The Haw River Valley appellation, located along the banks of the Haw River between Greensborough and Raleigh, is one of four AVAs in North Carolina. The total area covers over a half million acres, but only 60 acres are planted. Much of this can be explained by the fact that this is tobacco country, so some vines were ripped out in favor of tobacco (and other crops). There are only two wineries here, working with a multitude of red varieties, ranging from Cabernet Franc and Syrah to Nebbiolo and Tempranillo, while whites include Chardonnay and Viognier. Hybrids such as Traminette and Niagara are also planted, and there is some fruit wine produced as well. (Wine/Appellations)