Faces of Elkin: Chuck & Diana Jones
Growing More Than Grapes
When Chuck and Diana Jones first began searching for land to plant a vineyard, they weren't looking for just anywhere. They were searching for the perfect combination of soil, elevation, and climate to grow exceptional grapes. That search ultimately led them to Elkin and the Yadkin Valley AVA.
What they didn't expect to find was a place that would become home.
"Looking back," they shared, "choosing Elkin was one of the best decisions we ever made."
Watching Elkin Grow
Over the years, Jones von Drehle Vineyards & Winery has become one of the region's premier wineries, welcoming guests from across the country to experience award-winning wines, live music, and unforgettable events. But for Chuck and Diana, one of their greatest joys has been watching Elkin grow alongside them.
"When we first came here, downtown was much quieter," they said. "Today, it's full of energy."
They've watched new restaurants open, trails expand, wineries flourish, and live music become part of the community's identity. They've seen visitors arrive for an afternoon and leave already planning their next trip.
"It's been rewarding to watch that transformation and know that Jones von Drehle has been able to contribute in its own small way by bringing people together over wine, music, and shared experiences."
A Community That Shows Up
That spirit of connection is one of the things they admire most about Elkin.
"The people welcomed us from the very beginning," they said. "There's a genuine spirit of collaboration here."
Rather than competing, local businesses, volunteers, community leaders, and neighbors work together because they believe that when Elkin succeeds, everyone benefits. That mindset has helped shape the welcoming atmosphere visitors experience every day.
Whether supporting a local family, celebrating a new business, or volunteering for a community project, they've learned that Elkin is a place where people genuinely show up for one another.
"People don't just live here—they invest in each other."
The Trails That Connect It All
Chuck and Diana are especially inspired by Elkin's growing trail system and the vision behind it. The network of trails connecting downtown, the Yadkin River, parks, wineries, and the surrounding Blue Ridge foothills has become one of the community's defining features.
"The trails encourage people to explore, stay longer, and experience everything the community has to offer."
Combined with local restaurants, wineries, outdoor recreation, and live entertainment, they believe those connections have helped Elkin become a destination while preserving the small-town character that makes it so special.
Creating Lasting Memories
Throughout the year, some of their favorite moments are the festivals, concerts, and community celebrations that bring everyone together.
"Those are the moments that create lasting memories."
It's a philosophy they've embraced through their own business, creating a place where friends gather, families celebrate, and visitors discover everything the Yadkin Valley has to offer.
When asked what makes Elkin such a wonderful place to live, their answer was simple: balance.
"You have the beauty and peace of a small town, yet there's always something to experience."
Whether that's hiking a trail, enjoying a local restaurant, listening to live music, or sharing a bottle of wine with friends, life here is centered on community rather than crowds.
One Word: Connected
Describing the people of Elkin, Chuck and Diana chose words like genuine, welcoming, and invested.
"They're proud of where they live, but they're also welcoming to others who visit and move here. They celebrate each other's successes, support one another through challenges, and have an optimism about Elkin's future that's contagious."
And if they had to describe Elkin in just one word?
Connected.
Connected to the outdoors. Connected through local businesses and community organizations. Most importantly, connected through people who genuinely care about one another.
It's that connection that convinced Chuck and Diana they had found more than the perfect place to grow grapes. They had found the perfect place to put down roots.
Visit Chuck & Diana at Jones von Drehle Vineyards & Winery
If you're looking for award-winning wines, beautiful vineyard views, and a welcoming place to gather with friends and family, be sure to visit Chuck and Diana at Jones von Drehle Vineyard & Winery.
Hours: Wednesday–Sunday
Address: 964 Old Railroad Grade Road, Thurmond, NC
Phone: (336) 874-2800
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