Euda Wine is the great mystery of this list. There’s almost no online footprint—no flashy website, no SEO-optimized hype—and that’s exactly why it’s here. It’s a reminder that some of the best stories have yet to be written. They have a great story, as they were devastated last year by Hurricane Helene, but are now back and operating with some of the most traditional wines we’ve tasted in years.

Founded by husband-and-wife duo Michael and Abby, Euda Wine is the realization of a long-held dream. Michael, a winemaker with over a decade of experience, had always envisioned crafting his own wines, while Abby, though not a winemaker herself, shares his passion for the business and the adventure of building something together. In 2022, they took the leap—moving from Washington, D.C., to North Carolina to start Euda Wine.

As it turns out, you can teach an Old Fort new tricks. In late January, one month after welcoming their first child, winemaker Michael McGeary and his wife, Abi McGeary, opened the tasting room at Euda Wine, the small McDowell County town’s first winery.

Meet the dynamic duo behind Old Fort's Euda Wine, where the husband and wife team Michael and Abi McGeary bring their unique backgrounds and passions to the forefront of winemaking.

Old Fort’s first winery is opening its doors this weekend and serving glasses of quality wine made from grapes grown here in the surrounding region.