Raylen is one of those wineries we go back to again and again. Our first trip to Raylen was pre-Covid and we sat inside due to the weather. We were on our way to somewhere else and stopped in to have lunch and taste the wine. We knew then it would be a winery we would visit many times. On our most recent visit, we enjoyed great people, goats, and The Gather and Graze Co. Raylen is convenient to I-40 off exit 174. You are welcomed to the property by a winding drive and 35,000 vines leading to the tasting room and spacious grounds. Even though you are close to a busy interstate, it doesn’t feel like that at all. Tastings are conducted daily by knowledgeable and friendly staff. Flights are grouped by red, white, sweet, extended, and reserve costing $8-$15. There is a tasting for every palate.
I enjoy their Pinot Grigio and stainless steel Chardonnay. Pours are generous and can be shared with another person. Charles enjoys their Merlot and Category 5. Sometimes hosts can try to rush you through a tasting, but not at Raylen. They take time to explain each wine to you and answer any questions.
On our latest visit, we enjoyed a wine pairing with various goat cheeses. It was an additional taste and well worth it. We were slow to purchase the goat cheese for sale and ended up empty-handed. The cheese went quick. Not only did they have goat cheese, but goats as well. It was fun to get up close and personal with Clarence and a yet-to-be-named baby goat.
It took us a while but we finally caught up with The Gather and Graze Co. Their charcuterie boards didn’t disappoint. We enjoy a board that said it feed 2-3 people, but it easily fed a few more. It was loaded with meats, cheese, jams, and fruit. I look forward to ordering again soon. It was easy to order online and our board was waiting on us. They did take some extras, but they went quickly. I highly suggest ordering in advance. Check them out on social media. Facebook The Gather and Graze Co. and on Twitter @thegatherandgrazeco
Dogs and picnics are welcomed. Please check their website for upcoming musical events and changing Covid requirements.
https://raylenvineyards.com
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