Visiting Our Local Breweries, Wineries, and Cideries
As the vibrant colors of Fall settle across the High County, the autumn leaves are not the only things catching attention—our local breweries, wineries, and cideries are also in full swing, offering the perfect way to embrace the season. The majestic Blue Ridge Mountains provide not only breathtaking fall foliage but also an opportunity to savor local flavors crafted with care and tradition. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just looking for a way to spend a colorful fall afternoon, it can be found in Ashe County. So, grab your favorite sweater, hit the road and discover why Ashe County is the ultimate destination for leaf looking and freedom-loving the fall.
Boondocks Brewing – In the town of West Jefferson, NC
Known for its creative, seasonal brews, Boondocks Brewing embraces fall flavors by featuring ales and stouts that pair perfectly with cooler weather, like their locally famous "Tater Hill Oktoberfest" brew, made to celebrate the harvest season. Grab a seat outside and bring your four-legged companion or pair your beverage with one of their seasonal dishes inside or enjoy live music just down the street at the second location in downtown West Jefferson, Boondocks Brew Haus.
Molley Chomper Cidery – Lansing, NC
Molley Chomper Cidery in nearby Lansing offers a taste of local apple heritage for those who prefer hard cider. Molley Chomper's small-batch, hand-pressed ciders capture Ashe County’s rich apple-growing history in every sip. Offering a cozy atmosphere for sampling everything from dry, tart ciders to sweeter blends that highlight fall’s bounty, the Molly Chomper’s tasting room also displays the works of local artists.
After enjoying a crisp cider in Lansing, head back toward West Jefferson for a cozy wine tasting at Old Barn Winery.
Old Barn Winery - West Jefferson
Housed in a beautifully restored barn in West Jefferson, Old Barn Winery is a new favorite for wine lovers in Ashe County. This boutique winery offers a charming atmosphere where visitors can sip on wines crafted from North Carolina grapes and enjoy live local music near a warm, crackling firepit. In the fall, their cozy tasting room is the perfect place to relax with a glass of their popular red blend or one of their limited-edition seasonal wines. With the rustic setting and the surrounding mountain views, it is the ideal spot to enjoy an autumn day.
Grape and Grain – Town of West Jefferson, NC
For those who enjoy a variety of craft beverages, Grape and Grain on Jefferson Avenue in downtown West Jefferson is a go-to destination. Offering a curated selection of local craft beers, wines, and ciders, this specialty bottle shop has a taste for every palate. For the autumn season, Grape and Grain highlights fall ales and limited-edition wines perfect for enjoying by the fire. It is a must-visit for anyone wanting to explore the area’s rich beverage culture in a unique location.
Thistle Meadow Winery – Laurel Springs, NC
For wine enthusiasts who would like a more “off the beaten path” experience, Thistle Meadow Winery in Laurel Springs provides the perfect setting to enjoy a glass of Ashe County’s best. This family-owned winery offers a range of wines, from bold reds to crisp whites, to their fall-inspired wine, “Mountain Autumn,” a semi-sweet blend that's perfect for sipping around a firepit or with a charcuterie board as you take in the vibrant fall colors.
Visit West Jefferson this season!
Ashe County is the perfect destination for leaf looking and mountain adventures. With so many unique, locally crafted options, it is easy to design your own beverage tour through the heart of the Blue Ridge. Whether you are planning a weekend escape or lucky enough to call this area home, take the scenic route and discover the hospitality that defines our mountain community.
So, raise a glass to the season, support local makers, and make this fall one to remember!
