A Year-Round Guide to Franklin and Nantahala

Behind the tasting room at Round Peak Vineyard, a large patio overlooks the vine-covered foothills that disappear into the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s no wonder that when Kari Heerdt and

Rosemary and Goat Cheese Strata

Behind the tasting room at Round Peak Vineyard, a large patio overlooks the vine-covered foothills that disappear into the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s no wonder that when Kari Heerdt and

Round Peak Vineyard in Mount Airy

Behind the tasting room at Round Peak Vineyard, a large patio overlooks the vine-covered foothills that disappear into the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s no wonder that when Kari Heerdt and Ken Gulaian bought this vineyard in 2008, they immediately moved the winery equipment that was blocking the view.

Today, visitors gather around tables and grills with wine or beer in hand to take in the surrounding beauty. Locals and travelers alike come to this mountain paradise for picnics, bike rides around the 30-acre property, disc golf, and even to blend and bottle their own wine. And while Round Peak is known for its award-winning dry wines, Kari and Ken wanted to create something for everyone: They also serve sweeter wines, with fun names like Euphoria and Infatuation, as well as their own craft beer, under their Skull Camp brand.

They’re also the first in the state to can wine — making it easier to take it to the beach or the pool, kayaking or camping. “We try to be as casual and flexible as possible,” Kari says. “Everybody’s happy when they come to a winery. They’re coming here to have a fun, relaxing day and enjoy a great view.”


Round Peak Vineyard
765 Round Peak Church Road
Mount Airy, NC 27030
(336) 352-5595
roundpeak.com

This story was published on Jun 25, 2018

Katie King

Katie King is a managing editor at Our State.