A Look at N.C.'s Little Italy

Four wineries in Ronda pay hommage to their Italian roots

Ronda, North Carolina, has four wineries that produce Italian varietals such as Vermentino, Montepulciano and Sagrantino. Photo by Dathan Kazsuk.

By Dathan Kazsuk

In the rolling foothills of North Carolina's Yadkin Valley, the quaint town of Ronda has quietly earned the affectionate moniker of the state's "Little Italy," at least for us here at Screw it Wine & Spirits. This charming designation is no accident; it's a testament to the cluster of vineyards—Raffaldini Vineyards, Castello Barone Vineyards, Piccione Vineyards and Sotrio Vineyards—that have embraced their Italian heritage, crafting varietals like Vermentino and Montepulciano that transport visitors straight to the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany.

Jay Raffaldini is the owner of Raffaldini Vineyards. Photo by Dathan Kazsuk.

Raffaldini Vineyards

Perched atop a scenic hill, Raffaldini Vineyards stands as a beacon of Italian heritage in North Carolina. Known widely as "Chianti in the Carolinas," Jay Raffaldini has been instrumental in introducing and popularizing Italian varietals in the region. Raffaldini's portfolio boasts classically dry Italian-style wines, including Sangiovese Classico, Montepulciano Riserva, Vermentino and the big daddy—Grande Riserva. The estate's commitment to the Appassimento drying process—a technique that concentrates flavors by drying grapes before fermentation—sets its wines apart, offering depth and complexity reminiscent of Italy's finest. ​

Check out our video at Raffaldini for the release of its Grande Riserva!