A “little” Blue Ridge treasure!
Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, at mile marker 317, we found a wonderful surprise. After driving along the parkway for the day, we needed a break and saw that there was a winery nearby. We decided to search out this “little place” and see what it was like. We were so surprised to see that what we assumed was a “little winery” was a large and beautiful estate. Linville Falls Winery is hidden in the Blue Ridge Mountains, but it a very popular and busy place.
A member of the newly established (2016) Appalachian High Country AVA, the 40 acre vineyard includes varieties that grow at an elevation of 3,200 feet. The steep terrain, cool nights, and low humidity lead to superb growing conditions for cool wine varietals. The first grapes were planted when the owner, Jack Wiseman, was in his mid 70’s and the winery opened for business when he was 80 years old.
We were welcomed into the Tuscan styled tasting room with its’ beautiful artwork. There were a variety of tastings offered: dry, sweet, or a fortified wine tasting. We chose the dry tasting and enjoyed 6 different wines. 
After our tasting, we purchased a bottle of Chardonnay to enjoy on the outdoor, covered patio. There was a live band to enjoy and the grounds were beautiful to explore.
In addition to the winery, there is the Red Barn Tree Farm. The property actually started as a tree farm in the 1960’s and continues to grow trees to sell at the choose-n-cut farm.
After a visit to the winery, you can take a side trip to hike the beautiful Linville Falls on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
A wonderful day spent in the Blue Ridge Mountains!
Quantum Leap Winery is a unique destination in Florida. They do not make wines from the Florida native grape, Muscadine, but focus on creating great tasting wines from around the world. They do this by purchasing wine juice from small wineries in premier growing regions and then age, finish, blend, and package the wine in their facility. Their focus is on being environmentally friendly and reducing their carbon footprint in the process.
Upon arrival to this urban winery, you will notice the eclectic, artsy, vibrant neighborhood. Quantum Leap’s home is a former warehouse building and retains many of its industrial attributes. The interior is very open and inviting. There is a large central bar for tastings and an open area with ample tables, chairs, and couches. The exposed ductwork is visible against the high ceilings with plenty of lighting. Bright artwork adorns the walls, which you can purchase and there is an area in the corner for musical artists to perform. Outdoors, the prior loading dock serves as a covered porch area to sit a spell and enjoy great wine.
Steve and his wife Karen are owners of Tesla Vintners and The Singing Wine Maker. Their desire is to celebrate, “Truth, Beauty and Goodness through Wine, Music and Art.” This is apparent throughout the indoor and outdoor spaces. You are welcomed by beautifully carved wooden statues and a colorful flower garden that surrounds a lovingly refurbished home turned winery. Inside the bright colors and artwork continue. There is a large grapevine painted on the front of the wine tasting bar and vineyard inspired mural-like artwork adorn the walls.
Carrie Hanrahan Photography 