Part 6: Raising a Glass at Round Peak Vineyards

Located just a short, scenic drive from downtown Main Street, Round Peak Vineyards is a spectacular example of what makes Mount Airy so unique. It perfectly blends the town’s approachable, small-town charm with the sophisticated, laid-back energy of a premier wine destination.

Nestled at an elevation of 1,300 feet in the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this stunning 32-acre estate greets you with panoramic mountain views and rows of meticulously tended vines. It is a peaceful, estate-grown winery that captures the very best of the Yadkin Valley AVA (American Viticultural Area).

Round Peak specializes in dry French- and Italian-style wines. Whether you prefer a crisp, elegant Chardonnay, a robust Merlot, or a glass of their rare Nebbiolo—a grape that thrives uniquely well in this mountain soil—their tasting room offers a spectacular tour of the region’s terroir.

Wine Country Wonders: The Yadkin Valley AVA

• North Carolina’s First AVA

  Established in 2003, the Yadkin Valley was officially designated as North Carolina’s very first American Viticultural Area. Sharing similar climate traits and soil compositions with famous European regions like Piedmont, Italy, and the Rhône Valley in France, it is now home to over 40 wineries!

• A Niche for Every Palette

  The region is unique because it excels at growing both traditional Vitis vinifera European grapes (like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot) and native muscadine grapes, offering a diverse array of dry, sweet, and sparkling wines across Surry County.

• Neighboring Estates

  The wine trail surrounding Mount Airy includes remarkable destinations like Shelton Vineyards in nearby Dobson—one of the largest vineyards on the East Coast, complete with a full-service restaurant, walking trails, and a sprawling estate lodge.

More Than Just a Vineyard

But Round Peak is far more than just a vineyard; it is a vibrant social hub. The property features an expansive, covered back patio that serves as the perfect viewing deck for North Carolina’s legendary golden-hour sunsets. With regular live music events, a casual disc golf course winding through the vines, and an incredibly pet-friendly vibe (complete with a fenced, off-leash dog area), it is a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.

The Best of Both Worlds: Traveling with a craft beer lover? Round Peak also pours sweet wines, hard ciders, and local craft beers under their sister label, Skull Camp, ensuring there is a perfect pour for everyone at the table.

When people envision their ideal retirement, they often picture a lifestyle where they finally have the time to savor the finer things: exceptional wine, breathtaking scenery, great music, and meaningful conversations with close friends. The local wine scene delivers that exact lifestyle, right in your backyard.

Retiring in Mount Airy means you don’t have to drive to a crowded, stressful major city or fly across the country to enjoy premium wines or gorgeous estate settings. You can simply drive a few minutes out of the neighborhood, grab a tasting flight with friends, and spend a relaxing afternoon on the patio listening to acoustic music while taking in the fresh mountain air.

It is a place that fosters a deep sense of belonging and celebration. Whether you are hosting family visiting from out of town, meeting up with a weekly social group, or just enjoying a quiet Friday sunset, our local vineyards represent the reward of a life well-lived.