Dobbins Creek Vineyards

Location & Atmosphere: Dobbins Creek feels way out in the country, but it is really not far off I-77. As you approach the log-built tasting building, it feels like you have reached the old farm homestead. When you park and walk up on the extensive porch of the building, you realize that you are on the highest point of land in the surrounding area, with a great view of the tall buildings of Winston-Salem 43 miles east, and the Blue Ridge Mountains about 30 miles west. Having a glass of wine on the porch, we had a nice chat with the vineyard owner, Charles King.

The Wines: White wines include a dry Riesling and Chardonnay. Red wines include Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. They produce two red blends from their estate grown reds, one is a rose, and the other called Ram Cat Red. All are good to very good. They also carry two semi-sweet wines, Hemric Mountain Red, with a hint of blackberry, and a sweet Riesling, which were less impressive, but we do not like sweeter wines.

Tastings & Tours: Tastings cost $8, and include 8 of their 9 wines, and an etched souvenir glass. Glasses of wine on the premises are $8 each. Tours are not offered.
Events/ Shopping/ Other Amenities: There are minimal shopping opportunities, but there are a number of events that Dobbins Creek sponsors in conjunction with other wineries in the area: Laurel Grey, Windsor Run and Silver Springs, which they call the Swan Creek Wine Trail. Events include the French Quarters Wine Dinner and Herb Festival, and a wine and chocolate, and wine and cheese event.
Value: Dobbins Creek wine is a very fair value for the money, at $16 to $31 per bottle. Their tastings and glasses of wine are also quite reasonable at $8 each.
Rating: The fantastic “mountaintop” type view at the tasting log building is quite memorable. Joining forces with other small wineries in the area is a great way to offer some serious events. With good to very good wine and a great farm atmosphere, we rate Dobbins Creek at four-stars.