Asheville stands out as a prime destination for wine lovers, thanks to its mountainous terrain, small family wineries, and a burgeoning wine scene that combines tradition with innovation. The region’s unique elevation, especially at vineyards like Grandfather Vineyard & Winery, gives wines a distinctive character, making it a must-visit for those eager to explore North Carolina’s wine offerings. Whether you’re after a luxury private experience or a casual tasting, Asheville’s wine tours cater to a wide range of interests.
Among the options, we’re especially drawn to tours that offer personalized service and the chance to experience local vineyards firsthand. The Three Vineyards Half Day Private Wine Tour from Asheville is a standout, with its focus on small, family-run wineries and private chauffeur service. It offers a relaxed way to enjoy North Carolina’s scenic beauty and wine culture, all without the hassle of driving.
Quick Overview
This guide covers four highly-rated Asheville wine tours, from private, all-day experiences to shorter, more intimate outings. Each offers a different way to explore local wineries, with options for private transport, scenic mountain views, and culinary experiences. Check out the detailed descriptions below to find your perfect match.
1. Three Vineyards Half Day Private Wine Tour From Asheville
At number 1, this Three Vineyards Half Day Private Wine Tour provides an intimate, personalized experience, perfect for those who want to enjoy North Carolina’s wine scene without the crowds. The tour includes transportation by private chauffeur, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery. You’ll visit three handpicked wineries: Overmountain Vineyards, Parker-Binns Vineyard, and Marked Tree Vineyard.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on family-owned wineries that showcase the region’s diversity — from mountain views at Overmountain to the Tryon foothills at Parker-Binns. The tour lasts about 6 hours, leaving plenty of time for tastings, relaxing, and soaking in the landscape. The private chauffeur means you won’t need to worry about driving, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a hassle-free day.
The reviews highlight friendly guides and knowledgeable staff, with one reviewer noting, “Our guide was very friendly. He had water available,” which enhances the overall experience. The cost is $259.99 per person, which reflects the personalized nature and private transport.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a customized, relaxed day with visits to authentic family wineries, this tour is hard to beat. It’s great for those wanting to avoid the busy crowds and enjoy North Carolina’s scenic vineyards.
2. Grandfather Mountain Private Wine & Dine Tour from Asheville
At number 2, the Grandfather Mountain Private Wine & Dine Tour takes you on a 7-hour journey through the Blue Ridge Mountains. This tour is unique because it combines visits to outstanding vineyards with a stop in the quaint town of Little Switzerland, offering a full day of wine, scenery, and small-town charm.
Your private chauffeur handles all the driving, so you can focus on experiencing the distinct terroir of Grandfather Vineyard & Winery, perched at 3300 feet elevation. The altitude imparts a unique flavor profile to their wines, which are worth tasting. The tour also visits Linville Falls Winery, where you’ll enjoy estate-grown wines with stunning mountain views. The tour concludes with time in Black Mountain, exploring its charming streets.
This experience is perfect for travelers who want an educational component—learning about the effect of elevation on wine—and the chance to blend scenic drives with wine tasting. Reviews mention Logan, the guide, as “awesome,” adding a personal touch to the day.
Value at $229.99 per person, this tour delivers a luxurious, full-day experience that appeals to those seeking a deeper connection to the mountains and vineyards of North Carolina.
Bottom Line: Best suited for avid wine lovers interested in mountain wines and small-town explorations, this tour offers a more comprehensive day with scenic views and local flavor.
3. 2 Vineyard Wine Tour of Western NC
At number 3, the 2 Vineyard Wine Tour of Western NC offers a shorter, budget-friendly option. For around $159, you’ll visit two vineyards—Sawyer Springs and Stone Ashe—plus enjoy a charcuterie board with wine.
This tour is ideal if you prefer a more casual, shorter outing without sacrificing quality. Sawyer Springs is a family-owned winery where you can indulge in a farm-style experience, while Stone Ashe was named the best new vineyard of 2022. Here, you’ll taste estate-grown wines such as Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, with stunning mountain views. It’s a good choice if you want to sample local wines and learn about North Carolina wine in a relaxed setting.
The tour departs from downtown Asheville, making it convenient for visitors staying in the city. Since there are no reviews provided, it’s best suited for casual wine tasters or those on a tighter schedule.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners or those wanting a quick taste of Western NC wines, offering great value for the price and a laid-back atmosphere.
$159.00 per person
4. Private Wine Tour with Dine in Black Mountain from Asheville
At number 4, the Private Wine Tour with Dine in Black Mountain combines wine tasting with dining and exploring. Over approximately 6.5 hours, you’ll visit two wineries: Perry’s Berries Vineyard & Winery and Silver Fork Winery, followed by a stroll through Black Mountain’s historic downtown.
What makes this tour distinctive is its focus on fruit wines at Perry’s Berries, which offers fruit-based wines and ice cream, and the scenic views at Silver Fork, overlooking the South Mountains. The tour ends with time in Black Mountain, a lively town with local shops and cafes.
For $229.99 per person, the tour provides personalized transport and a mix of wine, local shopping, and sightseeing. The review comments on the visual beauty of Silver Fork Winery, with its “breathtaking view overlooking vineyards.”
Bottom Line: This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed day combining wine, local flavors, and a walk through charming Black Mountain. It’s a great pick for those who enjoy fruit wines or prefer a more diverse experience.
$229.99 per person
How to Choose the Best Asheville Wine Tour
When selecting a wine tour, consider your budget, time available, and what kind of experience excites you most. If you want a luxurious, private day with scenic mountain views, the Grandfather Mountain tour or the Three Vineyards private tour are excellent options. For a shorter, casual outing, the 2 Vineyard Tour offers great value. Those interested in fruit wines or a local town experience might prefer the Black Mountain tour.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons. Also, check if the tour includes tastings, meals, or additional experiences, so you can choose based on your priorities.
To sum it up, Asheville offers a diverse array of wine tours suitable for romantic getaways, group outings, or curious travelers eager to learn about North Carolina’s wine heritage. Whether you opt for a private, scenic mountain adventure or a shorter tasting tour, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. Remember, booking early ensures you get your preferred date—so pick your adventure and raise a glass to North Carolina’s wine country.