Beer & Wine Guide 2016

2016

LOCAL

BEER AND WINE GUIDE — Featuring —

Local Breweries and Wineries, Top Drink Picks, Recipes and Much More!

High Country Beer Fest RETURNS FOR ITS 9TH YEAR

Beer is an enjoyable beverage, but there's something special about the precise science High Country experts use in creating the perfect craft brews.

The 9th annual High Country Beer Fest is returning to the High Country Fairgrounds in Boone from 3 to 7 p.m. August 27.

Festival organizer and associate professor of chemistry at Appalachian State University Brett Taubman teaches fermentation sciences and makes it a priority to bring his knowledge to the event.

“Our goal is to try and make it as educational as possible,” said Taubman.

“Several of us organizing the festival work at the university. Rather than making this a massive beer festival where you just go from one long line to another, we keep it on the smaller side so people can mingle and talk with brewers, and also learn from seminars.”

High Country Beer Fest is a celebration of craft beer from around the region and the world. Sample a wide variety of beer, eat craft food, hear live music and attend educational seminars covering topics of beer tasting, brewing and food pairing.

Tastings from up to 50 unique breweries, many of which are difficult to find anywhere else, are the main feature of the event. Current breweries include Appalachian Mountain Brewery, Boonshine, Catawba Brewing Company and Lost Province.

To go along with the brews, the festival includes four hours of live music and food from local vendors, as well as educational opportunities. The seminar tent, featuring beer pairings and discussions, is a chance for the High Country to learn more about the science behind beer and which food pairings are the most enjoyable.

“You've got an opportunity to sample our great craft beers in the region and around the country, and eat local food and listen to local bands. There is no better place to be in August than in the High Country,” said Taubman.

In his ninth year, Taubman said the festival has had an interesting evolution, starting inside at the Broyhill Inn and Conference Center, and winding up outside on the High Country Fairgrounds.

“After the second year, we've sold out every year since then,” said Taubman. "We've expanded in food and music offerings since moving off campus, and it's become neater and cleaner. It's grown into one of the premier High Country events.”

High Country Beer fest is a nonprofit fundraiser event, who's primary beneficiary is Appalachian State University's fermentation sciences program. The festival also supports other local nonprofits including High Country Local First, High Country Mommies, Blue Ridge Conservancy-Middle Fork Greenway Association, The Mountain Alliance and Ivory Tower Inc. “We bring in over $50,000 each year that we're happily able to donate to the university, local charities and the NC Brewers Guild,” said Taubman.

RESPONSIBLE DRINKING While it's not uncommon to consume substantial amounts of beer at a beer festival, it's still important to make it home safely, and there are plenty of ways to make that happen.

Mountain Alliance and River and Earth Adventures will provide a bus service from Raley lot on the Appalachian State campus to and from the event. Buses will run from 2 to 9 p.m. and only stop at those two locations.

Bill's Garage will tow your vehicle and up to four passengers within the Boone city limits for free until 9 p.m. Tipsy Taxi has vehicles available to provide free rides anywhere in Boone until 9 p.m.

TICKET INFORMATION The festival has sold out in years past, so it's wise to purchase a ticket as soon as possible. General admission tickets are $40, VIP tickets are $80 and designated driver tickets are $10. A VIP pass includes a T-shirt, free food and an additional hour of tasting before the entire crowd enters.

The High Country Fairgrounds is located at 748 Roby Green Road. For more information on tickets, the festival and participation and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.hcbeerfest.com.

2 BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016

th

#makingbooneshine Tasting Room (next door inside Basil’s Restaurant) 246 Wilson Drive • Boone, NC 28607 828-386-4066 • booneshine.beer

BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016 3

UPCOMING EVENTS July 31 Aug. 3 Aug. 5

Whip Daddy's

Beer Tasting

Mutual Distributing 12-5pm

with Great Lakes Brewing 4-6pm Benchmark Provisions

A Special Evening with The Harris Brothers 5-8pm

Aug. 22-26

Featuring music by Hilltop Riot Lost Province

Aug. 9

Matt Bizzell

Music in the Vineyard 1-4pm Grandfather Vineyard

Duclaw 5-7pm

Aug. 27

Mims Distributing

Sept. 21

Aug. 28

Don Vallarta

Sept. 23-24

Aug. 30 Aug. 31

Sept. 3

with American Premium Beverage 4-6pm Benchmark Provisions

Aug. 13

Yoga in the Vineyard

Aug. 13 & 14

Chubby's Sizzlin' Sausage Food Truck 1-4pm

10:30-11:45am Linville Falls Winery

Grandfather Vineyard

Aug. 14 Aug. 16 Aug. 17 Aug. 20

with Bell's Brewery 4-6pm Benchmark Provisions

with Triennes 12-5pm Peabody's

Music in the Vineyard 1-4pm Grandfather Vineyard

Harpoon Brewing 5-7pm Peabody's

Sept. 4 Sept. 6 Sept. 7 Sept. 10 Sept. 11 Sept. 13

Sept. 24

with Southern Tier Brewing 4-6pm Benchmark Provisions

The Corklickers

Music in the Vineyard 1-4pm Grandfather Vineyard

Chubby's Sizzlin' Sausage Food Truck 1-4pm Dane Page

Music in the Vineyard 1-4pm Grandfather Vineyard

Sam Adams 5-7pm Peabody's

NC Wine Month

Jones Von Drehl 12-5pm Peabody's

The King Bees

Sept. 25 Oct. 1 Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 11

Oct. 12 Oct. 15

Appalachian Mountain Brewery

Redleg Husky

Great Lakes Brewing 5-7pm Beer Tasting

with Bell's Brewery 4-6pm Benchmark Provisions

Edward Main

Music in the Vineyard 1-4pm Grandfather Vineyard

Don Vallarta

Music in the Vineyard 1-4pm Grandfather Vineyard

Elliot Smith

Music in the Vineyard 1-4pm Grandfather Vineyard

Klee & Mike

Music in the Vineyard 1-4pm Grandfather Vineyard

Don Vallarta

Music in the Vineyard 1-4pm Grandfather Vineyard

Get Lost for a Cause

Fundraising and Awareness for Oasis Lost Province

Beer Tasting

with Foothills Brewing 4-6pm Benchmark Provisions

Chubby's Sizzlin' Sausage Food Truck 1-4pm The Johnson Brothers

Music in the Vineyard 1-4pm Grandfather Vineyard

Oct. 29-30

Peabody's

Sept. 14

Carolina in the Fall Music and Food Festival (Wilkesboro, NC)

Grandfather Vineyard

Get Lost for a Cause

Mountain Ninja Warrior

Beer Tasting

with DuClaw Brewing 4-6pm Benchmark Provisions

with Phillip 12-5pm Peabody's

Music in the Vineyard 1-4pm Grandfather Vineyard

Fundraising and Awareness for Hospitality House Lost Province

Peabody's

Fall Wines

Beer Tasting

with Birdsong Brewing Co. 4-6pm Benchmark Provisions

Music in the Vineyard 1-4pm Grandfather Vineyard

Booneshine

Beer Tasting

Grandfather Vineyard

Beer Tasting

Music in the Vineyard 1-4pm Grandfather Vineyard

4 BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016

Sept. 3 & 4

Sierra Nevada 5-7pm Peabody's

Beer Tasting

Peabody's

Klee & Mike

Music in the Vineyard 1-4pm Grandfather Vineyard

Peabody's

Advintage Wines 12-5pm

5-7pm Peabody's

Wine Tasting

Peabody's

Sept. 20

Nantahala Brewing Aug. 10

Country Vintner 12-5pm

with Nantahala Brewing Co. 4-6pm Benchmark Provisions

Aug. 24

Get Lost for a Cause

Fundraising and Awareness for Western Youth Network Lost Province

Live music from Typical Mountain Boys 2-5pm Linville Falls Winery

Tom Pillion

Fine Wine Trading Co.

with Belasco Wines 12-5pm Peabody's

Beer Week

3rd Annual Grape Stomp Festival

Sept. 18

Yoga in the Vineyard

10:30-11:45am Linville Falls Winery

Sept. 17

Peabody's

2nd Anniversary Party

Aug. 7

Yoga in the Vineyard

10:30-11:45am Linville Falls Winery

Community pot-luck style dinner Linville Falls Winery

Aug. 6

Aug. 20

Music in the Vineyard 1-4pm Grandfather Vineyard

Nov. 8

Final Weekend with Live Music on the patio from 2-5pm Linville Falls Winery

Get Lost for a Cause

Fundraising and Awareness for Women's Fund of the Blue Ridge Lost Province

WEEKLY EVENTS Every Day

Thursdays

$7 Booneshine Brewing Beer Flights

Appalachian Mountain Brewery

(4 beers/5oz. Pours) at Basil's Pasta Booneshine

Tuesdays Live Trivia

Appalachian Mountain Brewery $1 off 32oz. and $2 off 64oz.

Booneshine Brewing Growler Special at Basil's Pasta Booneshine

2nd Tuesdays Get Lost for a Cause Local Non-Profit Night Lost Province

Wednesdays Open Mic

All Beers $3

$3 Booneshine pints at Basil's Pasta Booneshine

College Night

Live Music from student groups, $3 pints, $10 pizza and pint special Lost Province

Sundays Open Jam Session

All Beers $3 Appalachian Mountain Brewery

Live Music 7pm

Lost Province Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays

7:30pm

with Ian Hunt Appalachian Mountain Brewery

Appalachian Mountain Brewery Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays

Trivia at 7pm

2:00-5:00pm on the patio

Lost Province

Linville Falls Winery Every Saturday & Sunday through the last weekend in October

BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016 5

Microbreweries in the High Country area: Appalachian Mountain Brewery 163 Boone Creek Drive, Boone (828) 263-1111 www.appalachianmountainbrewery.com Beech Mountain Brewing Co. 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway, Beech Mountain (828) 387-2011 www.beechmountainresort.com/ mountain/brewery Blind Squirrel Brewery 4716 S. U.S. Hwy. 19, Plumtree (828) 765-2739 www.blindsquirrelbrewery.com Blowing Rock Brewing 152 Sunset Drive, Blowing Rock (828) 414-9600 www.blowingrockbrewing.com Boondocks Brewing Tap Room & Restaurant 108 S. Jefferson Ave., West Jefferson (336) 246-5222 www.boondocksbeer.com Booneshine Brewing Company 246 Wilson Drive, Boone (at Basil's Deli) (828) 386-4066 www.booneshine.beer Flat Top Brewing Company 567 Main St. E., Banner Elk (828) 898-8677 www.facebook.com/flattopbrewing Lost Province Brewing Co. 130 N. Depot St., Boone (828) 265-3506 www.lostprovince.com 6 BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016

Tap into the mountains WNC is a hub for full-bodied craft ales With a variety of microbreweries to satisfy any craft beer lover's palette, the High Country beer scene is hoppin'.

Since 2010, the number of craft breweries in North Carolina has more than tripled from 45 to 170 plus, according to the North Carolina Craft Brewers Guild.

The annual economic impact of breweries in the state is $1.2 billion annually, bringing in visitors from all over the country to taste the state's many microbrews.

Microbrewing in the High Country saw a revival when Appalachian Mountain Brewery officially opened in 2013, making it the first brewery of its kind to open up in the area for about a decade. Since then, at least seven microbreweries have opened up in Boone and the surrounding areas, and the growth doesn't seem to be stopping there.

Asheville has the most breweries of any area, boasting 20 breweries, but the Boone area is quickly catching up. Justin Curtis, brewer for Banner Elk's Flat Top Brewing Company, said that the western part of the state is at the core of North Carolina's craft brewing industry.

“I think North Carolina, itself, is a craft brewing hub, and that seems to be centered in Western North Carolina,” Curtis said. “So, it's only natural for us to be a part of that movement and growth.”

The Blue Ridge Mountains aren't just a scenic place to enjoy a great craft beer in your rocking chair.

With the adventurous atmosphere that allows for hiking, kayaking, rock climbing and more, there are plenty of reasons to tap into local breweries after a

long summer day spent outside.

“The area itself is very unique,” Curtis said. “We are both rooted in history and excited by exploring new arts and dining experiences. That all plays into the uniqueness of brewing in the High Country.”

The High Country provides more than deeprooted history — its deep-rooted plants are just as important to making the local craft brewing industry unique.

“Almost everything that already grows up here can be used in some form of beer,” Curtis said. “As far as traditional beer ingredients, though, there are already local farmers experimenting with growing hops. I think that will only grow as the craft beer industry grows.”

A few possibilities of ingredients that grow in the High Country that can be used in local craft beer are berries, mints, carrots, honey, sweet potatoes, beets and corn, Curtis said.

Innovation is at the center of craft brewing. As new breweries constantly open up, existing breweries must work hard to provide customers with an unmatched brewery experience, whether that is drawn from the beer itself or from other unique amenities.

“Our motto for our beers is ‘authentic and innovative beers done right’ and we work very hard to live up to that saying,” said Andy Mason, co-owner and director of brewing operations at Lost Province.

Brewing Co., which is located in the heart of downtown Boone.

For more information, visit www.ncbeer.org.

- Erika Giovanetti

We carry all of the Locally produced Beers & Wines Specialty Beers - Visit our “BEER CAVE”

11-Year Anniversary!

Call for reservations & details!

Featuring a wide array of NC Beers New lunch menu!

Wines from the affordable to the rare & collectable Unique cheese from around the world Incredible chocolates Expanded selection of gourmet specialty foods, condiments & oils Extensive giftware selection including liquor wear

Wine Pairing

Gift baskets & party trays, wine & dining accessories

JUST SAY CHEESE The High Country’s largest selection of foreign and domestic cheeses, hand cut to

Saturday Wine Tastings 1:00 - 5:00 pm

6 Course Meal 6 Wines Throughout the Year...

Check fabioandkids.com for dates and times

$

28.99

Breakfast & Lunch 8am to 2pm • Closed Tuesdays Downtown Newland • 828-733-1314 • www.fabioandkids.com

Grandfather Center NC 105 & NC 184, next to the ABC store Banner Elk, NC / 828.898.9424 erickscheeseandwine.com

BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016 7

What are you waiting for?

Get in here!

DIAMONDS...

Only few things more Precious

BRAND J

E

W

E

L

R

Y

WILKESBORO

Elevate Your Taste in Wine Live Music Every Saturday and Sunday

Serving lunch & dinner Reservations Strongly Recommended

Open 7 days a week • 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Call for winter hours

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

9557 Linville Falls Highway • (828) 765-1400

www.linvillefallswinery.com

Restaurant and Wine Bar Visit our new patio!

831 West King Street | 828.263.9176 | www.vidaliaofboonenc.com

8 BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016

Fine wine straight from the vine High Country climate allows for unique, drier local wines North Carolina is steadily becoming a winery hub in the Southeast.

The High Country region of the state is able to add its own flavor to the state's wine industry by providing a cooler atmosphere, beautiful scenery and even different varieties of grapes, because the climate allows vineyards to grow unique grapes not found throughout other parts of North Carolina.

David Craig, vintner at Banner Elk Winery, was happy to give some history of the North Carolina wine industry.

In 2003, there were 14 wineries in the state, and now there are more than 150. Banner Elk Winery is the oldest in the High Country and was established in 2005. At the time it was bought, Banner Elk Winery was a blueberry farm, and they still use these plants to make a locally popular blueberry wine.

According to Craig, the area's harsh winters, cool summers and just enough rain allow the region to grow special kinds of grapes known as French-American hybrids, which were developed at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y. Banner Elk Winery grows three different types of grapes at its farm: Seyval Blanc, makes a dry citrusy white wine with green apple undertones; Marechal Foch, which makes a medium bodied red wine with soft tannins and mild oak finish; and Steuben, which makes a semidry rose wine with cranberry, strawberry and white peach flavors, according to Craig.

The climate in our region of the Blue Ridge Mountains is ideal for growing for these kinds of grapes, while the warmer eastern half of the state is better for sweet grapes. In fact, North Carolina's muscadine grapes are renowned in the wine industry for their unique, sweet Southern flavor. The Scuppernong muscadine

grape is even the official state fruit of North Carolina.

The grapes that grow better in the High Country are typically of a more dry variety, Craig said, making the wine of our mountain's stand out from the rest of the state's sweeter varieties.

“It's unique that we have the types of grapes that make dry wines, and people really seem to enjoy it,” Craig said.

While many of the grapes at Banner Elk Winery are sourced right from the farm, they also source grapes from local and regional vineyards in West Virginia and Tennessee, as well as gathering grapes from California.

Banner Elk Winery isn't the only local winery that sources grapes right from its own farm.

Dylan Tatum, winemaker and winery manager at Grandfather Vineyard and Winery, said that their Grandfather Blend is made 100 percent from Watauga County grown grapes, many grown on-site.

“It’s going to be a different experience than any other region on the East Coast,” Tatum said. “It’s hard to find the hillside vineyards anywhere outside of Europe, and we have mountainside vineyards.”

Area wineries are known not only for the unique taste of their wines, but also for the mountainous beauty that creates the perfect atmosphere to sit and enjoy your favorite summertime wine.

- Erika Giovanetti

Taste for yourself: Banner Elk Winery & Villa 60 Deer Run Banner Elk, NC (828) 898-9090 www.bannerelkwinery.com Grandfather Vineyard & Winery 225 Vineyard Lane Banner Elk, NC (828) 963-2400 www.grandfathervineyard.com Linville Falls Winery 9557 Linville Falls Highway Newland, NC (828) 765-1400 www.linvillefallswinery.com Thistle Meadow Winery 102 Thistle Meadow Laurel Springs, NC (800) 233-1505 www.thistlemeadowwinery.com Watauga Lake Winery 6952 Big Dry Run Road Butler, TN (423) 768-0345 www.wataugalakewinery.com

BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016 9

Breweries and Wineries in Ashe, Avery and Watauga

BEECH MOUNTAIN BREWING CO.

ASHE

WATAUGA

AVERY

WINERIES Banner Elk Winery & Villa 60 Deer Run Banner Elk, NC (828) 898-9090 www.bannerelkwinery.com

BREWERIES

Boondocks Brewing Tap Room & Restaurant 108 S. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson, NC (336) 246-5222 www.boondocksbeer.com

Grandfather Vineyard & Winery 225 Vineyard Lane Banner Elk, NC (828) 963-2400 www.grandfathervineyard.com

Booneshine Brewing Company 246 Wilson Drive (at Basil's Deli) Boone, NC (828) 386-4066 www.booneshine.beer

Linville Falls Winery 9557 Linville Falls Highway Newland, NC (828) 765-1400 www.linvillefallswinery.com

Appalachian Mountain Brewery 163 Boone Creek Drive Boone, NC (828) 263-1111 www.appalachianmountainbrewery.com

Blind Squirrel Brewery 4716 S. U.S. Hwy. 19 Plumtree, NC (828) 765-2739 www.blindsquirrelbrewery.com

Flat Top Brewing Company 567 Main St. E. Banner Elk, NC (828) 898-8677 www.facebook.com/flattopbrewing

Thistle Meadow Winery 102 Thistle Meadow Laurel Springs, NC (800) 233-1505 www.thistlemeadowwinery.com

Beech Mountain Brewing Co. 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway Beech Mountain, NC (828) 387-2011 www.beechmountainresort.com/mountain/brewery

Blowing Rock Brewing 152 Sunset Drive Blowing Rock, NC (828) 414-9600 www.blowingrockbrewing.com

Lost Province Brewing Co. 130 N. Depot St. Boone, NC (828) 265-3506 www.lostprovince.com

Watauga Lake Winery 6952 Big Dry Run Road Butler, TN (423) 768-0345 www.wataugalakewinery.com

10 BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016

Always Something New at the

Diamonds Estate & New Jewelry

40 TO 70% SAVINGS Fine Jewelry Colored Stones Watches • Pearls Karat Gold Sterling Silver

Diamonds Loose • Mounted Pendants Earrings Bracelets

Local Beers and Wines NC Cans Check Our Music Schedule on Facebook

One of a Kind Treasures

WE BUY DAILY Buy • Sell • Consign • Layaways Available

UPTOWN WEST JEFFERSON

336 - 846 - 2274 11am-11pm Mon. thru Sat. • 12pm-11pm Sun. (828) 733-5213 • 77 Ruffin Street • Linville, NC 28646

Spring Water Makes Better Beer

Honest Deals • Beautiful Jewelry www.perrysgoldmine.com

Visit the Premier Tasting Rooms

NOW SERVING LUNCH Wednesday-Friday 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

in the

High Country Boone • West Jefferson • Rustic in Blowing Rock

FREE olive oil, balsamic vinegar and gourmet food tastings in a rustic setting of furniture, gifts and accessories by over 30 Local and Regional Artists.

Brewery Tasting Room Open Daily 2-Til 567 E. Main Street • Banner Elk 828.898.8677 • www.FlatTopBrewing.com

Open Year Round!

Located in Boone at 819 West King St, next to Vidalia.

Come early and enjoy free tastings before your meal at Vidalia.

TheArtOfOil.com • RusticNC.com

Tues. - Thurs.

Hours:

5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Fri. - Sat. 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sunday

Brunch: 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Dinner: 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

115 NewMarket Centre Boone, NC • 828.265.0500 • www.joybistroboone.com

BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016 11

STACK IT UP!

WE , ASKED YOU .

VOTED

Here are the Top Craft Brews, Red Wines and White Wines in Ashe, Avery and Watauga Counties. Drink up!

BREWS

RED WINE

WHITE WINE

1

HOP HIKER

1

1

CHARDONNAY

2

LONG LEAF

2

PINOT GRIS

3

BANNER ELK WHITE

3

Blowing Rock Brewing Co.

Grandfather Mountain Vineyard

Appalachian Mountain Brewery

BOONE CREEK BLONDE

2

Appalachian Mountain Brewery

4

BELGIAN TRIPEL

5

TROPICPALE ALE

Blind Squirrel Brewery

Booneshine Brewing Co.

LEGACY WINEMAKER’S BLEND

LEGACY CABERNET SAUVIGNON Grandfather Mountain Vineyard

3

MARECHAL FOCH

4

BLUEBERRY

Banner Elk Winery

Linville Falls Winery

Grandfather Mountain Vineyard

Grandfather Mountain Vineyard

Banner Elk Winery

4

RIESLING Linville Falls Winery

Visit

Watauga Lake Winery

A beautiful 30 min. drive from Boone, NC !

Join us in or tasting room for a touch of history in our historic and haunted winery Open: Mon., Thurs., Fri., & Sat. 11am - 6pm Sun. 1pm - 5pm www.wataugalakewinery.com

Visit us today:

Boone Paint & Interiors 1852 Hwy 105, Suite 1 | Boone, NC | 828.264.9220 3587 Tynecastle Hwy | Banner Elk, NC | 828.898.2022 www.BoonePaint.com

2015 "Best of Tennessee" Award Winning Winery 423-768-0345 6952 Big Dry Run Road, Butler, TN 37640

THE BEST OF THE HIGH COUNTRY & THE REST OF THE WORLD! Local Brands

WINE & BEER

BLOWING ROCK BREWING

CHEESES

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN BREWERY

CIGARS CHOCOLATES

GRANDFATHER VINEYARD

GOURMET FOODS

LINVILLE FALLS WINERY

GIFT BASKETS

BLIND SQUIRREL BREWING

GLASSWARE

BOONESHINE BREWING OFFERING LOCAL BEER IN KEGS, TOO!

FOR OVER 38 YEARS 828.264.9476 • 1104 HWY 105, Boone • www.PeabodysWineandBeer.com

BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016 13

Beer Mac & Cheese

TRY SOME OF OUR

FAVORITE RECIPES

1 package (16 ounces) elbow pasta 1/4 cup butter 2 garlic cloves, minced 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1 tbsp ground mustard 1 tsp salt 1 tsp pepper 2-1/2 cups 2% milk 3/4 cup amber beer 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided 2 cups shredded fontina cheese

Prepare macaroni al dente.

Meanwhile, in a large pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic; cook and stir for 1 minute. Stir in the flour, mustard, salt and pepper until smooth; gradually whisk in the milk, cream and beer. Bring to a boil; stir until thickened or 2 minutes.

Reduce heat. Stir in fontina cheese, 2 cups cheddar cheese and 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese until melted. Add chives.

Drain macaroni; stir into sauce. Transfer to a greased 3-qt. baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining cheeses.

Bake, uncovered, at 400° for 14-21 minutes, until golden brown and heated through. Top with crumbled bacon. Let cool for 4 minutes before serving. Makes 12 servings.

Enjoy!

2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, divided 2 tbsp minced chives 5 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled

Beer Braised Pork Tenderloin 1 pork loin roast, 4-6 lbs 3 cups diced onion 4-6 carrots, pared and chopped 12 oz. dark beer 2 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper 1 bay leaf 4 whole cloves

Sear pork loin roast in hot oil in a large roasting pan. Drain all but 3 Tbs. of fat from the pan.

Saute carrots and onions until softened; stir in beer, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and whole cloves.

Return pork to pan and cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake at 350 degrees for 2 hours, or until pork is tender. Place pork loin on a serving platter and keep warm.

Pour drippings from pan into a large bowl; skim off fat and toss out the bay leaf. Place drippings with vegetables into a blender; cover and process at low speed until smooth. Pour processed beer sauce to a saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring often. Spoon sauce over sliced pork to serve. Enjoy!

Coco Stout S'more Brownies 1 cup unsalted butter 10 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped 3/4 cup chocolate stout beer 1 cup granulated sugar 2 tsp pure vanilla extract 1/3 cup natural cocoa powder not just for drinking

3/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar 4 large eggs 1 tsp kosher salt 1 1/3 cups cake flour 6 large graham crackers 12 jumbo marshmallows

14 BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish (you can also line it with a large piece of parchment to make it easier to lift the brownies out).

In a saucepan, melt the butter and bittersweet chocolate over low heat, stirring often, about 4 minutes. Remove from the heat and whisk in the stout and sugars. Whisk in eggs 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Whisk in the vanilla and salt.

Sift the cocoa and flour over the chocolate mixture then stir in until just blended. Roughly crush the graham crackers and add them to the batter.

Pour into the greased baking dish and spread evenly. Top evenly with the marshmallows.

Bake 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out almost completely clean. Let cool in the dish, then cut into big squares. Enjoy!

Banner Elk Winery In a quaint picturesque setting in the beautiful mountain town of Banner Elk, North Carolina, exists one of the best kept secrets of the High Country. The Banner Elk Winery and Villa is located on a historic blueberry farm, where they still allow the public to come and pick their own blueberries by the gallon. During picking season you may find Mr. Bianco, the father of the owner, posted under a large shaded umbrella by the blueberry fields, ready to guide pickers to the best spots to find the juiciest and ripest of the fruit. They also use these mature blueberry bushes to produce a variety of highquality blueberry wines that are renowned both locally and beyond.

The Banner Elk Winery was founded in 2005 by Dr. Richard Wolfe, who envisioned a mountain winery that utilized hybridized grape varietals for French-style winemaking. His goal was to break the stereotype that North Carolina wine was low-quality, sweet, and made with primarily scuppernong grape varietals. It was the first winery that opened in the mountain region of North Carolina, and since then several more have popped up. This has helped the High Country become Wine Country. Eleven years later, the winery has become a hallmark for the small resort town of Banner Elk, attracting folks from all over year-round.

Of course, like with all Cinderella stories, there were many obstacles to overcome. The primary issue being the unpredictable weather in the mountains of North Carolina. The area is known for its cool summers, especially cold winters, and heavy precipitation. Typically, these characteristics are not associated with ability to farm grapes for winemaking purposes. However, with extensive research, Dr. Wolfe was able to determine three specific hybridized grape varietals that could flourish in these conditions. The Seyval Blanc, Steuben and Marechal Foch varietals were planted in 2001 on the winery property as well as in various locations across the High Country. Since then, they have been used heavily in winemaking at not only the Banner Elk Winery, but also the other wineries in the local area.The Banner Elk Winery has experimented with other grape types, and continues to attempt to expand their own grapegrowing possibilities, now with seven varietals on property.

With a constantly changing wine list, the Banner Elk Winery has

been able to appeal to a wide variety of wine enthusiasts. Offering an array of white, red, rose, and dessert wines at varying times of the year, guests ranging from newbies to sommeliers can find something to appreciate and enjoy. Their award winning wine selection has brought attention to the Banner Elk Winery from both near and far.

Also located on the property is the Villa at the Banner Elk Winery. The seven bedroom house is available as a rental for events such as wedding parties, corporate retreats, even family reunions.

The winery and villa are set on an old blueberry farm, with views of the blueberry fields and grape vines from the inn as well as the tasting room. There is also a small pond located by the tasting room, where you may see the occasional flock of ducks, muskrats, or other wildlife enjoying the same scenery. The property is very much idealistic for weddings, big or small, of the local or destination varieties. With several potential ceremony sites and reception areas, the property is very customizable for your’s or your loved one’s dream wedding!

Live music every weekend, sangria made fresh by the staff, the Banner Elk Winery is open every day throughout the year, 12-6pm (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas). Check out their Facebook page or website for music lineup, promotions, new wine features, and special events. Dog friendly, guests often enjoy sitting outside and playing cornhole, or challenging each other to games on the bocce court while enjoying a glass of wine. Dr. Wolfe is known to swing by and grab guests to treat them for a sneak peek at the inside operations, and taste directly out of the casks. Now offering Flat Top Brewery on tap, The Banner Elk Winery has something for everyone, and strives to create an environment that is family friendly with exceptional customer service. Stop by anytime, ya’ll!

The Banner Elk Winery 135 Deer Run Lane Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-9090 info@bannerelkwinery.com bannerelkwinery.com BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016 15

Appalachian Mountain Brewery

Benchmark & Provisions

Blowing Rock Brewing

Appalachian Mountain Brewery was the first brewery to set up shop in Boone, North Carolina.

The company's goal has always been to use beer as a tool to bring the community together and promote positive change. During three years of growth the core pillars of AMB, Community, Sustainability and Philanthropy, have remained at the forefront of the business and are a part of everything the organization does.

AMB beers have been recognized in several regional and national beer competitions. The Boone Creek Blonde received a gold medal two years in a row at the US Beer Open. In its first year as a company, AMB received national recognition by being named the number one startup brewery in the country.

The brewery is also known for its locally sourced Farm to Flame food truck. The food truck provides a bevy of locally sourced menu items that are cooked on a wood fire oven inside the truck.

The food truck was built as a restaurant for AMB and just like the brewery, gives a portion of all proceeds to the local farming community.

As AMB continues to grow, the brewery is always adding new products and undertaking new ventures. Last year, AMB released their first cider and built a major production facility to produce the cider. AMB also created its own nonprofit foundation entitled the We Can So You Can foundation. In just three years the foundation has donated around $70,000 to the Boone community. AMB believes the foundation will bring even more purpose to the company's focus of Community, Sustainability and Philanthropy.

Appalachian Mountain Brewery is located at 163 Boone Creek Drive, and just behind Wendy's on Hwy 321 in Boone. The brewery and the food truck are open for business every day of the week.

Benchmark Provisions, a unique market store that sells beer, wine and other items, is located in downtown Boone at 122 South Depot St. Named for the United States Geological Survey Benchmark posted on the side of the building, Benchmark prides itself on being a store that has the best selection of craft beers, both local and domestic.

“You can go to the gas station if you like corporate beer, but you won't get that selection anywhere except Benchmark and Peabody’s,” Benchmark purchaser Daniel Fields said. “You’d have to go to West Jefferson and, even then, I guarantee I’ve got a better beer selection.”

While serving up a wide range of craft beers, along with affordable and high-end wines, gourmet snacks and more, one of Benchmark’s greatest goals is to provide exceptional customer service.

“We’re eager to put in the store whatever you think you need or whatever downtown needs that’s not there already,” Fields said. “Customer satisfaction has got to be the No. 1 priority. We want to make people happy. We want to have what you need and what you want.”

Local businesses have priority at Benchmark.

The business aims to offer craft beers that can’t be found in other stores, especially brews from North Carolina. Three cooler doors are dedicated to different state-brewed beers.

The store was created after some sensed a need to have a one-stop shop for the downtown Boone community. Fields said that, not only does the store have alcoholic beverages, but it also has convenient household items that aren’t easily found in the downtown area.

“We try to be a little bit of everything to everybody,” Fields said. “If you want to see it in downtown, and we don’t have it, tell us. We’ll get it.”

For more information on Benchmark Provisions, call (828) 386-1329 or visit benchmarkprovisions.com.

Blowing Rock Brewing began with a single idea—to create a beer that captured the finest qualities of the High Country. In 2007, we set out to make this idea a reality. We believed in the clean mountain water, unique ingredients, and local community of our home. We spent nearly five years dedicating ourselves to research, assembling an award-winning team and perfecting signature recipes.

In 2013, we opened our first brewery in downtown Blowing Rock. Within the same year that we opened the Blowing Rock Ale House & Inn. Immediate support from the local community followed by demand for Blowing Rock brews statewide showed us the power of the craft beer culture and the passion of the people it encompasses. In 2014, we opened a state-of-the-art production brewery in Hickory, located within a historical renovated mill that also includes our American Honor Alehouse.

Our brews are distributed by Tryon Distributing (an independently owned NC company) to retailers and restaurants statewide in six-pack cans, kegs and growers. With all of our beers being brewed and canned in WNC for distribution, nearly 50 employees who live & spend here and being 100% High Country family owned-when you buy Blowing Rock you keep all your beer dollars in NC and fuel the local economy.

Since opening in 2007, our local commitment has enabled us to offer sponsorship to the following community partners: Habitat for Humanity, ASU Athletics, ASU Appalachian Studies, The Turchin Center, Kiwanis Club, Valle Crucis School, Valle Crucis Community Park, Blowing Rock Community Foundation, High Country & NC Association of Realtors, Blue Ridge Conservancy, Sponsorship of the High Country Beer Fest (for the last 9 years), Watauga Humane Society, Blowing Rock Music Festival, Western Youth Network, Blowing Rock Art Museum, Blowing Rock Horse Show, Toys for Tots, Girls on the Run, Rescue Me Foundation, Canned Aid Foundation and FARM Café.

It’s been our pleasure providing you with the finest craft beer paired with new and unique ways to experience it. We are grateful to all of you, from those purchasing six-packs at the grocery store, enjoying a pint at our restaurants, or just stopping by to see what’s happening in the brewery. And of course, thank you to all of you who voted for HOP HIKER in the Watauga Co Beer & Wine Poll making it the #1 Local Craft Beer in the High Country.

16 BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016

WE TASTE HUNDREDS OF BAD WINES SO YOU DON'T HAVE TO.

Local Brands BLOWING ROCK BREWING

WINE & BEER CHEESES

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN BREWERY GRANDFATHER VINEYARD

CIGARS CHOCOLATES GOURMET FOODS GIFT BASKETS GLASSWARE

LINVILLE FALLS WINERY BLIND SQUIRREL BREWING BOONESHINE BREWING OFFERING LOCAL BEER IN KEGS, TOO!

828.264.9476 • 1104 HWY 105, Boone www.PeabodysWineandBeer.com

Specializing in: • Dinner Parties • Weddings • Receptions • Corporate Events • Inflatable Fun • Small Intimate Gatherings • Table settings & Glassware

we bring the fun!

y rd•inar o a r t x E •• • • • ed r delive

events

B O O N E’S B E E R PIO N EE R

163 Boone Creek Dr 828.263.1111

1818 Hwy 105-421 Bypass Boone, NC 828.264.5002 www.partiestoo.com BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016 17

Booneshine Owned and operated by Carson Coatney and Tim Herdklotz, Booneshine Brewing is dedicated not only to beer, but to fostering a strong relationship with their community.

"We are passionate about brewing high quality beer and equally focused on connecting with people and tapping into what makes the community of Boone and the High Country shine," Herdklotz said.

While Booneshine is the newest brewery in the High Country, it has quickly established itself as a staple of the Boone beer scene, offering a great selection of high quality beers crafted onsite.

Booneshine takes its dedication to producing the perfect craft beer from the tap, all the way to the customer.

“We use local ingredients when feasible,” Herdklotz said. “For example, we use Watauga county sorghum molasses in our Molasses Porter, local honey in our High Country Honey Amber Ale and local blueberries in our Tart Blueberry Ale. On the other end of the process, a local farmer picks up our spent brewing grain to supplement his cattle feed.”

Collaboration and partnership are a staple Booneshine Brewing’s business model. The Brewery works closely with Ivory Tower Brewing, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the ASU Fermentation Sciences Department.

Each quarter, Booneshine and Ivory Tower brew a collaboration beer that sends its proceeds straight back to the Fermentation Sciences program. Through this program, Booneshine is able to provide hands on experience for students at ASU. Booneshine beer can be found in over 25 restaurants and bars all around the High Country, including in the tasting room inside Basil’s Pasta. Basil’s offers 32oz. and 64oz. growlers to go.

Weekly specials at Basil’s include $1 off 32oz. and $2 off 64oz. growlers every Tuesday, $3 pints every Thursday, and $7 beer flights every day.

Stop by Basil’s for a pint of Booneshine and choose from house made pasta, gourmet sandwiches, salads, flatbreads and more.

18 BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016

Grandfather Vineyard & Winery Grandfather Vineyard & Winery is a locally owned business that opened their doors in May of 2011. After already owning Tatum Galleries, a furniture and interior design shop, for 30 years this new venture started as somewhat of a hobby for owner Steve Tatum. He planted the vines in 2003 on about five acres of a 13 acre track of property that the Tatum’s own in Foscoe.

At the time, his son, Dylan Tatum was a beer and wine rep in the local Boone area. Not long after the vines were planted, Dylan moved to Mount Airy to study winemaking at Surry Community College, the only school in North Carolina that offers an Enology and Viticulture program (the study of wine). After he graduated, Dylan, and his parents Steve & Sally decided to turn their hobby into a full grown winery including a tasting room situated right along the Watauga River, with a spectacular view of Grandfather Mountain just beyond their terraced property.

Grandfather Vineyard currently produces 3,500 cases a year with wines ranging from dry whites, reds and roses to sweeter style wines as well. Since opening, they have continued to expand their wine selection to include more popular wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, but also wines that include grape varietals found only in this region. For example, their 2015 Terraced Gold is a product of two local grape varietals called Traminette & Vidal Blanc.

These are French American hybrid grapes that are unique to this area and really thrive in the Western North Carolina Mountains, but generally aren’t grown out west. In addition, their 2015 Watauga River White (sweeter wine) is made from locally grown Seyval Blanc, another grape varietal privy to this area.

The grape growers in the High Country area have a very special climate to grow their grapes.

So special, in fact, that the Federal Government (the Tax and Trade Bureau) are about to recognize a 2,600 square mile area in Northwestern NC, Eastern TN and Southwest VA , which includes Grandfather Vineyard & Winery. It’ll be classified as a nationally recognized grape growing area called “The Appalachian High Country American Viticulture Area”. This will be a tremendous boost for tourism in the High Country.

“One major difference between the wine industry and the beer industry is that in the winery, we have one harvest a year where we have to make all the wine that we will have for the entire year.

We have about a three-month period when we are crushing, pressing, and fermenting all the wines.

White wine varieties tend to come in earlier and are ready to drink in the spring of the following year, while reds will be pressed, aged in barrels, bottled and ready to drink about two years following harvest. It’s long hours during these fall months, but it only comes once a year,” Dylan Tatum, winemaker.

During the summer months their tasting room is open 7 days a week Monday- Saturday from 126pm and Sundays from 1-5pm (closed on Tuesdays during winter). Every Sunday from May through October they feature live music from 1-4pm from local artists. Oftentimes, Sundays bring the biggest crowd, patrons bring a picnic, buy some wine and mingle with the owner Steve and his lovable lab Zoebelle. Their philosophy is to treat everyone like family, to make customers feel welcomed and they will keep coming back.

“We really like the feeling of a family owned winery,” says Mr. Tatum, “When we succeed everyone succeeds. That is especially true in winemaking as the fruits of our accomplishments show in every glass of wine for our patrons and all of our employees to see.”

For more information about Grandfather Vineyard- please visit their website at www.grandfathervineyard.com

Linville Falls Winery Linville Falls Winery began with a dream by owner and operator Jack Wiseman.

His vision came to fruition when he opened his state of the art tasting room in October 2012. He began this life long dream by planting a variety of grapes on his 40 acre farm nestled in the Linville Falls community. To date, he grows and produces award-winning wines like Riesling, Rose' and Cabernet. Fresh homegrown blueberries make up his best of category dessert wine from the North Carolina State Fair and Martha Washington's inspired Cherry Bounce is always a favorite. The tasting room is open daily from 12 PM - 6 PM, offering a flight of 10 wines. Linville Falls Winery is located on Highway 221 north of the Blue Ridge Parkway, milepost 316. We welcome families, pets and packed lunches.

Best Fine Dining on Beech Mountain Intimate Rustic Atmosphere Four Course Meal Includes Wine or Cocktails Friday & Saturday Evenings from 6-8pm

By Reservation Only

"Offering a wide selection of fine local beer and wine from Plumtree to Banner Elk, Boone and Linville Falls"

also visit

Famous Fast Eddie’s BBQ AND GRILL 1005 Beech Mountain Parkway Beech Mountain, NC FamousFastEddies.com

Come visit us at

828-387-3647

Eastern America’s Highest Town

IT’S THE

Where to go, what to do

Bella’s Italian Restaurant

Lunch & Dinner Catering Take Out All ABC Permits

NEWSPAPER

LIVE MUSIC

Lunch Specials $ 99

FREE EVENTS

11-3pm

6

KIDS' ACTIVITIES OUTDOOR EXCURSIONS ARTS & CULTURE AND MORE!

Available everywhere!

12 Taps Local & Regional Brews 40 Bottles of Wine Italian Selections Reasonably Priced All ABC Permits Beer & Wine Specials on Tuesdays & Thursdays 828.386.6101

Boone Heights Shopping Center BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016 19

Your Hometown Jeweler for Over 30 Years

White Wine Strawberry Lemonade Sangria

Tues-Fri 9-5; Sat 9-3; Sun and Mon closed

Newland, NC (828)733-0186 Like us on

Peach RosĂŠ Sangria

20 BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016

Berry Iced Tea Red Sangria

It's

Berry Iced Tea Red Sangria 3 (18.5 ounce) bottles sweet tea (about 7 cups), chilled 1 bottle sweet red wine, chilled 2 cups berry juice, chilled 2 lbs. strawberries (hulled and sliced), blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries

Peach Rosé Sangria 1 bottle Rosé wine, chilled ½ cup peach liqueur 1 cup peach juice ½ cup simple syrup 3 sliced peaches 1 cup sliced strawberries

White Wine Strawberry Lemonade Sangria 2 lemons, thinly sliced 1 apple, cored and sliced pa

rd

1 cup strawberries, sliced lengthwise ga n

Sh

ep

1 bottle white wine, chilled by oto s Ph

3 cups lemon-lime soda

Me

½ cup light rum

BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016 21

Lost Province Peabody's Wine & Brewing Company Beer Merchants Opened in August 2014, Lost Province Brewing Co. is a destination microbrewery and gastrobpub located in historic downtown Boone, NC, behind Mast General Store. Lost Province Brewing Co serves authentic and innovative craft beer brewed on site and savory wood fired fare using local and regionally sourced ingredients wherever possible. Lost Province is a family owned and operated business that is committed to their community, environment and employees and above all to providing an experience of gracious hospitality to their guests. Make Lost Province your destination to meet up with family or friends to have a beer or to enjoy one of their savory wood fired pizzas.

Open daily, Lost Province serves lunch and dinner.

They feature trivia every Wednesday at 7pm and live music Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings starting at 7:30pm. During the late part of the 19th century and early part of the 20th century, the three counties in the northwestern corner of North Carolina – Ashe, Allegheny, and Watauga Counties – were known as the Lost Province due to their geographic and economic isolation from the remainder of the state. A major geographic barrier, “The Blue Ridge” acted as a hindrance to the development of transportation infrastructure, limited contact with outside areas, and slowed economic development in the region following The Civil War. To them, the term “Lost Province” signifies a place that remains somewhat difficult to get to, perhaps hard-to-find, but is a place to be sought, and a place where you will find food and drink for your body and soul, relaxation, fellowship and peace. They hope you will enjoy your time in “The Lost Province.”

130 N. Depot Street Boone, North Carolina 28607 Hours: Monday 11:30am-10pm Tuesday 11:30am-10pm Wednesday 11:30am-10pm Thursday 11:30am-11pm Friday 11:30am-11pm Saturday 11am-11pm Sunday Noon-9pm Closing hours may vary based on business Contact Information: (828) 265-3506 f: /lostprovincebrewingco www.LostProvince.com 22 BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016

Peabody's was born in Blowing Rock in 1978 when beer and wine were adopted in that respective municipality. It became one of the go-tos for alcohol on through the 80s for local folks and particularly ASU students braving the former two lane road between Boone and Blowing Rock.

The store moved and lived on in Banner Elk until making its present home in Boone. Peabody's has faithfully maintained the best beer and wine selection in the High Country and rivals any other in the state. Our staff is passionate about the processes, know how and every story that goes into every bottle so that they can better communicate with and elevate each customer's experience with that special bottle of wine or the best new thing in beer. This passion coupled with proper Southern customer service is why Peabody's surpasses any other retail wine and beer shop any where.

We stand alone as the Best of the Best Wine Shops year after year while also maintaining a standing with our community as a sponsor of multiple events and charities ranging from the arts, land conservancy, parks and recreation, and education.

1104 Highway 105 8282649476 peabodyswineandbeer.com Jeff Collins 8282642648 Kevin Burnette 8287736628

Watauga Lake Winery Owners, Wayne and Linda Gay, "retired" to Johnson County, TN, in 2002 after spending 22 years in the Italian import business. During this time, Linda and Wayne, grew to love the mountains and vineyard covered slopes of Italy. When they discovered East Tennessee, they immediately felt as if they had been transported to the Italian Alps. They purchased 35 acres and as Wayne likes to tell it, they decided to plant a few grapevines on the property as landscaping and it simply got out of hand!! The result is "Villa Nove Vineyards" which consists of over 4000 wine grape vines.

Wayne and Linda purchased the historic Johnson County Big Dry Run Schoolhouse and transformation into the Watauga Lake Winery began in 2010 and opened to the public in 2012. Little did they know they would be met by the "ghosts of school year's past". The wall of remembrance will take you back in time and has a very special story to tell.

From a dry Seyval and Chancellor wine to a sweet dessert wine. Watauga Lake Winery wines have been recognized in competitions at the Asheville Food and Wine Festival in 2015, winning the double gold and the gold. Six medals were also awarded at the Mid-Atlantic Southeastern Wine Competition in 2015. Awards at the "Wines of the South Competition" have included two Concordance Gold Medals and in 2015 the coveted "William O. Beach Award" the BEST of TENNESSEE wine made entirely with fruit grown at their vineyard.

6952 Big Dry Run Rd. Butler, TN 37640 (423) 768-0345 Hours: Monday,Thursday - Saturday 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Sunday - 1:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.

Closed Tuesday and Wednesday

170+ 100

BREWERIES & WINERIES IN

120

NC

45 2010 2012 2014 2016 More than 30 new breweries are planning to open in North Carolina in 2016 and beyond.

North Carolina has more breweries than any other state in the South.

The number of craft breweries in North Carolina has more than tripled since 2010.

10,000 JOBS

2nd

annual economic impact of

largest increase in

$

1.2

BILLION

$

300 Million

BARRELS PRODUCED

675,469 BARRELS produced by craft breweries in 2015

in annual wages

186 WINERIES

in the U.S. in 2015

1,711,000 TOURISTS

$

1.71

BILLION economic impact

7,709 FULL-TIME JOBS

525 grape growers

$

257

MILLION in Tourism Expenditures in 2013

Sources: NC Craft Brewers Guild, NC Wine and Grape Council

BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016 23

WINNERS CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2015 NORTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR Raleigh, NC • Gold Medal

TOURS

May - October $12/person 2:30 & 4:30 p.m.

Saturday's -Sunday's By appointment only.

Please schedule at least one week in advance by email info@bannerelkwinery.com

TASTINGS YEAR ROUND $10/person 12:00-6:00 p.m.

Every Day

Life is an adventure. Why not make it the perfect adventure?

Escape to Banner Elk North Carolina, where you will discover The Villa at Banner Elk Winery. Nestled amongst the rolling hills, vineyards and a blueberry orchard is Banner Elk Winery’s luxury private villa.

The Tuscan inspired Villa features seven luxuriously appointed suites, two with fireplaces. Each suite features a king or queen sized bed adorned in luxurious linens and abundant pillows, private jacuzzi tubs and breathtaking mountain views from every window.

Awaken to the soothing songs of nature as you enjoy a cup of coffee on the scenic veranda. Stroll through the blueberry orchard and gardens or journey up the mountain to the upper vineyard for an awe inspiring view of the expansive Blue Ridge Mountains. Unwind by the pond to enjoy a glass of wine to admire the magnificent sunset. Whatever your indulgence, you can unwind in your very own private vineyard setting.

Banner Elk Winery & Villa offers the ultimate wine country experience: views, location, setting and privacy. Enjoy the serene pleasures of tranquility and beauty, while still being minutes away from downtown Banner Elk.

VILLA • WINERY • WEDDINGS • EVENTS Open Daily 12-6pm • 60 Deer Run Lane • Banner Elk, NC 28604 (828) 898-9090 • www.BannerElkWinery.com

24 BEER & WINE GUIDE 2016

MARECHAL FOCH (ESTATE) 2015 NORTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR Raleigh, NC • Bronze Medal 2013 INTERNATIONAL EASTERN WINE COMPETITION, Sonoma County, CA Gold Medal

BANNER ELK WHITE 2015 NORTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR Raleigh, NC • Bronze Medal 2013 NEXGEN WINE COMPETITION, Sonoma County, CA • Gold Medal

SEYVAL BLANC 2015 NORTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR RALEIGH, NC • Silver Medal 2012 NORTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR RALEIGH, NC • Gold Medal

BANNER ELK RED 2015 NORTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR Raleigh, NC • Silver Medal 2013 NORTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR Raleigh, NC • Gold Medal 2013 INTERNATIONAL EASTERN WINE COMPETITION Sonoma County, CA • Gold Medal

BANNER ELK BLUEBERRY WINE (ESTATE) 2015 NORTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR Raleigh, NC • Silver Medal

BANNER ELK BLUEBERRY "ICE" (ESTATE) 2015 NORTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR Raleigh, NC • Silver Medal

HIGH COUNTRY ROSÉ 2015 NORTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR Raleigh, NC • Silver Medal 2013 NORTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR Raleigh, NC • Gold Medal