve weddings, wine tours, airport transfers, and more across NC’s High Country — Boone, Banner Elk, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson, and beyond.


    Explore More from Ashe County Livery

    Ashe County Livery — Family-owned luxury transportation in North Carolina’s High Country. Learn more or call (336) 484-1350.


    Ready to Book Your Ride?

    Ashe County Livery provides luxury transportation for wine tours, weddings, and airport transfers throughout NC’s High Country.

    📖 Related: Family Owned Livery Services Explained: Complete Guide

    Book Online Now

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  • Flying Into CLT, GSO or AVL for the NC High Country

    Flying Into CLT, GSO or AVL for the NC High Country

    There is no airport in the NC High Country. Whichever flight you book into Charlotte, Greensboro, Asheville or Raleigh, the last leg to Boone, Blowing Rock, West Jefferson or Banner Elk is a mountain drive — and that drive is the part most visitors underestimate. Here is how to pick the right airport and plan an airport transfer to the NC High Country that actually fits your arrival time.

    Drive times from each airport

    • Charlotte-Douglas (CLT) — the region’s largest airport and the most flight options. Roughly 2.5 hours to the High Country. Best choice if you need a direct flight or you are connecting internationally.
    • Piedmont Triad (GSO), Greensboro — about 1.5 to 2 hours to Boone, and the closest major airport to the eastern foothills. Often the quietest option.
    • Asheville Regional (AVL) — roughly 1.5 hours to Banner Elk, so it is the shortest ground leg for the western High Country. Its direct-flight list keeps growing.
    • Raleigh-Durham (RDU) — extensive domestic and international connections, but plan on about 3 hours of driving.
    • Concord-Padgett (USA) — northeast of Charlotte, serving budget carriers and charters. Less congestion than CLT with a similar drive.
    • Regional strips — Ashe County Airport, Wilkes County Airport and Mountain Air (2NC0) for private aviation.

    Those times assume clear roads. Fall leaf season, holiday weekends and any winter weather event can add 30 to 60 minutes, and the last 20 miles are two-lane and curvy in most directions.

    Pick your airport by your ground leg, not just the airfare

    A cheaper fare into RDU can cost you 90 extra minutes each way. If you are staying in Banner Elk, Beech Mountain or Sugar Mountain, price AVL first. Staying in Boone, Blowing Rock or Valle Crucis? Compare GSO and CLT. Heading to West Jefferson, Sparta or Ashe County? GSO and CLT are usually the practical pair. And if you are arriving for a wedding weekend, check where the rest of your party is landing — sharing one transfer is almost always cheaper than two.

    Plan the arrival, not just the flight

    • Book the ground leg before you land. Uber and Lyft coverage is thin to nonexistent in the mountains, and drivers who will accept a two-hour fare out of CLT and then deadhead back are rare. Arranging a car after baggage claim is how people end up stranded at 11 PM.
    • Give your flight number, not just a time. We track arrivals and adjust for delays and early landings, which only works if we know the flight.
    • Add a buffer on departures. For a morning flight out of CLT we generally suggest leaving the High Country about four hours before wheels-up — the drive plus check-in and security, with room for weather.
    • Say how much luggage you have. Ski gear, golf clubs, wedding dresses and pack-and-plays all change which vehicle we send.
    • Winter arrivals need a plan B. Mountain roads can be clear in town and iced at 3,500 feet. Tell us where you are actually staying — a steep private cabin drive is worth knowing about in advance.

    What a private transfer looks like

    Door-to-door pickup from any address in the High Country, a professional driver who knows the routes, flight tracking, and a luxury SUV or equivalent with room for real luggage. We run early morning to late night, seven days a week, and we handle group transfers for wedding guests, corporate travel and families. Common runs include CLT to Boone, GSO to West Jefferson, AVL to Banner Elk and RDU to Blowing Rock.

    Before you book any provider, it is worth knowing what North Carolina requires of for-hire operators — for-hire plates, $1.5 million in commercial livery insurance, and the state transportation commerce tax. Our NC for-hire requirements guide covers the questions to ask.

    Need a ride from the airport? Ashe County Livery runs private, door-to-door transfers between every regional airport and any address in the High Country. See our airport shuttle service or request a quote — or call (336) 484-1350.

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    Traveling on a budget?

    The Blue Ridge Shared Ride Connection matches High Country travelers headed to the same airport on the same day, so you can split the cost of a professionally driven private ride. Built for App State and Lees-McRae students, and open to anyone 18+ in the High Country.