This newcomer at the southern gateway to the Yadkin Valley is the result of NASCAR team owner Richard Childress’ passion for great wine. “It’s been my dream to locate a winery in my native state and create world-class wines,” Richard says. The winery currently grows 72 acres of 12 European varieties. Under the expert guidance of Winemaker Mark Friszolowski, Childress offers a healthy portfolio of award-winning varietals, reserves, signature, dessert, sparkling and Muscadine wines. Childress Vineyards was recently selected as one of America’s top 25 tasting rooms by Wine Enthusiast magazine. Reminiscent of a Tuscan villa, the 35,000-square-foot building features a state-of-the art winery open daily for educational tours, lunch at The Bistro, a seasonal concert series, and an elegant Banquet Room for wedding receptions and corporate events. Walking trails and a picnic area now link the winery to a new hotel near the vineyards making Childress Vineyards a year-round destination.