Raffaldini Vineyards and Winery LLC

Raffaldini Featured on Good Day New York / Appetito Magazine with Author/Chef Andrew Cotto

This morning celebrity chef and author Andrew Cotto joined the cast of Good Morning New York in New York City to talk about Roman Dishes and festivities surrounding Easter in Italy. During the segment Andrew debuted two dishes and recommended the Raffaldini Patrimonio as the perfect pairing! Our very own Jay Raffaldini was also recently featured on Andrew's Web Site.

Andrew Cotto is an award-winning author of seven novels and the Co-founder of the digital publication Appetito: Italian Food & Drink. As a journalist, Andrew has contributed regularly to The New York Times, La Cucina Italiana, Men’s Journal, Brooklyn Magazine, the Good Men Project, the Brooklyn Eagle and Rachael Ray In Season. He has also written extensively for other publications, including Parade, Rolling Stone, Condé Nast Traveler, Italy magazine, AARP, Italy Segreta, The Florentine, Huffington Post, Teachers & Writers Magazine, 6sq.ft., Salon, Maxim, Babble, Life of Dad, Relish, and numerous edible publications. Andrew lives in Brooklyn, NY.

andrewcotto.com


 

Toast our New Vino Botanico Release with Jensen Savannah

Charlotte's very own Jensen Savannah joined us for the release of our next flight of Vino Botanico. Joining the wildly successful Strawberry & Basil are Peach & Orange Blossom, Watermelon & Mint, Pomegranate & Hibiscus—each a refreshing fusion of artisanal botanicals with the Raffaldini wine you already know and love. 

Enjoy some highlights from Jensen's Visit and watch the full reel here. 

Welcome Spring! 

Spring has officially sprung in the vineyard! Bud break is underway, which means the vines are starting to wake up from the winter—tiny buds are popping open with the first leaves of the season. This marks the beginning of the growing cycle, and everything is beginning to look fresh and green. It’s an exciting time of year with beautiful weather and amazing views. Enjoy these photos of Raffaldini in bloom from our dear friends Monty and Brenda Combs.

Spend the Weekend with Us!

Four Seasons Wine Tasting Dinner: Spring
Saturday, May 3 | 6:30pm - 9:00pm
Click to View Menu

The Four Seasons Wine Tasting Dinners are held Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter and are hosted by Jay Raffaldini. Each dinner features four seasonal food courses and four specially chosen wines to complement the food. Culinary and wine descriptions will be given during the evening to enhance your enjoyment. This is an opportunity to share your food and wine passion with like-minded friends. The atmosphere will be relaxed and casual with a focus on meeting new friends and enjoying la dolce vita.

Please note that shuttle service tickets must be purchased separately. Shuttle service is available from The Fairfield Inn in Elkin or The Hampton Inn in Jonesville.

Take a Hike
Sunday, May 4th | 9:45am-1:00pm

Join owner Jay Raffaldini and long time NC resident and outdoors-man Steve Nelson, as they show you the way through the Raffaldini woods and vineyards. Wear sensible walking shoes and prepare yourself for a moderate 90 minute hike followed by a hearty luncheon which of course includes wine! During the hike, Jay will share details of the vineyard and Steve will share his love of the woods. Ticket includes a guided hike, lunch and two glasses of wine.   

2025 NC Fine Wines Awards Gala
Wine and Dine with the Stars of the Wine Industry for A Cause

Friday May 9th | 6:45pm - 10:00pm

Welcome to the ultimate celebration of North Carolina's finest wines! Join us for a night of elegance and indulgence at the Millennium Center. Sip on award-winning wines, mingle with fellow wine enthusiasts, and witness the announcement of the best of the best wines. This in-person event promises an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, cheers, and of course, exceptional wines. Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of North Carolina's top-notch winemaking talents.

Get your taste buds ready for a night to remember. We'll greet you with a dry sparkling wine while you check in, and then you'll enjoy six wines paired with dinner. It's a night to get dressed up and enjoy Winston-Salem, the Gateway to the Vineyards. 

Questions: 
email info@NCFineWines.com 
or call  336.721.1422

Dress:  A night to get dressed up. Black Tie optional (most men come with a Jacket, women are in cocktail dresses)
 

Mother's Day Tiramisu Making Class
Sunday, May 11 | 1:00PM - 3:00PM

Come spend the afternoon with us at Raffaldini Vineyards learning how to make tiramisu—the creamy Italian dessert everyone loves. Chef Nguyet, owner of Nougat Desserts, will walk you through each delicious layer while you sip wine and snack on some tasty bites. 

Looking for a sweet way to celebrate Mother's Day or just enjoy delicious desserts and amazing wine? Either way, this class is the perfect treat. 

Your ticket includes the demo, recipe cards, a serving of tiramisu, small bites, and of course, wine. Class begins at 1:00 PM on Sunday, May 11, 2025, in the Fattoria. Spots are limited, so grab yours before they’re gone!

Fresh Pasta Making Class with Chef Tony
Sunday, May 18, 2025 | 1:00PM - 3:00PM
 
Also, the spring section, maybe center the words and add something like this. Feel free to edit:
Spring has officially sprung in the vineyard! Bud break is underway, which means the vines are starting to wake up from the winter—tiny buds are popping open with the first leaves of the season. This marks the beginning of the growing cycle, and everything is beginning to look fresh and green. It’s an exciting time of year with beautiful weather and amazing views. Enjoy these photos of Raffaldini in bloom from our dear friends Monty and Brenda Combs.
 

Buona Pasqua - Easter At Raffaldini Vineyards 

Family Day, Easter Egg Hunt (1pm) and Cheese Roll, and Baby goats from White Tree Farm!

Bring the whole family on Easter Sunday for a Children’s Easter Egg Hunt and the traditional La Ruzzola Del Formaggio (Italian Easter Cheese Roll), and baby goats!

La Ruzzola Del Formaggio competitions will take place Sunday on the lawn of the Villa. La “Ruzzola," a traditional Italian game of the rolling of the large wheels of cheese, dates back 3000 years to the Etruscan Tomb of the Olympiads but is now played every Easter in many Italian farming villages. Prizes will be awarded for each winner who can roll their cheese closest to the target. 

Food Trucks

Saturday, April 19 – Dogs R Us
Sunday, April 20 – Sandwich Express

Saturday, April 26 - Dogs R Us
Sunday, April 20 – Love and Butter


Upcoming Family Days 

Friday, April 18 - Good Friday
Sunday, April 20 - Easter Sunday

Beyond the Vines...Into the Community


Fill your Cup for a Cause - Raffaldini Supports Second Harvest Food Bank
Join us for Empty Bowls, -  April 23 (11am-6pm)
Second Harvest Food Bank - 3330 Shorefair Dr. Winston-Salem, NC

This year, your ticket buys more than just a meal; it's a heartwarming Italian culinary experience that nourishes both body and soul.

Enjoy a delicious soup for two, crafted from classic Italian recipes by our skilled chefs, and served in unique, handcrafted pottery bowls, made with care by Sawtooth School artists and our community. Each bowl symbolizes the strength and resilience of our neighbors, and your support in empowering local families. Complete your meal with fresh bread, dessert, and a bottle of Raffaldini wine to enjoy at home.

Remember, "TUTTO FA BRODO!" – every contribution matters, and together, we create something extraordinary.

Join us on April 23 (11am-6pm) at Second Harvest's headquarters for a drive-thru event, and help us make a difference, one bowl, one meal, one family at a time.
 

A Celebration of Flavor: Vino Botanico Wine Release – Saturday, April 12^th

Get ready for the unveiling of three exciting new flavors in our Botanical Sparkling Wine collection. Joining the wildly successful Strawberry & Basil are Peach & Orange Blossom, Watermelon & Mint, Pomegranate & Hibiscus—each a refreshing fusion of artisanal botanicals with the Raffaldini wine you already know and love.

At this event, you'll be among the first to sip and celebrate this new collection of wines. Choose a single tasting or indulge in a flight of all four. 

 
To celebrate the release of this wine we are working with Jensen Savannah.  Jensen Savannah is one of the leading social media content creators that specifically showcases the Best of the Carolinas.  As a passionate believer that great things can happen in this wonderful state, she has built up a large following on social media with those who deeply appreciate when she highlights something unique and special to be sought after. 

Squid Ink Linguini Demo Class
Sunday, April 6 | 1pm-3pm
 

Join us for an exciting hands-on cooking demo where Chef Tony will show you how to make fresh squid ink linguini from scratch! Take notes, sip some wine and try this amazing dish.

Ticket price includes:
Fun cooking demonstration with Chef Tony
Squid ink linguini puttanesca with shrimp Greek olives and capers in a fresh cherry tomato sauce 
Warm bread & olive oil on the side
Great wine to enjoy during the class

*Please note that the food prepared in this class contains seafood/shellfish

 Fattoria | 1 PM - 3 PM | 21+ only
Grab your ticket today and we will see you there!

Buona Pasqua - Easter At Raffaldini Vineyards 

Family Day, Easter Egg Hunt (1pm) and Cheese Roll, and Baby goats from White Tree Farm!

Bring the whole family on Easter Sunday for a Children’s Easter Egg Hunt and the traditional La Ruzzola Del Formaggio (Italian Easter Cheese Roll), and baby goats!

La Ruzzola Del Formaggio competitions will take place Sunday on the lawn of the Villa. La “Ruzzola," a traditional Italian game of the rolling of the large wheels of cheese, dates back 3000 years to the Etruscan Tomb of the Olympiads but is now played every Easter in many Italian farming villages. Prizes will be awarded for each winner who can roll their cheese closest to the target. 

Four Seasons Wine Tasting Dinner: Spring
Saturday, May 3 | 6:30pm - 9:00pm

The Four Seasons Wine Tasting Dinners are held Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter and are hosted by Jay Raffaldini. Each dinner features four seasonal food courses and four specially chosen wines to complement the food. Culinary and wine descriptions will be given during the evening to enhance your enjoyment. This is an opportunity to share your food and wine passion with like-minded friends. The atmosphere will be relaxed and casual with a focus on meeting new friends and enjoying la dolce vita.

Please note that shuttle service tickets must be purchased separately. Shuttle service is available from The Fairfield Inn in Elkin or The Hampton Inn in Jonesville.

Take a Hike
Sunday, May 4th | 9:45am-1:00pm

Join owner Jay Raffaldini and long time NC resident and outdoors-man Steve Nelson, as they show you the way through the Raffaldini woods and vineyards. Wear sensible walking shoes and prepare yourself for a moderate 90 minute hike followed by a hearty luncheon which of course includes wine! During the hike, Jay will share details of the vineyard and Steve will share his love of the woods. Ticket includes a guided hike, lunch and two glasses of wine.   

2025 NC Fine Wines Awards Gala - Wine and Dine with the Stars of the Wine Industry for A Cause

Friday May 9th | 6:45pm - 10:00pm

Welcome to the ultimate celebration of North Carolina's finest wines! Join us for a night of elegance and indulgence at the Millennium Center. Sip on award-winning wines, mingle with fellow wine enthusiasts, and witness the announcement of the best of the best wines. This in-person event promises an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, cheers, and of course, exceptional wines. Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of North Carolina's top-notch winemaking talents.

Get your taste buds ready for a night to remember. We'll greet you with a dry sparkling wine while you check in, and then you'll enjoy six wines paired with dinner. It's a night to get dressed up and enjoy Winston-Salem, the Gateway to the Vineyards. 

Questions: 
email info@NCFineWines.com 
or call  336.721.1422

Dress:  A night to get dressed up. Black Tie optional (most men come with a Jacket, women are in cocktail dresses)
 

Food Trucks

Saturday, April 5 – Love and Butter
Sunday, April 6 – Love and Butter

Saturday, April 12 – Dogs R Us
Sunday, April 13 – Ebony's Fish Fry

Saturday, April 19 – Dogs R Us
Sunday, April 20 – Sandwich Express

Saturday, April 26 - Dogs R Us
Sunday, April 20 – Love and Butter


Upcoming Family Days 

Friday, April 18 - Good Fridqy
Sunday, April 20 - Easter Sunday


SAVE THE DATE:

Sunday, May 18 - Fresh Pasta Making Class

Beyond the Vines...Into the Community

This year, your ticket buys more than just a meal; it's a heartwarming Italian culinary experience that nourishes both body and soul.

Enjoy a delicious soup for two, crafted from classic Italian recipes by our skilled chefs, and served in unique, handcrafted pottery bowls, made with care by Sawtooth School artists and our community. Each bowl symbolizes the strength and resilience of our neighbors, and your support in empowering local families. Complete your meal with fresh bread, dessert, and a bottle of wine to enjoy at home.

Remember, "TUTTO FA BRODO!" – every contribution matters, and together, we create something extraordinary.

Join us on April 23 (11am-6pm) at Second Harvest's headquarters for a drive-thru event, and help us make a difference, one bowl, one meal, one family at a time.
 

“Per Vitem! Ad Vitam! 
Jay Raffaldini Confirmed as Master Knight in Order of the Knights of the Vine
  

Our very own Jay Raffaldini has been honored with knighthood by the esteemed Knights of the Vine. On February 15, 2025, at the Four Seasons Wine Dinner, Jay was inducted as a Master Knight. The ceremony was steeped in tradition and ceremony, as distinguished members of the North Carolina Chapter—each bearing symbols of honor such as the ceremonial tastevin, the lapel pin, and the sacred sword—celebrated his outstanding contributions to the wine industry.

This momentous event was a true celebration of both heritage and excellence in winemaking. Inspired by enduring words from pioneers of the wine industry, the ceremony highlighted the deep-rooted passion for wine that unites us all. As we toast to Sir Jay's remarkable achievement, we invite you to join us in celebrating a legacy of quality, innovation, and dedication at Raffaldini Vineyards—where every bottle is a tribute to a timeless craft.

Featured Events


Spring Wine Club Release

Saturday & Sunday, March 8-9 | 1:00PM - 3:00PM (Sold out!)
Saturday & Sunday, March 15-16 | 1:00PM - 3:00PM (Sold out!)

**If you weren’t able to sign up for a Wine Club Pickup Party, no worries! Stop by our tasting room to sample our newest releases and pick up your spring wine club package—we’d love to celebrate with you here!**

We invite you to our much-anticipated Spring Wine Club Pickup Experience at Raffaldini Vineyards, happening on two weekends, Saturday & Sunday, March 8th - 9th from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Saturday and Saturday & Sunday, March 15th - 16th  from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the winery.

On Saturday and Sunday, Jay Raffaldini and Chris Nelson will give a fun and educational (if Chris has his way) presentation about the wine club wines. Their presentation will start at 1:00 PM on both days. Raffle drawings will take place immediately following each session (You must be present to win and be a current wine club member). 

Saint Patrick's Day
Monday, March 17 | 11:00AM - 5:00PM

Looking for a fun way to celebrate this St. Patrick’s Day? Swing by Raffaldini Vineyards on Monday, March 17th for a fun, family-friendly day! We’ve got Mo Empanadas food truck, great wine, and festive treats. Plus, the kiddos can enjoy St. Paddy’s-themed activity sheets while you raise a glass with friends to good luck and great wine.

Montepulciano Salon Tasting
Saturday, March 22 | 1:00PM - 3:00PM

Enjoy the experience of joining Owner Jay Raffaldini and Winemaker Chris Nelson in an exclusive Raffaldini Montepulciano Salon Tasting. Held in the tank room of the winery, guests will enjoy a blind tasting of our beloved Montepulciano wine going up blind against some of the greatest Montepulciano wines in the world. Charcuterie plates will be served along with the wines. 

Hands-On Pizza Making Class
Sunday, March 30 | 1pm-3pm

Come spend the day with us and learn how to make the perfect Margherita-style pizza from scratch! Chef Tony will walk you through:

Making easy, delicious pizza dough
Using fresh, tasty toppings
Baking your own pizza to enjoy
Of course, you will be sipping on great wine while you cook.

No fancy skills needed—just good wine, food, and a fun time!

📍 Fattoria | 1 PM - 3 PM | 21+ only

Spots are limited—grab yours now!

Squid Ink Linguini Demo Class
Sunday, April 6 | 1pm-3pm
 

Join us for an exciting hands-on cooking demo where Chef Tony will show you how to make fresh squid ink linguini from scratch! Take notes, sip some wine and try this amazing dish.

Ticket price includes:
Fun cooking demonstration with Chef Tony
Squid ink linguini puttanesca with shrimp Greek olives and capers in a fresh cherry tomato sauce 
Warm bread & olive oil on the side
Great wine to enjoy during the class

*Please note that the food prepared in this class contains seafood/shellfish

 Fattoria | 1 PM - 3 PM | 21+ only
Grab your ticket today and we will see you there!

Food Trucks

Saturday, March 1 – Love and Butter
Sunday, March 2 – Love and Butter

Saturday, March 8 – Love and Butter
Sunday, March 9 – Love and Butter

Saturday, March 15 – Dogs R Us
Sunday, March 16 – Southern Noodle
Monday, March 17 (St. Patrick's) – Mo Empanada

Saturday, March 22 – Love and Butter
Sunday, March 23 – Dogs R Us

Saturday, March 29 – Dogs R Us
Sunday, March 30 – Sandwich Express


Upcoming Family Days 

Monday March 17 - St. Patrick's Day


SAVE THE DATE:

Sunday, May 18 - Fresh Pasta Making Class

Beyond The Vines...Into The Community


As part of our commitment to supporting the arts in our community, we are excited to highlight Piedmont Opera's upcoming production of "Man of La Mancha." This celebrated musical, inspired by Miguel de Cervantes' classic novel "Don Quixote," tells the story of an idealistic knight's quest to bring hope and justice to the world. The original 1965 production won five Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and continues to resonate with audiences today. Performances are scheduled for March 23 at 2:00 PM, and March 25 and 28 at 7:30 PM, at the High Point Theatre.

From Grapes to Greatness: Explore Our Appassimento Story​

When you arrive at Villa Raffaldini, you will now be greeted by a new wall layout that describes the Appassimento drying process used to make our full bodied, award winning red wines.  As the leading practitioner of the technique outside of Italy, we believe it is essential to our success. 

Squid Ink Linguini Demo Class
Sunday, April 6 | 1pm-3pm
 

Join us for an exciting hands-on cooking demo where Chef Tony will show you how to make fresh squid ink linguini from scratch! Take notes, sip some wine and try this amazing dish.

Ticket price includes:
Fun cooking demonstration with Chef Tony
Squid ink linguini puttanesca with shrimp Greek olives and capers in a fresh cherry tomato sauce 
Warm bread & olive oil on the side
Great wine to enjoy during the class

*Please note that the food prepared in this class contains seafood/shellfish

 Fattoria | 1 PM - 3 PM | 21+ only
Grab your ticket today and we will see you there!

Raffaldini Olive Oil Producer Featured in Olive Oil Times Magazine 

Raffaldini Olive Oil partner and Tamia CEO Pietro Re was recently featured in Olive Oil Times in an article discussing the organic transition among Italian olive farmers. It’s an insightful look at the dedication and challenges behind producing high-quality organic olive oil. Stay tuned for more exciting updates from these groves of gold! 

Four Seasons Wine Tasting Dinner: Spring
Saturday, May 3 | 6:30pm - 9:00pm

The Four Seasons Wine Tasting Dinners are held Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter and are hosted by Jay Raffaldini. Each dinner features four seasonal food courses and four specially chosen wines to complement the food. Culinary and wine descriptions will be given during the evening to enhance your enjoyment. This is an opportunity to share your food and wine passion with like-minded friends. The atmosphere will be relaxed and casual with a focus on meeting new friends and enjoying la dolce vita.

Please note that shuttle service tickets must be purchased separately. Shuttle service is available from The Fairfield Inn in Elkin or The Hampton Inn in Jonesville.

Join owner Jay Raffaldini and long time NC resident and outdoors-man Steve Nelson, as they show you the way through the Raffaldini woods and vineyards. Wear sensible walking shoes and prepare yourself for a moderate 90 minute hike followed by a hearty luncheon which of course includes wine! During the hike, Jay will share details of the vineyard and Steve will share his love of the woods. Ticket includes a guided hike, lunch and two glasses of wine.   

Food Trucks

Saturday, March 15 – Dogs R Us
Sunday, March 16 – Southern Noodle
Monday, March 17 (St. Patrick's) – Mo Empanada

Saturday, March 22 – Love and Butter
Sunday, March 23 – Dogs R Us

Saturday, March 29 – Dogs R Us
Sunday, March 30 – Sandwich Express


Upcoming Family Days 

Saint Patrick's Day
Monday, March 17 | 11:00AM - 5:00PM

Looking for a fun way to celebrate this St. Patrick’s Day? Swing by Raffaldini Vineyards on Monday, March 17th for a fun, family-friendly day! We’ve got Mo Empanadas food truck, great wine, and festive treats. Plus, the kiddos can enjoy St. Paddy’s-themed activity sheets while you raise a glass with friends to good luck and great wine.

Easter Weekend - La Pasqua April 19-20

SAVE THE DATE:

Sunday, May 18 - Fresh Pasta Making Class

Beyond The Vines...Into The Community


As part of our commitment to supporting the arts in our community, we are excited to highlight Piedmont Opera's upcoming production of "Man of La Mancha." This celebrated musical, inspired by Miguel de Cervantes' classic novel "Don Quixote," tells the story of an idealistic knight's quest to bring hope and justice to the world. The original 1965 production won five Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and continues to resonate with audiences today. Performances are scheduled for March 23 at 2:00 PM, and March 25 and 28 at 7:30 PM, at the High Point Theatre.