So Saturday was the 10th anniversary for Rocky River Vineyards so we headed up there. They had several vendors, a DJ and live music. They also had special commemorative glasses and t-shirts. We brought one of the glasses home. We shared a bottle of the Peace and Quiet which is a Niagara with just a touch of Merlot. We had a good time there. As always met some really fun people.
We then headed to Old Homeplace Vineyard. We had the greatest time here. The owners, David and Jill Stone, were so super sweet! The farm has been in Jill's family since 1945. It used to be a tobacco farm and the winery has only been open for 7 months but do not let that lower your expectations! The wines are fantastic! David said he had always wanted to have a vineyard/winery so when the opportunity presented itself, he did it. They both still work full time jobs, but are hoping to make this their full time job later on. Dennis and I shared a bottle of their Riesling that just recently won double gold at the NC Fair. As you can see from the pictures below, I made a new friend and they have a beautiful view. The picture of Dennis ringing the bell says, Thank you for visiting Old Homeplace Vineyard. We wish you well. Show us your love by ringing the bell. So of course we did!
We stayed the night in Burlington, NC and went to a couple of other wineries on Sunday.
We started the day at SilkHope Winery. Oh my goodness! The lady that runs the tasting room was such a hoot! We didn't have a bottle or glass there, but we did bring home a bottle of their White Chambourchin American style (this was a first for us and boy did we like it! They have a French style as well that is also very good, we just preferred the American) and a bottle of the 2008 Chambourchin (so when people say a Chambourchin doesn't age well.... tell them you know someone who would argue that point). As we were leaving the owner, Wally. He's an older gentleman, was very nice to talk to for a little bit.
We left there, got some lunch and then headed to Zimmerman Vineyards. I didn't get the lady that did our tasting's name (hopefully Dennis did) , but I believe she is one of the owners. They had several nice wines but we simply can't afford to take them ALL home. The view was lovely and wines were very good. We each had a glass of the White Persephone. They have 4 dogs that all needed a little bit of loving. I only managed to get a picture of one of them though and that picture, makes me think of an episode of Mad About You where Murphy was on the table, so of course I had to take the picture.
#ncwine #ncwinemonth
I concur regarding the ladies at Old Rock Quarry Winery. Anyone in Spartanburg, Greenville, Laurens, Clinton, area this is an easy drive. The winery is open until 8pm Friday and Saturday. Please support this local winery, and tell the ladies that we sent you.
ReplyDeleteI had received an e-mail about the 10 year anniversary celebration at Rocky River Vineyards and thought this would be fun. many events happening as September is NC Wine Month. I have a picture of this "cuteness" young lady having a blast stomping grapes....I log into the blog and post with Jenni's pictures. Too darn cute not to share. I'm telling you guys, get out and visit locally, there is so much fun to be had.
What a gem we stumbled upon, namely Old Homeplace Vineyard. Situated along the shores of Lake Thom-A-Lex, with adirondack chairs scattered about. The tranquil setting of this vineyard just relieves any built up stress and leaves one totally relaxed. They are building a barn for hosting special events, Horses roam in the pasture next door, of course Jenni had to love on the horses.
Sunday we chose Silk Hope to visit first as they were only ones near Burlington that opened at 12 noon. So glad we made that decision, this winery was something unique. There is nothing fancy about Silk Hope Winery, just growing grapes and making good wine. the 2008 Chambourchin (American Style) was truely good. We tried a 2005, but it didn't seem up to par. LaLa who did our tasting is a true character. I mean that as the utmost compliment.
Finishing the weekend at Zimmerman Vineyards, a rustic old farmstead vineyards and winery. The outside sitting area is really nice, though it was a bit cool out Sunday evening.
We finished off another weekend escapade, why do these weekends seem to go by so fast.
Happy weekend wining!
Dennis