A new winery north of Boone with mountain views

Mill Camp Wines & Ciders | A small, quiet winery north of Boone with mountain views and cider

Mill Camp Wines & Ciders opened in fall 2025, and it's the smallest of the High Country wineries — but it might have the best view. It's a father-and-son operation about 10 to 15 minutes north of Boone, which puts it in a different direction than the Banner Elk–Grandfather Mountain–Linville cluster most visitors gravitate toward.

The basics: About 10–15 minutes north of Boone on winding roads. Unlike Banner Elk Winery and Grandfather Vineyards, this one mostly isn't on the way to anything else — you're making a specific trip for it.

What it is: A newer winery and cidery run by a father-and-son team who use their own grapes as well as ones sourced from the Yadkin Valley. You can see some of the vineyards from the property. The building is modern and clean, with an indoor area and a deck with Adirondack chairs and fire pits for cooler days, and it contrasts with some of the junky nearby properties, but that’s the way it goes sometimes in rural North Carolina. The winery hosts occasional live music, food trucks and private events.

Mill Camp is quiet and unhurried. Banner Elk Winery has the lake and the lawn and room for a crowd. Mill Camp is smaller than both, and that's the point.

What to order: The cider selection sets Mill Camp apart from the others, so you might find that intriguing ($6-8 a glass). There are maybe 10 to 12 options ranging from dry to sweet, with flavored varieties like peach and cherry. The selection of wines ($8-11 a glass) is drinkable and approachable. Flights are available for both ($16 for four samples), which is the right move on a first visit, to sample a few and avoid locking in and committing to something that you might not like.

Good to know: The porch is what sets this place apart. Sitting out there, you get a clear, open view of the mountains that feels less like a winery visit and more like sitting on the deck of a mountain house you own, just gazing out at the ridgeline with a glass in your hand. They also sell basic snacks like pretzels and cheese. On the drive up and back, keep an eye out for deer. We counted a bunch both ways.

The move: Check the schedule before you go — live music or a food truck makes it even better. But on a clear afternoon, the porch alone is worth the detour. Like most wineries in the area, you’re here for the experience and the vibe. If you've already done the Banner Elk–Linville winery loop and want something different, this is it.