Cape Fear Vineyard and Winery in Elizabethtown, in the heart of the Cape Fear region halfway between Wilmington and Fayetteville. The winery and Cape Fear Distillery have emerged as a boutique resort in rural southeastern North Carolina. Although in the middle of a rural area, they offer luxurious lodging, an award-winning restaurant, a world-class art gallery and host special events, weddings and concerts. Lately, they have attracted national acts such as Jo Dee Messina, Uncle Kracker, Joe Nichols, 38 Special and iconic Rock and Roll photographer, Henry Diltz. The restaurant is filled with rich memorabilia that would interest any music and art fan. They are currently expanding by building 5 more cottages, a spa and a gift shop.

Our beach trips involve sitting on the beach doing very little, but the North Carolina coastal region has wineries that are worth getting off the beach and going for a road trip. We visited Cape Fear Winery in late May. We stopped in for a fantastic charcuterie board at The Cork Room. I enjoyed the Cape Fear Chardonnay. Charles enjoyed the Cape Fear Reserve Red. After our wine tasting we explored the property and found a few treasures. They have llamas that come right up to you to pet. We didn’t get to the winery in time for a tasting at the distillery, but we will make it a priority on our next visit. Cape Fear is rich in great tasting wines and beautiful views to enjoy a glass or bottle.