Discover Banner Elk Winery & Villa
Perched at 3,800 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Banner Elk Winery & Villa holds the distinction of being the highest-elevation winery in North Carolina. The views alone are worth the trip — sweeping mountain vistas that stretch across Avery County and beyond.
But this isn’t just a view. Banner Elk Winery has been producing award-winning wines since 2006, combining the unique terroir of high-altitude mountain growing with European winemaking traditions.
The Wines
Banner Elk Winery focuses on cool-climate varieties that thrive at elevation:
- Chambourcin — their flagship red, a medium-bodied beauty with dark fruit and a smooth finish
- Traminette — an aromatic white with floral notes and a hint of spice
- Cranberry Wine — a local favorite, tart and refreshing, made with North Carolina cranberries
- Mountain Sunset Rosé — perfect for the patio, light and crisp
Tastings are relaxed and personal — the staff takes time to explain each wine and the story behind it. No rush, no attitude.
The Villa Experience
What sets Banner Elk Winery apart is the Villa — a beautiful event and lodging space right on the winery grounds. It’s become a popular venue for:
- Intimate weddings and receptions
- Corporate retreats
- Weekend getaways
- Special winery dinners and wine pairing events
If you’re planning a wine-focused weekend in the High Country, staying at the Villa means you’re steps from the tasting room.
Getting There: Why a Wine Tour Driver Makes Sense
Banner Elk Winery sits on winding mountain roads at nearly 4,000 feet. The drive is stunning but demands attention — switchbacks, elevation changes, and limited cell service. After a few tastings, it’s not a drive you want to make yourself.
A private High Country wine tour with Ashe County Livery takes the driving off your plate entirely. We’ll pick you up, drive you to Banner Elk Winery (plus other stops along the route), and get you home safely.
Pair It With These Nearby Wineries
Banner Elk Winery works perfectly as part of a multi-winery day in the High Country:
- Thistle Meadow Winery (Laurel Springs) — 45 minutes, known for fruit wines and mead
- Villa Nove Winery (Newland) — 20 minutes, Italian-style wines in a cozy mountain setting
- Eagles Nest Winery (Banner Elk) — 10 minutes, small-batch wines with Eagle’s Nest golf views
Our drivers know the best routes to connect these wineries and can customize the itinerary based on your group’s preferences.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to experience the highest winery in North Carolina? Book a High Country wine tour or call (336) 484-1350 to plan your day.
Ashe County Livery provides luxury wine tour transportation throughout the NC High Country and Yadkin Valley. See all our services.
🍷 Planning a Wine Tour in the NC High Country?
Ashe County Livery offers private, luxury wine tour transportation throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains. Skip the driving and let our professional chauffeurs take you from winery to winery in comfort and style.
Serving Banner Elk, Blowing Rock, Boone, and all NC High Country destinations • (336) 484-1350
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