Frank and his wife Lita bought the land that is now Overmountain Vineyards in 1990. The family began planting Cabernet Sauvignon in 2000 and, over the next four years, added four additional varieties. In 2007, Frank enrolled in the Viticulture & Enology program at Surry Community College and studied for two years, including time working under Lee Griffin of Rockhouse Vineyards—one of the North Carolina wine industry’s early trailblazers.
Sofia Lilly is a second-generation farmer and winemaker who grew up on the farm and in the vineyards. She has been involved in the winemaking and vineyard work since the very first vintage. Sofia graduated from Western Carolina University with degrees in Biology and English, returned home to the family business, and remains deeply involved in day-to-day operations. She is also a Certified Sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers and spends her free time advocating for agriculture and farmers.
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Our Winemaking
At Overmountain, winemaking starts in the vineyard. We focus on estate-grown vinifera and an Old World sensibility—crafting French-style wines that reflect the Foothills and the season. From canopy work to harvest decisions to cellar aging, our process is hands-on and intentional, guided by the Lilly family team.
Meet the Team
From the tasting room to behind the camera, our team helps bring the Overmountain experience to life.
Our tasting room staff are ready to welcome you to the vineyard, share the wines, and help you enjoy the Tryon Foothills. They love meeting guests from all over and educating visitors on Overmountain wines and the region.
Rick is an Upstate South Carolina native based in Greenville. A Wofford College graduate, he works full-time in Human Resources and pursues filmmaking and photography in his spare time—alongside a growing curiosity for winemaking. Rick was part of the Overmountain family as a guest long before bringing his camera along, and the vineyard continues to inspire his creative journey.