History

Silver Creek is steeped in history and folklore.

NC's Gold Rush

Gold was discovered in North Carolina in 1799, the first recorded discovery in the United States.  By 1825, Rutherford and Burke Counties were leading the US in gold mining.  Mining towns and supporting industries were popping up left and right.  Several of the creeks in the area, including the two on the property (Silver Creek and White Fork Creek) were enlarged to accommodate the equipment, miners and laborers. 

After the rush, the area resumed its farming tradition for several generations. 

From Gold to Vines

In 1992, Larry Kehoe had a vision to grow European varietals in the mountains of Western NC. He planted his first 2 varietals; Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon on roughly 1 acre. Lo and behold - the vines and grapes flourished. He was among one of the first vinifera grape growers in North Carolina. From there, a budding vineyard grew to 3.5 acres and 7 varietals; Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot, Chambourcin, Tourega Nacional. 

From Vines to Wine

In 2010, we became apprentices of viticulture (grape growing) and enology (winemaking) under Larry's mentorship. We planted an additional 1.5 acres of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot and 2 new varietals; Malbec and Tempranillo.

In September, we finished construction of the Winery to welcome the first 2012 harvest. The property spans 32 total acres -  5 acres of grape vines, rolling hills, wooded trees and 2 winding creeks.   

Silver Creek and White Fork Creek intersect on the property and became the inspiration for our vineyards namesake.  We thought it was fate since our lives twisted, turned and intersected in a similar way.