Divine Llama Vineyards

On Thursday, June 17th, I headed out on the byways to East Bent, NC. My journey started in Oak Ridge, NC on Hwy 150 W to Kernersville, NC. There I took Hwy 66N through Winston-Salem, crossing Hwy 52 and turning right onto Hwy 67 (Reynolda Rd.) Folks, this is a very calming and scenic way to avoid the interstates.
After about 5 miles on 67 the sign for Divine Llama Vineyard

http://www.divinellamavineyards.com/home.html appeared on my right at the turn into their driveway.

Up the hill I found a renovated and updated farmhouse with outside seating in both a great covered side porch and in the side yard.

Inside I found a cozy environment that included a tasting bar, tables and chairs and a small shop with wine related products for sale.

I was greeted by one of the owners, Tom Hughes, who was also the wine server of the day. Although not there on this day, Tom's wife, Julia, is a regular at the vineyard.
Tom's partner is Michael West and in addition to owning the vineyard, these two gentlemen are both architects in Winston –Salem. Tom’s firm is Thomas H. Hughes Architecture, PC, http://www.thharch.com/. Michael’s firm of West & Stem Architects’ PLLC is located in Bethania Mill. His wife, Patricia, has her own business, the General Store & Gallery, which is also located in Bethania Mill.

Tom was kind enough to spend a bit of time with me and through our conversation I learned that his interest in the wine business had been sparked as a result of visiting the various wineries with his wife. The couple was also looking to move into a more rural area. At the same time, Michael expressed interest in owning land and raising llamas. Tom pitched the vineyard idea and the rest fell into place. While visiting the Divine Llama, I was not only able to enjoy the vineyard and tasting room, but free to stroll the property and interact with llamas, a miniature donkey and minature horses.
The name Divine Llama came about during a family discussion. Tom’s son suggested using "Divine" as a way of describing the beautiful sunsets and the vines. The "Llama" part came from, well, I don't have to explain that you.
The part of his new business venture that Tom most enjoys is the people he meets. “They are all genuinely likeable.” he said. What does he enjoy the least? "The wine festivals because it is difficult to provide the level of service and time I believe is important to give each customer. It is impossible at festivals largely due to the crowds."

Tom and his partner emphasize that what is most important to them is the experience that an individual takes away after they visit. For me, it was a very pleasant and unique experience that I would strongly recommend.

Sunday, June 20th, the vineyard presents “It’s no tie, Dad. You’re the best!" as part of the Yadkin River Wine Trail- Mini Festival from 12-4PM. For more details visit theirwebsite.

Tasting Room
Thursday-Saturday: 12-5PM
Sunday: 1-5PM

Divine Llama Vineyards, LLC

5349 Macedonia Road

East Bend, NC 27018

(336) 699-2525

divinellamavineyards@yadtel.net

Look for our photo album of the Divine Llama Vineyard on our Facebook page this weekend.