There is a new tasting adventure waiting for those interested in small batch, carefully crafted libations. We invite you to follow the trail, meet the makers, soak up their stories, and sample the flavors of the Blue Ridge Traveler's Spirit Trail.
Vintners were the first group of makers to share their skills. Our terrain lends itself to cultivating varying types of grapes, using methods and styles that develop personalities reflected in the products of each boutique vineyard. These winemakers are passionate about what they do, working together and creating the very best wines to share with their loyal followers.
Silver Fork Winery, https://www.facebook.com/SilverForkWinery and South Creek Vineyards and Winery, https://www.facebook.com/southcreekvineyardswinery, are located close to the Lake James region. Linville Winery is a short detour from the Blue Ridge Parkway, at Milepost 316.4/Hwy. 221 North. If you're passionate about wine, appreciate the finesse and qualities found in smaller vineyards, we know you'll enjoy the time spent exploring these award winning wineries.
Keepers Cut Meadery offers a spin on a centuries old spirit, mead! The owners are beekeepers who decided to ferment and experiment with their honey varieties. The result is delicious! https://www.facebook.com/keeperscut
BEER! Craft beer road trip? Ten years ago, that phrase wasn't heard of. Today, western North Carolina is filled with locally owned craft breweries, including those found in the Blue Ridge Traveler's neighborhoods.
Begin in Old Fort at Hillman Beer. The Hillman's opened a cool, creekside establishment and are not only known for their beers but also for the food! https://www.facebook.com/Hillman-Beer-Old-Fort-112641643496729
Also in Old Fort is the neighboring Whaley Family Farms Brewery. Whaley specializes in Appalachian Farm Beers. They grow the ingredients on their family farm to craft beers like their Lime Thyme Grisette and Heritage Barn Grape Lager. https://www.whaleyfarmbrewery.com/
Fifteen minutes away, park in downtown Marion for a tasting tour. With the exception of Copper Creek Distillery, all of these venues are within walking distance of one another.
Mica Town Brewing opened on New Year's Eve of 2017 as Marion's first brewery. Since then, the talented duo, owners Jason Snyder and Emily Causey, have expanded and recently opened a second location in Nebo, close to Lake James. https://www.micatownbrewing.com
Taylors Brewing is operated by two brothers and is located on W. Henderson Street. Stop by for a sub and a draft, new items are arriving soon. https://www.facebook.com/Taylors-Brewing-Co-842536962773215
If you'd like to expand the tasting experience stop by Refinery 13, this locally owned taproom rotates their 13 taps featuring regionally crafted beers. Ask about game night! https://www.facebook.com/Refinery13Taproom
Copper Creek Distillery, another Marion tasting experience. Handcrafted moonshine, brandy, and heirloom blends of your favorite spirits. https://www.facebook.com/Copper-Creek-Distillery-105778508028666/
Crabby Abbey's, is a great stop to enjoy a selection of brews, wine, or mixed drinks. Enjoy a sustainable seafood dinner while you're here.http://www.crabbyabbys.com/
