Darlington School: Private Boarding School in Georgia Darlington Connects: Joyce (Riddle) Neely ('62T)
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Darlington Connects: Joyce (Riddle) Neely (’62T)

Becca Wood | January 22, 2021 | 519 views

We're excited to connect with small businesses owned by members of the Darlington Community through our Darlington Connects series. Today we’re thrilled to highlight small business owner Joyce (Riddle) Neely ('62T) and her business RayLen Vineyards.

A dedicated graduate of Thornwood School, the all-girls' school that merged with Darlington in 1973, Joyce (Riddle) Neely ('62T) has been a loyal member of our school community for many years. She has served as a member of the Darlington Board of Trustees, she is a Life Trustee, and she was recognized as the 2005 Dartington Distinguished Alumna.

These days, Joyce and her husband, Joe, own RayLen Vineyards in Mocksville, N.C. The winery, nestled in the Yadkin Valley, is less than 20 miles from downtown Winston-Salem. The Neely family started RayLen winery in 1999 and they crafted the name after their daughters, Rachel and Helen. RayLen offers a variety of products, including award-winning red, white, sparkling and port-style dessert wines. Joyce shared that her preferred wine of their current collection is the Reserve Petit Verdot. 

“Interacting with the customers when they visit is my favorite part,” said Joyce. She especially enjoys her conversations with their patrons.

RayLen is open seven days a week for wine tastings. They also have a calendar of events that are open to the public. Their products can be purchased on their website, and they offer shipping throughout the United States and abroad. Joyce shared that they have shipped orders as far as Japan and China. From a spontaneous weekend adventure to a celebratory event, RayLen is sure to leave a lasting impression.

To learn more about RayLen Vineyards, order their products, or plan a visit, check out their website or find them on Facebook and on Instagram @raylenvineyardsnc.

If you own a small business or restaurant owner and would like to be included in a spotlight and website, please email connect@darlingtonschool.org with your business information.