Stone Ashe: A Vineyard Rooted in Passion and the Spirit of Hendersonville

What began as a retirement dream for a father and his wife has blossomed into a family-owned vineyard and winery dedicated to crafting wines of exceptional character. Inspired by the celebrated wine regions of Bordeaux and Burgundy, their journey started with a bold idea: to create wines that rival those from across the globe, right here on their carefully chosen site. The foundation of Stone Ashe lies in the belief that great wine is not defined by geography but by the harmony of land, climate, and meticulous care.

Nestled on steep slopes with rocky soil and an ideal growing climate, Stone Ashe Vineyard was established to prove that excellence knows no borders. Each vine on this remarkable property is tended with precision, channeling energy into producing fruit that yields wines of distinction. With the recent completion of the production facility, the vineyard proudly embraces its identity as a 100% estate-grown and estate-bottled winery—an achievement rarely seen on the East Coast.

Stone Ashe is more than a vineyard; it’s a place where tradition meets innovation. From the crisp notes of Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling to the complexity of Bordeaux blends, every vintage tells a story of dedication to the craft. And with a firm belief in vintage variation, no two years will ever taste the same—a testament to the unique qualities of each season and the land itself.

 “The name Stone Ashe is a reference to the Ashe soil series that we have here on site,” shares Heath Little, co-owner of the Vineyard. The soil, known for being rocky, deep, and well-drained, is perfectly suited for viticulture. The vineyard’s steep slopes and ridges, paired with an elevation of 2,300 feet, create an ideal microclimate for cultivating premium grapes.

“At one point, this was a wooded mountainside, after grading, road construction, and land rehabilitation, we’ve transformed it into a site we believe is very special and unique for grape growing.” The vineyard boasts a temperature range of 80–85°F during the day and 60–65°F at night, fostering balanced fruit with exceptional character.

Stone Ashe grows and produces seven varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. Everything is estate-grown and estate-bottled, ensuring meticulous control over the winemaking process. “Our goal is to move water away from the root zone as quickly as possible, so the vine puts all its energy into ripening fruit—not producing leaves.”

This dedication to quality extends to partnerships with local artisans. Visitors can enjoy wine pairings with treats from Marble & Steel Chocolatier, pimento cheese from Mother Noble in Brevard, and curated charcuterie boards.

The Little’s were drawn to Hendersonville for its unique terroir and vibrant community. “The reason we chose Hendersonville is twofold,” Heath notes. “We were looking for a site where we could make wines of character and needed a region with some rainfall—just like in France, Italy, and Germany. The steep slopes here perfectly align with our viticulture and winemaking objectives.”

Hendersonville’s charm extends beyond the vineyard. With seven other wineries within a 15-mile radius, it’s a haven for wine enthusiasts. The area’s historic architecture, thriving culinary scene, and pedestrian-friendly layout make it a standout destination for visitors seeking authenticity and local flavor.

Stone Ashe invites guests to embrace the nuances of winemaking in North Carolina, where “no two vintages are the same.” Visitors can explore the newly completed winery and tasting room, experiencing firsthand the fruits of a journey that began in 2016.

The team also encourages exploration of the broader Hendersonville AVA, fostering a deeper connection to the region’s winemaking community. “We would love for people to come back year after year to experience the vintage variation and everything this special area has to offer.”

For those looking to immerse themselves in the heart of Hendersonville, Stone Ashe offers more than just wine—it offers an experience rooted in the land and spirit of the community. “Hendersonville is a self-sufficient town with historical architecture, a thriving culinary scene, and a very localized community. When you visit, you’re supporting local businesses and families.”

Whether it’s savoring a glass of Riesling, marveling at the picturesque landscape, or enjoying a glass of wine, Stone Ashe promises an unforgettable journey.

“We really do think Hendersonville is a very special area for visitors. We would love to have you!”