What is one of my favorite things about living in North Carolina, you may ask? Without skipping a beat, I will tell anyone who poses that question that it is the vast number of cultural and fun events that I have access to and can experience. I know that any weekend of the year there is something going on that I can check out.
During the summer, I love to take a trip for a day or weekend and explore the numerous vineyards that we have in the area. Even if you aren’t an avid wine lover, the vineyards themselves are located on some of the most beautiful scenery I’ve seen. Don’t believe me? Then check out a recent post from my friend, Regina Walter, who talks about the stunning Biltmore Estate.
This weekend, I’m excited to be attending Art on the Vine, Alamance County’s premier Art and Wine festival. The event is May 21st and 22nd at the Winery at Iron Gate in Mebane, N.C.
What I love most is the laid-back, relaxed feel of this particular event. Attendees can enjoy an award-winning glass of wine while listening to live music by four bands entertaining, with everything from alternative, folk, bluegrass, jazz, swing and beach music.
Iron Gate Winery offers a variety of wines to suit every taste. From the award-winning Flue Fire “sweet white” to a full selection of reds and whites and special selections. Every weekend in June offers a concert event featuring an array of musical performances. In addition to the many events hosted at the Winery, Iron Gate will ship wine directly to your home. Wine tastings and tours are also available at the Winery. For an event schedule or to purchase wine, check out their website: www.irongatevineyards.com.
For those who travel a little farther than myself, there are a great opportunities to check out the other local wineries. Iron Gate is just one of the vineyards on the Haw River Wine Trail. The trail is beside the beautiful and relaxing Haw River and consists of four vineyards and wineries, all just a short drive from the Triad and Triangle regions in North Carolina:
- GlenMarie Vineyards and Winery is located on the glens of Mebane-Graham Lake. This is a dog-friendly facility offering tastings and tours.
- Grove Winery & Vineyards is located in Gibsonville, where all grapes are hand harvested on the 44-acre farm. Listen to some tunes at the Grove Wine & Song Outdoor Concert Series this summer at the new stage overlooking Lake Cabernet. Go to www.grovewinery.com for the full events calendar.
- Wrap up your taste and tour of the Haw River Trail at Benjamin Vineyards & Winery in Graham. Join them every Saturday, May 7 through August 27 for ‘Saturdays in Saxapahaw,’ where you can shop at the Farmer’s Market while enjoying a glass of wine and listening to music at River Mill Village. Or, why not experience the Haw River first hand at one of the ‘Paddle’ events hosted throughout the year? These events include a canoe or kayak on the Haw River, followed by a meal and of course, wine!
I hope you will plan to visit and enjoy the arts, music and wine of Alamance County. But before I close, it’s time for me to ask you a question…which vineyard is your favorite vineyard to visit in the Carolinas?
By Tony Jarrett
