The history of the property that houses Grassy Creek Vineyard & Winery includes a family getaway for both the Chatham and Hanes families, the Klondike dairy farm until the mid 1950s, and a company entertainment facility for Chatham Manufacturing. The Chatham and Hanes families purchased Guernsey cattle to start Klondike farm and the dairy produced whole milk, buttermilk, and “the best chocolate milk in the world.” When you go to the tasting room at Grassy Creek, formerly the stables, the manager Wayne Moore, will tell you the story behind the bottles and of the famous cow, Klondike, who traveled in 1933 on an expedition to the Antarctic Circle.
The Chatham family farm was placed in the hands of Chatham Manufacturing, which made wool products, some of which were blankets and clothing for the military during World War II. They used it as an official guest house for potential clients, temporary housing, and for celebrating holidays. The owners of the Grassy Creek Vineyard & Winery include Jim & Cynthia Douthit, Derrill & Lori Rice, Larry and Lynn Nycum, and Steve & Peggi Clark, all of whom have a passion for wine. Derrill Rice purchased the farm while he was President of Chatham Manufacturing and asked Jim to consider joining him to create the vineyard and winery. He knew how rich the history of the property was and how special it was for many people in the community so he wanted to save the farm. Soon after in 2002 and 2003, 20 acres of grapes were planted and the journey began by opening the tasting room in 2005.
Jim & Cynthia are the managing owners of Grassy Creek Vineyard - Jim makes the wine and Cynthia is in charge of marketing. Jim’s passion has always been winemaking and has worked with Portuguese winemakers in Massachusetts and also studied enology at Surry Community College. Before becoming owners of the vineyard, Jim & Cynthia lived in Statesville, North Carolina and planted 10 acres of grapes in nearby Troutman.
Derrill & Lori are the owners of Klondike Cabins while Lynn Nycum assists in the winery making the wine with Jim. The Klondike Cabins consist of 4 cabins built by the Hanes & Chatham families. These cabins offer the perfect escape for guests with plenty of land to explore and enjoy. Guests can also just cozy up in the cabin next to the fireplace and be surrounded by beautiful antique decor and wood beams that will take you back in time. Click here for more information: https://www.theklondikecabins.com/
The winery is housed inside one of the milking barns of the former dairy. Grassy Creek is known for creating exceptional dry red and white wines from vinifera grapes while the Klondike Farm brand focuses on semi-sweet wines with grapes for both primarily grown on the estate. Grassy Creek also supports locally made products by purchasing North Carolina food products which are available for sale in the tasting room with other wine related merchandise.
Wine Selection:
White - Riesling, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc
Red - Barbera, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Chambourcin, and Red Barn Blend, a blend of Merlot, Syrah & Sangiovese.
Semi-Sweet & Dessert- Guernsey Red, Golden Guernsey, Sunset Blush, and Perfect Pear
The Mountains to Sea Trail runs through the property and guests can hike to nearby Carter Falls only 2 miles away. Bring your dog, hike the trail and then enjoy some wine afterwards while sitting around a fire, inside or outside. You will experience a breath of fresh air, the beautiful countryside and scenery. The expanded tasting room which includes outdoor heaters, fire pits and a covered pavilion create a relaxing atmosphere that feels casual and comfortable. Be active by playing corn hole, frisbee, volleyball, and enjoy the greenspace next to the tasting room for kids and adults alike. Many events offered at Grassy Creek are non-ticketed live music and food trucks. Check the website and Facebook events for details.
During COVID-19, Grassy Creek is following all regulations and rules VERY CAREFULLY by reducing capacity and requiring all customers to wear masks.
Address, Phone, Website:
235 Chatham Cottage Circle
State Road, NC 28676
(336) 835-2458
Winter Hours (through March 31)
Thursday - Saturday 12pm-5pm
Sunday 1pm-5pm
Monday 12pm-5pm
Also by appointment. Email request to info@grassycreekvineyard.com
Written by: Rebecca Reece