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The first vines for RayLen Vineyards & Winery were planted in 1999 when Joe and Joyce Neely purchased the property. From the date of purchase, Vintner Steve Shepard helped design the vineyard for optimum growth for the 10 different European varietals grown. In 2000, RayLen produced its first wines and opened its doors for tasting in 2001 with the completion of the Tasting Room. RayLen became a bonded winery in April of 2001 when only four other wineries in the Yadkin Valley existed. Today, there are over 20 wineries in the Yadkin Valley and over 60 wineries in the state. And, thanks to the Supermarket Guru Phil Lampert announcing on the Today Show on March 27, 2008, the nation now knows that “Napa is out, North Carolina is in.”
Steve Shepard has a long history in winemaking. His education and career began in Pennsylvania; since 1980, Steve has been making wine commercially. Drawn south, Steve’s North Carolina career began in 1989 at the first Yadkin Valley winery. The Yadkin Valley's unique microclimate and soils have proven to be optimal for growing European varietals. In its first three vintages, RayLen Vineyards & Winery won over 200 medals at various statewide, regional, and international competitions. Steve has been recognized by Robert Parker for his 1991 vintage wines, while RayLen has been lauded by the Wine Spectator as one of the premier wineries in the Southeast.
An easy drive from downtown Charlotte, Winston-Salem, and the Research Triangle, RayLen Vineyards & Winery is close enough to be your neighborhood winery.
Swirl, sip, and savor at RayLen Vineyards & Winery.
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