Muscadine Wine Country, 30 to 60 Minutes from the Village
$6-$15 per tasting
Book direct via the vendor website
Muscadine wine is the local story here, and two vineyards within reach of Pinehurst do it well. Cypress Bend Vineyards in Wagram, about 45 minutes south, has won six NC State Fair Best of Show awards and pours tastings for $6. Hinnant Family Vineyards in Pine Level, roughly an hour east, runs tastings from free to $15 with broader hours.
Muscadine is a different beast from European varietals. The grape is native to the Southeast and produces a sweeter, fruit-forward wine that pairs with the regional cuisine. If you arrive expecting Napa cabernet, recalibrate. If you arrive open-minded, the tasting is often more interesting than expected. Cypress Bend's six State Fair wins are evidence that the quality is real, not regional pity. Neither vineyard is a casual detour, so build a rest-day excursion that combines the visit with a stop in one of the small towns along the route.
Cypress Bend Vineyards in Wagram, about 45 minutes south. Hinnant Family Vineyards in Pine Level, about an hour east. Tastings $6 to $15. Check individual vineyard hours before going. Designated driver required.