When you think of wine country, your mind might wander to California’s Napa Valley or Oregon’s Willamette. But tucked away in the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina has quietly become one of the most exciting wine destinations in the country. With soaring mountain backdrops, cooler elevations, and boutique vineyards crafting everything from crisp Chardonnays to bold Cabernets, the Tar Heel State offers an experience that rivals more famous regions—but with a distinctly Southern charm.
For travelers who want to savor every sip without the hassle of long drives or commercial airports, flying via private charter with Odyssey Airways offers the perfect gateway. Skip the lines, land close to the vineyards, and step right into a mountain escape where the pace slows down, the scenery stuns, and the wine flows freely.
Here’s a curated North Carolina wine trail itinerary, featuring some of the state’s best wineries, along with tips on how to make the most of your journey.
Day One: Arrival and the High Country Vineyards
Your private Odyssey Airways flight brings you into the mountains in comfort and style. From the sky, the Blue Ridge unfurls like a quilt of emerald and sapphire ridges—a fitting welcome for a weekend dedicated to nature, relaxation, and indulgence.
Your first stop is Banner Elk Winery North Carolina, located in the charming resort town of Banner Elk. Known for its small-batch, handcrafted wines, this vineyard sits at an elevation of over 3,500 feet. The cool climate allows varietals like Seyval Blanc and Marechal Foch to flourish, producing wines that are crisp, complex, and memorable. Banner Elk is also renowned for its blueberry wines, which are a must-try if you’re looking for something unique. Pair your tasting with the mountain views, and you’ll understand why this vineyard is considered a jewel of the High Country.
Just down the road, the Grandfather Mountain Winery North Carolina offers another can’t-miss tasting experience. Nestled along the Watauga River, this family-owned winery specializes in award-winning wines like its vibrant Viognier and its bold, velvety red blends. With Grandfather Mountain towering in the background, sipping a glass of their Cabernet Sauvignon feels like drinking in the landscape itself. Visitors often linger here, enjoying a picnic on the riverbank or simply soaking in the serenity.
For your evening, consider booking a private cabin in Banner Elk or nearby Blowing Rock. With fireplaces, hot tubs, and mountain vistas, the accommodations are as much a part of the experience as the wineries themselves.
Day Two: Linville’s Scenic Sips
The next day, continue your wine journey at Linville Winery North Carolina, where rustic charm meets elegant winemaking. This boutique vineyard is known for its welcoming, laid-back atmosphere and its stunning setting along the Linville River. The wines here lean into European varietals, with crisp whites and approachable reds that reflect the terroir of the Blue Ridge.
Beyond the wine, Linville is a destination in itself. The nearby Linville Gorge Wilderness—often called the “Grand Canyon of the East”—offers breathtaking views and scenic hikes. You can easily blend your wine tasting with an afternoon outdoors, making this day a balance of activity and indulgence.
In the evening, take advantage of Odyssey Airways’ flexibility. With a private charter, you’re not tied to a commercial flight schedule. Whether you want to linger over a long dinner in Linville or take a short hop to another local airfield closer to your next stop, your journey is tailored entirely around you.
Day Three: Hendersonville and the Crest of the Blue Ridge
On your final day, your itinerary takes you to Henderson County, home to the state’s Crest of the Blue Ridge AVA—a federally recognized wine-growing region producing some of the best wines in North Carolina.
Begin at Burntshirt Winery North Carolina, where award-winning vintages are paired with sweeping vineyard views. The name comes from a local legend: farmers believed that burying a burnt shirt in the soil ensured a bountiful crop. Today, the winery is known for its Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Grüner Veltliner, each capturing the unique character of Hendersonville’s cool mountain climate. With a welcoming tasting room, live music, and special events, Burntshirt offers an atmosphere that feels both elevated and inviting.
If time allows, you can explore nearby Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards or Point Lookout Vineyards for even more variety. Hendersonville also has a charming downtown filled with boutique shops, cafes, and local art galleries—perfect for strolling before heading back to your private charter.
Why Travel by Private Charter with Odyssey Airways?
While North Carolina’s wine regions are tucked into some of the most scenic corners of the state, getting there isn’t always simple. Commercial flights often mean long drives from the nearest airports, crowded security lines, and lost hours that could be better spent sipping wine.
By choosing Odyssey Airways, you eliminate those hassles:
- Direct access to regional airports near Banner Elk, Linville, and Hendersonville, placing you closer to the vineyards.
- Flexible scheduling—your flight leaves when you’re ready, not the other way around.
- Private comfort with plush seating, privacy, and amenities designed to enhance your journey.
- Stress-free travel so you can focus on enjoying your wine country escape.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a group trip with friends, or even a corporate retreat, private charter elevates the entire experience. It’s not just about getting to the vineyards—it’s about making the journey part of the adventure.
A Trail Worth Tasting
From the High Country to Hendersonville, the vineyards of North Carolina prove that world-class wine can be found in unexpected places. Banner Elk Winery North Carolina, Grandfather Mountain Winery North Carolina, Linville Winery North Carolina, and Burntshirt Winery North Carolina are just a few of the stops that make this state’s wine trail one of the best kept secrets in American viticulture.
Pair that with the ease and elegance of flying via Odyssey Airways, and you have an itinerary that’s as seamless as it is unforgettable. In just a long weekend, you can sip, savor, and explore some of the best wineries in North Carolina, all without ever feeling rushed.
So, the next time you’re craving a wine country escape, look beyond the usual suspects. North Carolina’s mountain vineyards are waiting—and with Odyssey Airways, getting there has never been easier.
