No reason to
about
High Country Wines or a bottle. Guests can pair that with live music on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. This winery grows several types of grapes for its wine, such as Riesing, Seyval Blanc, Noiret, Marquette, Petit Verdot, and Foch; so there’s something for everything. The farm also grows blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, heirloom apples, pumpkins and Christmas trees. For more information on Linville Falls Winery, visit www.linvillefallswinery.com.
BY IAN TAYLOR
W
hile winter is beloved for the beautiful snowy landscapes and cold weather that encourages fashionable jackets, the season is also perfect for sitting at home by the fire with some light music on and a glass of wine in your hand. The big decision is what wine will be in that glass. The High Country features numerous local wineries that can find the perfect drink for those relaxing nights.
THISTLE MEADOW WINERY
BANNER ELK WINERY AND VILLA
Banner Elk Winery and Villa was the first winery in Avery County after opening in 2005, and since then has made its mark as one of the premiere wineries in the High Country. It’s won awards, including a gold, silver and two bronze medals for its products at the 2016 North Carolina State Fair. Aside from the wine, Banner Elk Winery and Villa features numerous suites for guests to stay in, and is a destination wedding location.
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PHOTO COURTESY GRANDFATHER VINEYARDS A glass of wine can pair well with food and the weather.
For more information on Banner Elk Winery and Villa, visit www. bannerelkwinery.com.
GRANDFATHER VINEYARD AND WINERY Starting as a hobbysized vineyard, Grandfather Vineyard and Winery in Banner Elk grew into a business and opened its doors in 2011. Talk about a scenic view: the Watauga River flows
right down the middle of the property. Grandfather Vineyard and Winery offers shipping of its products to approximately 34 states. Products range from $9.95 for the 22-ounce hard cider to the $26.95 bottles of Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon. The winery’s tasting room allows guests to choose from four tasting experiences: eight dry
wines for $10, four dry reds for $6, four dry whites for $6 or four sweet wines for $6. Reservations are not needed for the tasting room, and the area is pet friendly. For a group of eight or more visitors, it’s requested to call 48 hours in advance. For more information on Grandfather Vineyard and Winery, visit www. grandfathervineyard.com.
LINVILLE FALLS WINERY
Located at an elevation of 3,200 feet, Linville Falls Winery offers a space for weddings, private events, classes and reservations. Guests can get a tasting experience that is both child- and pet- friendly. For those of age, chosen wines can be tasted in one-ounce pours with requests taken for a glass
Thistle Meadow Winery is the choice winery of Alleghany County. Thistle Meadow offers 30- to 45- minute winery tours as well as wine tastings, with each guest able to taste up to five wines. There is a variety of 60 different wines to choose from; selections can be found in dry red, dry white, blush/sweet and cooking wines. Wine examples include the Bourgeron, easy-drinking taste with fresh berry flavors, the Feather Bed White, which has hints SEE WINES ON PAGE 136
WINTER TIMES 2021
