The future of North Carolina wine was hinted at as early as 1584, when Arthur Barlowe wrote Sir Walter Raleigh that the land was "full of grapes." Today, the state has over 60 wineries, with new ones opening daily, and over 350 vineyards. Boasting annual retail sales estimated at $34 million, North Carolina ranks 12th nationally in wine production and 10th in grape production. Since the first edition of this book was published in 2003, the number of wineries has almost tripled. Yadkin Valley, North Carolina's first federally recognized American Viticultural Area, has over 20 wineries and over 400 acres of vineyards.

Visitors to North Carolina's wineries have a wide range of wines to sample and a variety of activities from which to choose. In addition to touring and tasting, they can picnic, celebrate weddings or other events, listen to concerts, look at art, try their hand at horseshoes or Italian bowling, and even help in the vineyards.

A Guide to North Carolina's Wineries provides detailed portraits of the state's wineries. These include the history of each establishment, hours of operation, wine lists, and information about people who work in the industry.