Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Davie County offers more than just scenic beauty and small-town charm—it’s also home to remarkable wineries that reflect the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just beginning to explore the world of wine, these local gems provide a perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and passion. Keep reading to learn more about Dove Vine, Lazy Elm, and Rayson wineries!
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Dove Vine Beverage
Dove Vine Beverage, founded by Nathan Dove, began in his mother’s basement in Huntersville, North Carolina, where a honey bee hive and an overabundance of honey sparked his winemaking journey. His early experiments, which he humorously noted did not result in anyone dying or going blind, inspired him to see what else he could create. What started as an experiment with mead soon expanded to include wines made from blueberries, bananas, peaches, and more.
Dove’s winemaking adventure took a giant leap forward in March 2019 when he visited Garden Gate to purchase some vine cuttings but ended up buying the entire vineyard. Dove Vine now offers a range of unique wines, from Orange Blossom Honey and Raspberry Nectar to Jalapeno and Banana. In an effort to be more sustainable, Dove Vine offers an innovative wine-on-tap system, which offers a brewery-style experience and reduces waste from bottles. With 19 different wines to choose from, Nathan offers a flight-tasting option that allows you to sample five wines to help narrow down your choices. After the tasting, you can enjoy a glass of your favorite on-site, either inside the tasting room or outside by the vineyard, or take some home to enjoy later. If your favorite wine isn’t available in a bottle, Dove Vine also offers a unique canning option where you can get any wine on tap canned, pressurized, and sealed right at the counter!
Nathan runs Dove Vine as a mostly one-man show with a quirky, laid-back style that’s evident in everything from his flexible hours to his no-frills website. Open to private events and pet-friendly, this winery has a welcoming atmosphere for all guests. For those looking for a truly unique, small-batch wine experience, Dove Vine Beverage is a must-visit.
- Address: 261 Scenic Dr, Mocksville, NC 27028
- Hours: Open most Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 6 p.m. and most Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. Check the website for posted closures.
- Contact: info@dovevinebev.com
Lazy Elm Vineyard and Winery
Lazy Elm Vineyard and Winery is a testament to the power of dreams, determination, and a deep love for the science of winemaking. Founded by Chris Bolcato, the journey to Lazy Elm began long before its tasting room opened in October 2013. It all started in New Jersey, where Chris, inspired by his Italian grandfather’s winemaking tradition, began crafting small batches of wine at home to share with family and friends.
Chris’s interest in winemaking quickly evolved into a fascination with the science behind it. A highly analytical thinker, he taught himself the intricate details of winemaking, ensuring every bottle was crafted with precision. He carefully balances sugar content for fermentation, maintains optimal pH levels, and ensures his wines are never too acidic. This meticulous approach results in wines that are both complex and highly enjoyable.
As Chris’s passion and skill for winemaking grew, he knew he wanted to take it to the next level and open his own winery, but he wasn’t sure where to begin. One day he was admiring a picture of Chimney Rock in his UPS wall calendar, and the next, he was researching the new Yadkin Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) and planning his move to North Carolina. Chris relocated in 2009 and spent time learning the ropes of grape growing and harvesting with Michael and Amy Helton at Hanover Park Vineyard. After more than three years of searching, he found the perfect 43-acre farm on Danner Road in Mocksville, NC, to bring his dream to life.
Lazy Elm Vineyard and Winery strikes the perfect balance between a relaxed atmosphere and exceptional wine. They specialize in dry reds, crafted in small batches, with smooth, less tannic profiles that are easy to enjoy. The award-winning signature red blend, Damn Yankee, is a must-try, showcasing estate-grown Petit Verdot, Mourvèdre, and Malbec. But they don’t stop at reds—they also offer excellent white wines, including the NC Fine Wine award-winning Traminette and Chardonnay. With an on-site distillery, they even create their own fortified dessert wines, like Selfish and Lazycello. For a truly personalized experience, partake in a wine tasting guided by Chris himself, where you can sample each of his carefully crafted wines and learn more about the passion and science behind every bottle. Whether you’re there with the family, the dog, or just some snacks, Lazy Elm’s relaxed, welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a wine-filled afternoon.
From a simple hobby to a lifelong dream realized, Lazy Elm Vineyard and Winery is a place where passion, science, and persistence have truly paid off.
- Address: 523 Danner Road, Mocksville, NC 27028
- Hours: Open Friday-Sunday from 12-6pm
- Contact: chris@lazyelm.com
Rayson Vineyard and Winery
Nestled on a property graced by vines planted 23 years ago, Rayson Vineyard and Winery is a family-owned and veteran-owned establishment with a rich history and a dedication to the craft of winemaking. The name “Rayson” is a heartfelt tribute to the owners’ two sons, Joey and Logan Ray, symbolizing the deep familial roots that anchor the winery.
Rayson Vineyard and Winery was formerly known as RayLen Vineyards & Winery, founded by Joe and Joyce Neely 24 years ago. Coincidentally, RayLen was also named as a tribute to Joe and Joyce’s daughters, Rachel and Len. The Neelys transformed a former Davie County dairy farm into one of North Carolina’s top wineries, helping to shape and grow the state’s wine industry. When JOLO Winery and Vineyard owners JW and Kristen Ray purchased the property in 2023, they carried forward the Neelys’ legacy while adding their own unique vision. They reopened as Rayson in December 2023, with plans to introduce single-varietal wines and incorporate food into the tasting experience.
Rayson Vineyard and Winery is all about celebrating the art of winemaking. They focus on crafting wines that highlight the distinct terroir of their land and the unique characteristics of each grape. With a collection of seven distinctive wines, including dry whites, rosé, barrel-aged whites, and complex red blends, there’s something for every wine lover to enjoy.
Adding to Rayson’s appeal is their newly opened full-scale restaurant, Bistro Europa. Though only open since May, the restaurant has already been awarded the 2024 Diners’ Choice Award from Open Table. While the indoor dining room is still in the design phase, guests can enjoy a delightful meal in the charming outdoor seating areas. Relax on the covered patio at high-top tables, unwind at bistro tables on the Veranda, or enjoy a picnic on the picturesque lawn. Bistro Europa aims to provide an unparalleled dining experience with a friendly and knowledgeable team that feels like an extension of the Rayson family. Their delicious menu is available Thursday through Sunday, with dining reservations required.
Rayson’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the bottle, offering guests a world-class experience in a serene, adults-only setting. Although pets and outside food are not allowed, the winery’s welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect escape for those looking to enjoy fine wine in a peaceful environment.
- Address: 322 Brix Ln, Mocksville, NC 27028
- Hours: Wednesday 11am-7pm, Thursday-Saturday 11am-9pm, Sunday 11am-6pm
- Contact: info@raysonwine.com
Wine Tasting Tips
When visiting the wineries in Davie County, take a moment to savor the full experience of wine tasting. If you’re new to wine tasting, here are a few tips to enhance your experience. Start by holding your glass up to the light and admiring the wine’s color and clarity—this can tell you a lot about what’s in your glass. Give the wine a gentle swirl to release its aromas, then take a deep breath and enjoy the scents released. When you take a sip, let the wine linger on your palate, allowing the flavors to unfold. Don’t be afraid to ask questions—the winemakers love sharing their passion and knowledge. And remember, wine tasting is a personal experience, so trust your palate and enjoy the journey!
Plan Your Visit Today
Davie County’s wineries are more than just places to enjoy a glass of wine—they’re destinations where you can immerse yourself in the beauty and bounty of North Carolina’s wine country. Each of these wineries—Dove Vine, Lazy Elm, and Rayson—offers a unique experience that will leave you eager to return. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a special celebration, or simply looking to explore something new, these wineries are ready to welcome you with open arms and a glass of their finest wine. Cheers!
