NC Wine Guys: Recent Episodes

NC Wine Guys

All things NC wine, mead, cider and more!

This episode of Cork Talk takes listeners inside the NC Wine Competition with special guest Nicole Chesney, Executive Director of the North Carolina Wine & Grape Council. Nicole joins us to discuss the history and purpose of the competition, how wines are judged, and why the event plays such an important role in highlighting the quality and diversity of wines being produced across North Carolina.

The NC Wine Competition is more than a judging event. It serves as a showcase for the hard work, innovation, and dedication of North Carolina’s wine industry. During our conversation, Nicole shares insights into the judging process, the value of professional wine evaluation, and how winning wines, meads, and ciders help tell the story of North Carolina wine to a broader audience. Whether you’re a winery owner, wine enthusiast, or someone just beginning to explore local wines, this episode offers a fascinating look behind the scenes of one of the state’s premier wine events.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they talk about Viognier in their lesser known grape varietals segment! For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at https://soundcloud.com/joshtime.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

In this episode, we visit with Christian and Andrew owners of Christian Paul Vineyards in Elkin, NC! In this conversation, talk about their journey into the world of wine, what inspired them to plant a vineyard, and how they’re building an experience that’s both approachable and welcoming for guests of all backgrounds.

Christian Paul Vineyards carries forward a family legacy rooted in Italian winemaking traditions, but their focus today is firmly on creating something unique here in North Carolina. As we discuss in the episode, their approach blends Old World inspiration with a more modern, interactive tasting experience. From their diverse grape plantings to their “Around the World” tasting concept, Christian and Andrew are carving out their own space in the Yadkin Valley while keeping the experience fun and inviting for visitors.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they explore the details of the grape Albariño, a bright and refreshing white grape known for fresh acidity! For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at https://soundcloud.com/joshtime.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

Explore Christian Paul Vineyards in North Carolina’s Yadkin Valley and discover their unique, interactive approach to winemaking and tasting experiences.

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again food and wine pairing together might, when done right, be magical. That was certainly the case this past Saturday at Hinnant Family Vineyards in Pine Level, where we joined an intimate influencer dinner highlighting the food paired with muscadine wines. The goal of this dinner is show how muscadine wine deserves respect and attention. The dinner was organized by Ashley Nicholas, Hinnant’s tasting room manager.

A Legacy Rooted in Muscadines

Hinnant Family Vineyards isn’t just another stop on the NC wine trail. It’s a cornerstone. The Hinnant family began planting grapes in the early 1970s, building what would eventually become the largest muscadine vineyard in the United States, with more than 100 acres dedicated to our state’s native grape. Bob Hinnant took some to review that history with us as a we looked out on the sea of vines.

At a time when vinifera grapes tend to dominate the conversation, Hinnant continues to champion muscadines, not just as a tradition, but as a serious, versatile wine category. Saturday night was proof.

To learn more about Hinnant’s history, take a listen to our podcast, Cork Talk, and the episode featuring Ashley Nicholas of Hinnant Family Vineyards and Winery.

First Course: A Fresh Start

The evening opened with a Chicken Caesar Salad, paired with Moonlight Magnolia.

The salad was crisp, lightly dressed, and a great canvas for the wine. Moonlight Magnolia showed a mellow sweetness with peach and pear notes, softer in structure and easy-drinking. The pairing worked seamlessly. The wine didn’t overpower, but instead complemented the dish’s freshness and subtle richness.

Second Course: Classic Carolina Comfort

Next came a highlight of the evening: She Crab Soup which was made by Ashley’s mom, paired with Carlos.

This was a textbook pairing. The wine carried those classic Carlos grape aromas. It was fruity, slightly sweet, and expressive. While the soup leaned rich and comforting with a touch of sherry character and slight spice. Together, they hit that balance we’re always chasing. The wine’s fruit and sweetness meeting the soup’s richness, while the acidity kept everything from feeling heavy.

And yes, the soup itself deserved a moment. Absolutely delicious!

Third Course: A Surprising Turn

This savory course featured Chicken Gyoza from Origin Thai in Smithfield, paired with the Reserve Dry Noble.

Now this is where things got interesting.

The Dry Noble brought a more structured, drier profile, with notes that leaned tropical. Think pawpaw and even a hint of banana alongside subtle cherry. There was a nuttiness and depth here.

The pairing? It worked. The wine handled the savory, slightly rich elements of the gyoza with ease, showing that muscadine wines can go well beyond the expected flavor profiles.

Fourth Course: Bright, Playful, and Summer-Ready

Up next was a fun, vibrant pairing: Shrimp Pad Thai also from Origin Thai in Smithfield, alongside Southern Pink, a blush wine from Carlos and Noble.

This wine jumped right out of the glass with grapefruit and melon notes, carrying a mellow sweetness that didn’t overwhelm. The brightness played beautifully with the dish, cutting through the noodles and tying into the slightly sweet, slightly savory flavors of the Pad Thai.

This was one of those pairings that just made sense. It was approachable, flavorful, and perfect for a warm North Carolina evening.

Dessert: A Sweet Finish

Dessert brought us Salted Caramel Cheesecake, paired with Dangerous Waters, a fortified wine made from Carlos.

The wine showed a toasty edge with nice acidity and clean fruit, keeping the pairing from becoming too heavy. Notes of honey, caramel, and vanilla echoed the dessert, while the acidity helped reset the palate between bites.

A strong finish to a thoughtfully executed meal.

Final Thoughts

What stood out most from this dinner wasn’t just the quality of the wines, it was the range. From mellow and fruit-forward to structured and dry, Hinnant demonstrated that muscadine wines are anything but one-dimensional.

And that’s something we love to see.

Events like this continue to push the conversation forward, helping more folks understand that North Carolina wine, especially muscadine, has depth, flexibility, and a real sense of place.

If you haven’t been to Hinnant in a while, it’s time to change that. And if you’ve never explored muscadine beyond the basics, consider this your invitation!

This episode is another Best of Cork Talk episode featuring Grassy Creek Vineyard and Winery in State Road, NC! When we first sat down with Jim and Cynthia Douthit (episode: Growing for Future Generations), it was during the height of COVID and the conversation was recorded remotely. Even then, their dedication to farming, commitment to quality winemaking, and deep connection to the Yadkin Valley and North Carolina Wine community were clear as they shared the story of building Grassy Creek from the ground up.

In this updated episode, we reconnect to hear how much has changed over the past several years. Jim and Cynthia walk us through the evolution of the winery as they celebrate 20 years since opening their tasting room, including new leadership in winemaking, ongoing vineyard replanting efforts, and an expanded lineup of wines. We also explore how Grassy Creek continues to enhance the visitor experience with events, trails, and outdoor spaces that reflect its identity as a welcoming, family-friendly farm winery.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

Located in State Road near Elkin, Grassy Creek Vineyards is part of the Yadkin Valley AVA and offers visitors a chance to experience North Carolina Wine in a setting that’s both welcoming and distinctly local. Whether you’re planning a trip to the area or exploring more Yadkin Valley wineries, it’s worth adding to your list.

This episode is another Best of Cork Talkconversation featuring Haze Gray Vineyards in Dobson, NC! When we first sat down with Becky and Deane, it was during the height of COVID and just as their tasting room was opening. Even then, their passion for winemaking, dedication to veterans, and clear long-term vision stood out as they began building something truly meaningful in North Carolina wine country. The original episode kicked off Season 3 of Cork Talk with Haze Gray & Underway.

In this updated episode, we reconnect to hear how much has changed over the past six years. Becky and Deane walk us through the expansion of their vineyard and wine portfolio and their focus on estate-grown and single-varietal red wines with extended aging. We also dive into how their wine blends continue to honor military-inspired veterans with unique military themed names, with sales of each bottle giving back to veteran organizations.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

In this episode, we’re revisiting Raffaldini Vineyards in Ronda, NC! This year marks the 25th anniversary of Raffaldini’s founding. We sit down with Jay Raffaldini to reflect on how the winery has evolved from its earliest days and what lies ahead for the next quarter century. We first interviewed Jay back in season 1, and a lot of things have changed over time so listen in for details.

Raffaldini Vineyards has been known for its focus on Italian varietals and embracing Old World traditions. As Jay shares in our conversation, the story of Raffaldini is also rooted in perseverance, experimentation, and deep family connections. At its founding, the North Carolina Wine industry was just taking shape. Many practices, techniques, and vineyard practices for the North Carolina climate were being written in real time. Jay talks to us about those early challenges and what he’s learned over time to establish his house style and build on quality over time.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they talk about Tannat; a bold and structured grape that’s gaining in popularity here in North Carolina. For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at https://soundcloud.com/joshtime.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

North Carolina Wine has always been about place. At its core it tells stories of dreams that take root, grow deep, and evolve over time. At Grassy Creek Vineyard and Winery, you’ll find a story that embodies this theme. This year marks their 20th anniversary and one of the celebrations was a vertical tasting of five library vintages of their signature red wine, the Red Barn Blend.

We were honored to be able to join the tasting event on Saturday February 21st. What unfolded was an afternoon of history, hospitality, and a constant reminder that North Carolina Wine ages well.

Welcome to the Tasting!Wine Glasses Set up for EveryoneOur Place is SetAbout Grassy Creek VineyardGrassy Creek’s journey began in 2003 when Jim and Cynthia Douthit paired up with Derrill and Lori Rice to fulfill their dreams of starting a vineyard and winery that spoke to making the most of what the land can produce. Plantings begin soon after focusing on traditional European winemaking grapes which form the basis of their wines today.

Over time, the ownership team expanded when Steve and Peggi Clark joined, followed by Larry and Lynn Nycum not long after. Lynn quickly became interested in wine production and joined Jim in the winemaking process. One thing that remains constant is just how deeply personal the work has always been. Not only does the team have a direct hand in every step of the process, but they also bring in their friends and families to help along the way.

What is the Red Barn Blend?The Red Barn Blend has been part of the legacy at Grassy Creek Vineyard since 2004. The blend generally consists of Merlot, Syrah, and Sangiovese with percentages roughly lining up to be 60/30/10. That being said, the primary goal of this blend is to make a wine that captures the best of the vintage and not necessarily creating the same wine year after year.

It begins in the winery. After all the grapes are harvested the wines are made separately and aged in oak barrels. Throughout the aging process, they are tasted periodically to see how each is progressing. When it’s time to blend, the best barrels of Merlot, Syrah, and Sangiovese are set aside for the Red Barn Blend. From there, they start to play with the ratios of the three wines until a wine is made that captures the best of that year. For this reason, the exact percentages may change, but the core will remain Merlot, Syrah, and Sangiovese.

5 Library vintages of Red Barn BlendCynthia Opening BottlesThe Wines Are PouredWhat we TastedWe explored five library vintages; 2010, 2014, 2015, 2018, and 2021. Also on hand was a sample of the current 2023 vintage as well. Here are our impressions and notes on each wine:

2010 Red Barn Blend – Brick red with just a hint of age at the rim. Aromas of dried plum, leather, and subtle smoke. Earthy and savory on the palate with roasted red fruits and soft, integrated tannins. A mature wine that’s still drinking gracefully, although Jim mentioned you should enjoy now if you have it.
2014 Red Barn Blend – A brighter, lighter ruby red color in the glass. Dusty and earthy on the nose with a touch of vanilla. If you’ve ever wondered what red currant is like, this wine is a poster child of it with vibrant acidity, and juicy red fruits. As it sat in the glass, it developed deeper roasted flavors and a sweet‑toned vanilla note that rounded everything out while concentrating the flavors even more. This was the group’s favorite as no bottles remained after the tasting.
2015 Red Barn Blend – Lighter and slightly tawny. Aromas lean toward oak and toast rather than fruit. On the palate, it’s dry, oak‑forward, and spice‑tinged with a long, toasty finish. One of the more restrained vintages of the lineup.
2018 Red Barn Blend – Bright ruby and beautifully concentrated. Aromas of caramel, vanilla, and a whisper of sun‑dried tomato. Excellent balance: juicy fruit, smooth tannins, and a caramel‑vanilla mid‑palate leading to a lingering toffee finish. This was a stand out vintage with everything being in check.
2021 Red Barn Blend – Deepest color of the library wines showing a garnet‑purple core. Aromas of violets, plum, black cherry, and youthful freshness. The palate carries black tea‑like tannins, plum and black cherries with a smoky oak accent. Clean fade on the finish. This wine is still very young but will age nicely over time.
2023 Red Barn Blend (Current Vintage) – Dark, vibrant, and youthful. Plum, vanilla, and black cherry lead the nose and palate. Oak is more prominent here due to its youth, but after tasting earlier vintages, it’s easy to see this wine’s future potential.

Overall FavoritesWhen we started the event, the group was instructed that if they found something they liked they should jump up and grab a bottle of that vintage from the display table (only 10 bottles available per vintage). The clear winners at the end were the 2014 (first to run out), 2021 (another sell out), and 2018 (only 1 bottle remained). Our personal favorites aligned with the group with our preferences toward the 2021 and 2018 vintages.

Jim and Lynn talking to the groupCharcuterie from Side DoorA bottle of Klondike Farm waterFinal ThoughtsA vertical tasting is always special but this one had an extra special connection. Where we were seated in the Red Barn tasting room was actually the spot where it all began. The initial winery was located in that very spot which brought a sweet sense of nostalgia to those who have been around since the beginning.

Tasting through the wines, it was fun to connect these wines with others in the area and across the state from these same vintages. One thing is clear, that North Carolina Wine is centered around a sense of place and those who work hard to create a taste for everyone.

This episode is another Best of Cork Talk episode featuring Golden Road Vineyards in State Road, NC! When we first spoke with them, they walked us through their unexpected journey into wine, how they landed in North Carolina, and the vision behind what they were building. Their story kicked off Season 4, and even then it was clear they were on a path shaped by passion, persistence, and community.

In this updated episode, we check in with Chad and Crista to hear how things have evolved. They’ve expanded their wine and beverage offerings, strengthened their social media presence, and shared exciting hints about what’s ahead as they look toward 2026 and beyond. Golden Road continues to grow in inspiring ways and this episode shows just how far they’ve come and where they’re headed next.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

Welcome to our first episode of Season 8 of Cork Talk! This episode features Scott and Elizabeth Barone from Castello Barone Vineyards in Ronda, NC! Located in the heart of the Swan Creek AVA, Castello Barone Vineyards is a boutique vineyard and winery that is grounded in Old World wine traditions, service to others, and a deep respect for craftsmanship.

Their winemaking journey started as home brewers and home winemakers in Florida. Eventually the hobby became a passion and Scott and Elizabeth were looking for a way to make this into a larger project. They decided to settled in the Swan Creek AVA due to the higher concentration of vineyards in the area as well as on the traditional and homey feel that the region conveys. When you listen their story, you’ll find that the core beliefs of Faith, Family, and Service run throughout everything they do at Castello Barone.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! For Season 8, they are going back through the vineyard and finding more grape varietals for us to discuss, most of them will be lesser known grapes that you’ll find here in North Carolina. We begin our discussions with Petit Manseng. For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at https://soundcloud.com/joshtime.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

We recently gathered with some our fellow wine bloggers/writers/influences for an episode of Cork Talk. As part of that event, we included a vertical tasting of Sagrantino from Raffalidini Vineyards in Ronda, NC. We tasted the 2015, 2019, 2020, and 2022 vintages along with a recently released non-vintage Sagrantino blend called Il Falco.

About SagrantinoSagrantino is a vitis vinifera that originates from Umbria in Central Italy being primarily grown in the village of Montefalco. Its thick skins make it a good choice for North Carolina’s humidity. Sagrantino is also known as one of the most tannic grape varieties in the world.

Raffaldini was among the first vineyards in the United States to plant this variety. The initial planting of 8 acres was around 2011. The first bottling of Sagrantino as a standalone variety was from the 2015 harvest.

As with many of Raffaldini’s red wines, all of these Sagrantinos had at least some portion that went through the appassimento drying process prior to fermentation.

Tasting Notes2015 Sagrantino – As mentioned earlier, this was the first vintage. It’s also the only Sagrantino we tasted that was 100% that variety. There was some slight browning on the edges of this wine. The nose showed brambly notes with hints of black cherry. Concentrated raspberries and plums along with medium tannins produced a balanced palate. The finish was long. This wine is to be drunk now.

2019 Sagrantino – This wine was a blend of Sagrantino (78%), Petit Verdot (15%), Montepulciano (5%), and Tannat (3%) with some appassimento used. The color was dark ruby and the nose had notes of spiced cherry, currant, and coffee. The palate was rich and lush with black cherry and black tea notes. Tannins were pronounced. This wine is in its drinking prime but will likely continue to improve over the next 3-5 years.

2020 Sagrantino – This wine was a blend of Sagrantino (81%), Petit Verdot (13%), Montepulciano (3%), and Tannat (3%) with some appassimento used. We found the color to be medium ruby and the nose to be brambly black cherry. The nose was more pronounced than the 2019. A softer palate than the 2019, it still had big fruit notes and softer tannins. The wine was smooth and easy drinking with a bit more acid than the others. It would be a good food wine.

2022 Sagrantino – This wine was a blend of Sagrantino (79%), Petit Verdot (14%), Montepulciano (5%), and Tannat (1%) with 100% appassimento used. The color seemed to be darker than the 2020 vintage – a deep garnet. The pleasant nose gave dried black plums, some spice, and a hit of raisin. Big tannins and a lush palate with black cherry, black plum, and vanilla; this wine is young. If you have this one, hold it for another 3-5 years. While wonderful now, it will be fantastic down the road.

Il Falco NV – This wine is a current release (as of this writing) and is a blend of Sagrantino (50%), Petit Verdot (46%), and Montepulciano (4%) with 100% appassimento used for the Sagrantino and Petit Verdot. The color was dark and even. The nose was a bit muted with some brambly notes along with a bit of earthiness. A fruity palate and good tannins, this wine is nicely balanced. Jammy, dark, and tannic qualities are found in this wine. Enjoy now, or cellar for a few years for an even better wine.

Final NotesSagrantino shows promise a red varietal that is decently suited to the hot, humid climate of North Carolina. It produces age-worthy wines with pronounced fruits and tannins and would be a perfect pairing with for red meats or earthy umami rich vegetarian dishes.

Of the tasting line up, the 2015, 2019, and 2022 were the equal favorites of the group.

What are your thoughts on Sagrantino? Are you familiar with this variety? If not, seek it out! Cheers!

We’re closing out our 2025 season with a Year End Review! As part of this tradition, we’ve brought together other digital influencers in the North Carolina wine scene to reflect on the highlights of 2025. You’ll hear from Delayne and Charles from Winey Friends, Jesse and Jessica from The Wine Mouths, Natalie from Tarheel Taps and Corks, Nicole from the NC Wine and Grape Council, Dave from Vino-Sphere, and Arthur from Merlot2Muscadine.

In this episode we cover many topics ranging from the creation of the Tryon Foothills AVA to memorable events and new experiences. This episode is packed with insights and stories that celebrate the growth and resilience of our wine community.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

In this episode, we sit down with Neil Shore and his daughter Jennifer Hiatt from Sanders Ridge Vineyard & Winery in Boonville, NC! Neil and Jennifer share the story of transforming a 180-year old family farm into a modern vineyard and winery. Family and heritage are at the heart of everything they do at Sanders Ridge (the name itself comes from Neil’s great great grandfather).

While the vineyard is a relatively recent addition to the family farm, the legacy of working with the land has been a long standing tradition in the Big Woods. Throughout the conversation, you’ll hear stories spanning generations of the Shore family farming on the land and making connections throughout the community. We talk about their approach to creating wines that balance sophistication and fun and how they have created a welcoming space for making memorable experiences.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they talk about ebulliometers and their importance in the winemaking process! For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

We’re featuring another Best of Cork Talk episode, this time we’re revisiting our conversation with the team at Linville Falls Winery in Newland, NC! Back in 2021, we chatted with Linda, Jessica, and Lindsay during a snowy winter storm. In this special update, we catch up with Linda and Lindsay while Jessica is off welcoming a brand-new member to the family! We dive into how Linville Falls Winery continues to evolve, offering relaxing, personalized tasting experiences, and immersive vineyard tours, connecting guests to the land and the wines.

During our recap, we also explore their Choose and Cut Christmas Tree business called Red Barn Tree Farm. Each holiday season, families flock to Linville Falls Winery to pick out the perfect Christmas tree, sip on hot cocoa, and enjoy the festive charm of a vintage themed mountain Christmas. Also in the recap, you head Lindsay talk about the Foscoe Home Team, head to their website to find out more.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

In this episode of Cork Talk, we feature JW Ray, owner of JOLO Winery & Vineyards in Pilot Mountain, NC and Rayson Winery & Vineyards in Mocksville, NC! JW discusses his journey from being brought up in a hospitality family to becoming an entrepreneur and winemaker here in North Carolina.

We explore the philosophy behind the award winning wines at JOLO and Rayson and how JW is pushing to elevate the experience through exceptional hospitality. By setting the bar high for how guests are treated, JW shows that it’s the people that matter and that make a memorable moment.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they talk about how chromatography is used in the winemaking process! For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

It’s another Best of Cork Talk episode, this time we revisit our conversation with Amy Michael, the Entomological Programs Manager with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services. The Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) is spreading here in North Carolina and across the Southeast. Stick around for the end of the episode where Amy gives us a quick update about new tools, partnership, and approaches for how to deal with this invasive pest.

Throughout the episode, you’ll hear mention of specific sites and resources to visit. Here are a few recommendations to get you started on the right path:

NC Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services: SLF Resource Page
NC State Extension – Gardening NC: SLF Resource Page
NC Cooperative Extension: SLF Resource Page
Find your County Extension Office

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

This episode features Craig Little and Heath Little from Stone Ashe Vineyards in Hendersonville, NC! Stone Ashe is situated on a dramatic landscape of steep rolling hills with stunning views. As a small family-run vineyard and winery, they are able to concentrate on their deep commitment to viticulture and winemaking.

In this episode, we sat down with Heath and Craig in their brand-new winery production facility. The conversation proved to be enlightening and deeply meaningful. We learned about their passion for grape growing, wine making, and educating visitors about what it means to support local wine. Though Craig was facing health challenges that day, he lit up when we when we started to talk about his love for growing grapes and making wine. This episode captures one of his final opportunities to speak about the work he loved, and we’re honored to share it with you.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they talk about SO2 and how it’s used in the winemaking process! For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh. We also featured a Sparkling Rosé of Nobel from Erik Martella Wines, find out more here: https://erikmartellawines.com

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

We’re featuring another Best of Cork Talk episode, this time we look back at our conversation with Sofia Lily at Overmountain Vineyards in Tryon, NC! We catch up on how the tasting room has evolved over the past 5 years to enhance your experience when you visit. Wine quality continues to be a focus and Sofia talks to us about how they continue to push boundaries.

During our recap conversation, we also discussed the impact of Hurricane Helene to Western North Carolina and how Sofia and Overmountain Vineyards were involved in the recovery efforts. Sofia partnered with a nearby dairy, Big Bottom Milk Company to switch over to bottling fresh water for anyone who needed. Through their efforts they eventually turned into a support hub for the region.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

This episode features Ken Parker from Souther Williams Vineyard in Fletcher, NC! We recorded this episode sitting outside their open air tasting room on a perfect spring afternoon. Ken talked to us about what it’s like growing grapes on his family’s multi-generational farm and what the future of wine looks like in the Crest of the Blue Ridge AVA in Western North Carolina.

Nestled in Hoopers Creek Valley between Hendersonville, NC and Fletcher, NC, Souther Williams Vineyard is in a picturesque setting. The 85-acre farm is situated on a mix of rolling hillsides and fertile flat plains. When you visit, you’ll enjoy a laid-back mountain charm and a unique tasting experience.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they talk about Acidity in wine and how to measure it during the winemaking process. For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

We’re featuring another Best of Cork Talk episode, this time we revisit our conversation with Lance Hiatt and Tim Parks from Marked Tree Vineyard in Flat Rock, NC! We catch up about how things have changed over the past 5 years including a brand new production facility and other changes that help to elevate North Carolina Wine.

Marked Tree Vineyard is situated on the Eastern Continental Divide. Water on one side of the vineyard eventually runs into the Atlantic Ocean while on the other side it runs into the Gulf of Mexico. This unique location is an excellent site for growing grapes, producing wine, and simply relaxing and enjoying nature.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

In the Wine Light we celebrate North Carolina Wine Month! May has been celebrated as NC Wine Month since 2020. Previously September was NC Wine Month.

Head out and visit wineries, vineyards, meaderies, and cideries during the month of May and the rest of the year.

Share your fun on social media. Use the hashtags #NCWine and #NCWineMonth.

If you’re looking for ideas on how to celebrate North Carolina Wine Month, check back here for a listing of special events and promotions and other ways to celebrate all month long!

Here’s the list we have so far:

All month long! – The visit your local wineries, vineyards, meaderies, and cideries to purchase and enjoying locally grown and made NC Wine!
Friday, May 2nd – The North Carolina Winegrower’s Association hosts their food and wine pairing event, Taste of NC, on the deck of the USS North Carolina battleship in Wilmington. Last year’s event was a huge success with wonderful food, wine, and a picturesque setting.
Friday, May 2nd – Sunday, May 4th – Henderson County and Hendersonville celebrate their annual Cider, Wine, and Dine weekend. The event celebrates the new beginnings of spring following a challenging fall and winter due to the impacts of Hurricane Helene and includes special events at local wineries and vineyards. Also included is the opening of the new winery and event space at Marked Tree Vineyard in Flat Rock.
Saturday, May 3rd – As part of Cider, Wine, and Dine weekend, Henderson County welcomes its newest winery, Johnson’s Legacy Vineyard. Located just up the road from Henderson County’s first winery, Saint Paul Mountain Vineyard, Johnson’s Legacy began growing grapes in 2017.
Saturday, May 3rd – Downtown Mount Airy hosts the annual Budbreak Festival from 12pm – 5pm. Additional information can be found here.
Friday, May 9th – Fine Wines of NC hosts their annual awards gala at the Millennium Center in downtown Winston-Salem. Doors open at 6:45pm. Tickets can be purchased here. The night features local food and wine pairings and the announcement of winners of the Fine Wines of NC wine competition.
Saturday, May 10th – Haze Gray Vineyards in Dobson, celebrates NC Wine Month with a special dinner and wine pairing. To view the menu, go here. Tickets can be purchased by calling the tasting room (336-374-1072) or emailing co-owner, Becky Muhlenberg, at becky@hazegrayvineyards.com.
Friday, May 16th – Rayson Winery and Vineyards in Mocksville celebrates its first anniversary. To find out more and purchase tickets, go here.
Saturday, May 17th – The Yadkin Valley Wine Festival returns to Elkin. The festival features local wineries, food, and music.

In this episode of Cork Talk, we explore the impact of Hurricane Helene on North Carolina’s wine industry. Hear firsthand stories of resilience and recovery from local wineries and vineyards. Discover how the community has faced challenges and adapted in the aftermath of the storm. Join us for an inspiring look at the strength and determination of North Carolina’s wine industry.

For this discussion, we bring together six Western North Carolina wineries and vineyards. You’ll hear from Jeff Frisbee from Addison Farms Vineyard, Lance Hiatt and Tim Parks from Marked Tree Vineyard, Dave Coventry from Mountain Brook Vineyards, Cory Lillberg from Parker-Binns Vineyard, Alan Ward from Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, and Heath Little from Stone Ashe Vineyards.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they talk about Hydrometers! For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

We’re featuring another Best of Cork Talk episode, this time it’s our discussion with Elizabeth Anne Dover Bishop from The Farm at Dover Vineyards in Concord, NC! Our original interview was back in 2020 and was our first one that we did in a remote setup and we look back on this as one to remember.

We caught up with Elizabeth Anne during the 2025 North Carolina Winegrowers annual conference to see how things are going at the vineyard and farm. Our recap with Elizabeth Anne is at the end of the episode so be sure to listen!

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

Our first episode of our 7th season features Erik Martella from Erik Martella Wines! Erik has a formal education in chemistry and an extensive background in winemaking in California. When he moved to the Southeast, he became fascinated by the concept of creating uniquely American Fine Wine. This quest aims to break away from European grape standards and embrace native North American grape varieties.

Erik Martella is committed to exploring the Muscadine grape and pushing the boundaries of what Muscadine wine can be. He is elevating Muscadine wine by highlighting the unique qualities of the grape and focusing on small-batch production to emphasize innovation and change perspectives.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! In this season, Jesse and Jessica will discuss the science behind winemaking. Join us in this episode as we discuss wine refractometers! For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

In this episode, we gathered four special guests to help us have an engaging discussion as we remember 2024. You’ll hear from Dave Nirshi author of Vino-Sphere, Arthur Barham creator of Merlot2Muscadine, Natalie Hampton author of Tarheel Taps and Corks, and Hailey Klepcyk President of the North Carolina Winegrowers Association.

As we wrap up 2024, it’s time to reflect on a year that has been both challenging and inspiring for the North Carolina wine community. The devastating impact of Hurricane Helene on our beloved vineyards and the loss of cherished industry members have tested our resilience. Despite these hardships, the spirit and strength of our community have shone brightly, showcasing the unwavering dedication of those who make North Carolina wine so special.

In our latest podcast episode, “Looking Back at 2024,” we gather with friends to discuss these significant events and share some of our favorite moments from the year. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of how Hurricane Helene affected local wineries, stories of those we’ve lost, and the changes within our community. Our special guests will share their favorite things from this year, offering a heartwarming look at the resilience and unity that define our industry.

For more information about the events you heard about in this episode, please visit these links:

International Petit Verdot Day – January 25, 2025
NC Winegrowers Annual Conference – January 30 – February 1, 2025
Taste of NC – Several Dates in 2025
NCWine Digital Media Summit – March 23 & 24, 2025
International Wine Symposium – May 21-14, 2025

In Memoriam

Karen Parker-Binns: https://memorials.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com/karen-parker-binns/5416340/
Tom King: https://www.hudsonfuneralhome.com/obituaries/thomas-king
Dan Smith: https://www.richardbolesfuneralservice.com/obituary/DanielDan-SmithJr
Michael Zimmerman: https://www.salemfh.com/obituaries/Michael-David-Zimmerman?obId=33116829

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

This episode we go back to the beginning and revisit Jones von Drehle Vineyards in Thurmond, NC! Jones von Drehle was our first episode that we ever recorded. This time, we visited the vineyard when they had a special Sip and Savor wine and food event event to celebrate their own 10 year anniversary.

We talked with Chuck and Diana Jones about how things have changed over time and what’s coming up. Tanner Pardue joined us as well to talk about changes in the winery and how quality has continued to rise year after year. Finally, we wrap up with a conversation with chef Lil Lacassagne from Saint Jaques at the Burke Manor Inn who was the featured chef for the event.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they talk about Cider! For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

This month we have another Best of Cork Talk episode, featuring Michael Zimmerman of Junius Lindsay Vineyard in Welcome, NC! In this episode, we pay tribute to Michael who passed away on September 12, 2024. Over the years, we grew to appreciate our friendship with Michael as each visit brought something new. Junius Lindsay is still open and the staff are just as friendly as ever.

In this episode, you’ll learn about Michael’s passion for growing grapes, farming his family land, and how he became so interested in producing top quality wine. This episode was originally recorded for Season 2 of Cork Talk which aired in February of 2020.

Our friends and contributors Jesse and Jessica join us again. Not for a Wine Class this time, but to share their memories of Michael and of Junisus Lindsay Vineyard. For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

For anyone who is interested in sharing their memories of Michael, his family and friends would enjoy hearing from you. You can share a memory or a tribute here: Obituary Information for Michael David Zimmerman

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

This episode features Dylan and Nicole Tatum from Grandfather Vineyard & Winery in Banner Elk, NC! Dylan and Nicole tell us about how Grandfather Vineyard got started back in 2003. Over time, they found that hybrid grape varieties thrive in the cooler climate of the Appalachian High Country AVA, producing wines with high acidity and bold fruit flavors.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they talk about the winemaking style called Pét Nat! For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

This month it’s another Best of Cork Talk episode featuring Kim and Benny Myers from Laurel Gray Vineyards in Hamptonville, NC!

We interviewed Kim and Benny back in 2019 and featured the episode Dreams Don’t Work Unless You Do in July of that year. Fast forward 5 years and a lot has changed! There have been major additions to the tasting room with expanded seating under their veranda, updates in the winery with new equipment, and don’t forget about the wines! Over the years, producing quality wine has been a focus and it continues to improve year after year.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

P.S. If you saw an earlier episode pop up in your feed, this one corrected the audio issue from the previous episode!

We’re celebrating our 10th anniversary as the North Carolina Wine Guys with a special anniversary episode! This episode features a discussion with our friends Jessica Adams and Jesse Byrd, you may know them as the Wine Mouths! They’re also celebrating 10 years so we thought it would be great for us to reflect on our times together. (Pictures below show some highlights.)

This was a fun episode to record and the discussion was great! We talk about what the industry was like 10 years ago, how we each got started, and what we’re hoping for in the future. One of the major highlights that we discuss is the improvement in quality over time. A lot has changed in the last 10 years and we think the wines speak for themselves!

This was the very first time we met at Grove Vineyard! We had a quick blogger round up wine tour featuring the Van in Black as our transportation.A special wine tasting! We met up at Haze Gray Vineyards to record a few Wine Class segments. We met up for a picnic lunch at Daveste Vineyards to enjoy the nice weather. If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

This month it’s another Best of Cork Talk episode featuring Ben and Becky Starr from Starrlight Mead & Cider in Pittsboro, NC!

We interviewed Ben and Becky back in 2019 and featured the episode Mead Making Starrs in November of that year. Fast forward 5 years and a lot has changed! They have not only refined their mead making style, but have expanded into carbonated session meads and most recently cider. We dropped in to the tasting room back in May of 2024 and recorded this update. While we were there, we also tasted their new meads and ciders and it is definitely a must for our listeners!

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

We’re celebrating North Carolina Wine Month with an episode featuring Ashley Nicholas from Hinnant Family Vineyards in Pine Level, NC! Hinnant Family Vineyards started in 1972 as contract grape growers specifically for the muscadine varieties. After several years of growing fruit, they transitioned into the you-pick and fresh market industry.

It was only natural that they started making wine out of their grapes and the winery and tasting room opened in 2003. Now with 100 acres of grapes, they are the largest muscadine vineyard in North Carolina and they are literally making thousands of gallons of wine and harvesting literal tons of grapes.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they talk about the making wine in concrete eggs! For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

This month it’s another Best of Cork Talk episode featuring Chuck and Jamey Johnson from Shadow Springs Vineyard & Windsor Run Cellars in Hamptonville, NC!

We first interviewed Chuck and Jamey back in 2019 and released their episode in August of that year. We had a chance to catch up with them recently and that update is at the end of the episode where they tell us about the improvements they’ve made over the past five years. The passion they have for the industry is still very much what makes them who they are. Listen on for more details and see for your self just how passionate they are.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

In this episode of Cork Talk, we talk with Alan Ward from Saint Paul Mountain Farms in Hendersonville, NC! Saint Paul Mountain Farms produces wine as Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards and ciders as Appalachian Ridge Hard Cider. In this conversation, we touch on the history of the farm, what it means to be producing quality wines an ciders, and just how important preserving agricultural land is.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back again! Join us as they talk about the wine style Piquette. For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

This episode was also sponsored by Visit Hendersonville. For more information, please visit https://visithendersonvillenc.org

One of our favorite North Carolina Wine regions to visit is the area just south of Asheville surrounding Hendersonville, NC. There you’ll find 7 unique wineries and vineyards each with a distinctive setting. This region also hosts an American Viticulture Area known as the Crest of the Blue Ridge, Henderson County. We recently had the opportunity to make a quick visit to Hendersonville back in February 2024. The team at Visit Hendersonville arranged our visit. Our recent trip had us visiting four of the seven vineyards, staying in a cozy farmhouse rental, and enjoying dinner in downtown Hendersonville.

Downtown Hendersonville, Credit Sam DeanHendersonville is an easy drive from most cities within North Carolina. With the exception of the coast, you’re looking at about 2 hours for Charlotte or Winston-Salem and Greensboro, and up to 4 hours from the Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. It’s also an easy trip for out of state visitors, starting at just 1 hour from Greenville, South Carolina, 2 hours from Knoxville, Tennessee, and about 4 hours from Roanoke, Virginia.

When we arrived in Hendersonville, we had ample time before our check in, so we decided to stop in at Sawyer Springs Vineyard. This was our first time at Sawyer Springs and it was a great stop. At the time of this post, they offer a table side wine tasting or a wine flight to explore on your own. We decided on the wine tasting. They specialize in small batch wines that are crafted from fun or unusual grape varietals that you don’t find very easily.

Check in time was approaching so we made our way to the farmhouse rental where we stayed for the night. The Wallace House was originally built in the 1800s and completely renovated in 2019. This five bedroom and two bath house sleeps 12 people and is an excellent location for your next visit. The Wallace house is on the vineyard and orchard property of Saint Paul Farms which produces wines for Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards and ciders for Appalachian Ridge Artisan Ciders.

Welcome to the Wallace HouseA wide open family room to enjoyOne of the family tables to enjoy breakfast.After checking in to the Wallace House, we met with Alan Ward of Saint Paul Farms to interview him for our March 2024 episode of Cork Talk! Alan talked to us about his family’s history in the area, why he got interested in growing grapes and apples, and all that he’s doing to try and improve the quality of North Carolina Wine and North Carolina Cider. After wrapping up the interview, we walked over to the tasting room for a quick wine tasting before dinner. We didn’t get a chance to visit the cider tasting room, but we’ve been in the past. It’s always fun and worth a trip!

Welcome to Saint Paul Mountain VineyardsOur Tasting FlightA cozy wood burning fireplace for cold days.We wrapped up our tasting and made the quick drive into downtown to enjoy dinner at Postero Restaurant on North Main Street. Postero specializes in well crafted New American Cuisine fusing different cultures, local ingredients, and a love for food that makes this restaurant a must. While you’re in their dining room, take a look around in the corners and be sure to look up. You might just find one of the 20+ dinosaur figurines that are hidden throughout the building. This tradition started out as a small prank with and quickly ballooned into a feature of the restaurant.

How many dinosaurs can you see? Joe’s shrimp and cacao e pepeMatt’s Sunburst Farms TroutAfter dinner we made our way back to the Wallace House (stopping for a quick ice cream at the Celtic Creamery). When we got back, we enjoyed the peace and quiet and tucked in for the evening.

Saturday brought with it another fun day of wine tastings. We started at Burntshirt Vineyards, only 4 minutes from our farmhouse at Saint Paul Farms. There we started with an interview for our May 2024 episode of Cork Talk with VP of Operations, Jeff Plack. Jeff talked us through the history and property at Burntshirt Vineyards and explained how he got into the wine business. Right after that, we enjoyed lunch at the on-site restaurant and wine bar, the Vintners Table. They offer thoughtful menu of food selections from small plates to larger sandwiches and entrees. If you’re not interested in food, you can still enjoy a tasting flight or wine by the glass or bottle. It’s a great setting to enjoy some wine and food and just relax.

Inside the Vintners Table at Burntshirt VineyardsSpacious Grounds at Burntshirt VineyardsPlenty of seating for wine tastings at Burntshirt VineyardsAfter finishing up our official tour, we had a little time before we needed to head back home, so we stopped in for a tasting at Marked Tree Vineyards. Marked Tree is only 7 minutes from Burntshirt Vineyards so we figured since we were in the neighborhood we needed to stop by. There we enjoyed an excellent tasting with lovely mountain views.

We wish we could have stayed longer and visited the other vineyards in the area, but we had to make it back home to check in on our cat Sami. Plus this way we have another excuse to make it back to Hendersonville very soon.

Welcome to Sawyer Springs WineryThe Chandelier at Marked Tree VineyardsBelow are some wine highlights from the vineyards we visited:

Wellington from Sawyer Springs – This Malvasia Bianca was light and delicate with floral notes and a grassy undertone all supported by bright and clean acids.

Centennial Farm Heritage from Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards – This Riesling has pear and lemon zest with that classic delicate petrol note. It was nicely balanced between citrus and mineral rich notes.

Vidal Blanc from Burntshirt Vineyards – This is a great wine that sits nicely between a Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc. It is grassy with lemon and lime zest with ample acids.

Reserve Chardonnel from Marked Tree Vineyards – This is a great alternative to a chardonnay. It is deep and golden with juicy acids and a toasty oak profile. It is super smooth with an overall note of vanilla and apples.

Special thanks to:

Alan Ward at Saint Paul Farms
Jeff Plack at Burntshirt Vineyards
Hailey at Marked Tree Vineyards
Becca at Postero
Leah Hughes King, Craig Distl, and Michelle Owens at Visit Hendersonville

Sponsored by Visit Hendersonville, https://visithendersonvillenc.org

Our first episode in our “Best of Cork Talk” series is revisiting our conversation with Charles and Ann Edwards from Baker Buffalo Creek Vineyard in Lawndale, NC!

Charles and Ann planted grapes on Ann’s family farm back in 2003. We discuss their inspiration for why they wanted to grow grapes and their desire to keep the farm in the family as well as up and running. We really enjoyed recording the episode back in 2019. It was a relaxing time and reflected the atmosphere and ambiance that you’ll find at Baker Buffalo Creek.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org

This episode features Erik Mitran and Erick Hurtado from Fire Clay Cellars in Pittsoboro, NC! Erik and Erick tell us what it’s like making wine in the lower Haw River AVA. They’re constantly exploring different techniques to make the most of their climate all with the goal of making really good wine. As a familyContinue reading →

This episode features Dave Coventry and Andrew Gorczyca from Mountain Brook Vineyards in Tryon, NC! Dave and Andrew tell us how they’re working hard to demystify wine without robbing it of its magic. Over the past few years since Andrew’s family purchased the vineyard, they have been investing in the property and transforming the experienceContinue reading →

Welcome back for part two! This episode features Bob Binns, Cory Lillberg, Justin Taylor and special guest Karen Parker from Parker-Binns Vineyards in Mill Spring, NC! The team at Parker-Binns Vineyard are doing some great things. They are making the most of their terroir and producing some outstanding wines, while also creating an environment thatContinue reading →

This episode features Bob Binns, Cory Lillberg, and Justin Taylor from Parker-Binns Vineyards in Mill Spring, NC! The team at Parker-Binns Vineyard are doing some great things. They are making the most of their terroir and producing some outstanding wines, while also creating an environment that is family friendly where you can come relax, have fun, and enjoy some great North Carolina Wine.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back. Jesse and Jessica talk to us about wine in the 1700s. For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org/

In the Wine Light we celebrate North Carolina Wine Month! Back in May for the third year, NC Wine Month 2023 looks to be a festive time.

Head out and visit wineries, vineyards, meaderies, and cideries in the month of May.

Share your fun on social media. Use the hashtags #NCWine and #NCWineMonth.

If you’re looking for ideas on how to celebrate North Carolina Wine Month, check back here for a listing of special events and promotions and other ways to celebrate all month long!

Here’s the list we have so far:

All month long! – The official social media accounts of North Carolina Wine are holding giveways. Check out @ncwines on Facebook and Instagram. Three winners will be announced on each Monday of North Carolina Wine Month.
Sunday, May 1st – Tickets for the #NCWine Digital Media Summit go on sale. The summit takes place on Monday, July 17th with pre-summit activities on Saturday, July 15th and Sunday, July 16th.

This episode features Cathy and Dan McLaughlin creators of Our Wine Flights, founding members of Fine Wines of North Carolina and documentarians who filmed Healthy Hope! Cathy and Dan are passionate about helping people in the industry. By establishing the Fine Wines of North Carolina they are seeking to elevate the profile of North Carolina Wine and attract new customers. Their documentary Healthy Hope explores the ground breaking research into the health benefits of the Muscadine grape and all the potential it has to help so many people.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back. Jesse and Jessica talk to us about wine in the 1600s. For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh.

Closing ContentIf you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org/

This episode features Brianna Burns from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services! In her role, she serves as the Executive Director of the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. Her focus is to promote and elevate North Carolina Wine as a brand and to get people to try North Carolina Wine. In the second half, we talk about what North Carolina Wine means and how we can experience it.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back. Jesse and Jessica talk to us about wine in the 1500s and just how much is still sticking around today. For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh.

If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org/

Interested in attending one of the public North Carolina Wine and Grape Council meetings? Head to https://www.sosnc.gov/online_services/calendar/Search and search for NC Wine in the name field.

We hosted our first ever Open that Bottle of North Carolina Wine Nights in 2020 to celebrate our local wine industry during the COVID-19 Pandemic. We continued with another in 2021 and 2022 to kickoff North Carolina Wine Month. So, in 2023, continue to support the industry and to kickoff off North Carolina Wine Month, we’re hosting another Open that Bottle of North Carolina Wine Night. Join us on Saturday, May 6, 2023, to celebrate our local wine industry and all that we love about North Carolina Wine.

So how can you participate?

Select a bottle of North Carolina Wine, Mead, or Cider.
Open it on the evening of May 6, 2023.
Take a picture and post on social media.
Share why you chose that bottle, who you shared it with, and more.
Tag the winery, vineyard, meadery, or cidery and tag us too @NCWineGuys.
And use #NCWineNight and #NCWineMonth on your posts!

Wineries and vineyards across the state are planning special events and promotions.

And be sure to share our Facebook Event with your friends and family!

And don’t forget to share your love of North Carolina Wine during all of May using hashtags #NCWine and #NCWineMonth!

Cheers!

Welcome to Season 5 of Cork Talk! In this episode, we talk with Mat Worrell and Katy Kidd the winemakers at Dynamis Estate Wines in Jonesville, NC! At Dynamis Estate Wines, you’ll find an elevated wine tasting experience in pursuit of defining a premium brand for North Carolina Wine. Mat and Katy talk to us about how this is a winemaker driven experience and how they’re continuing to push their brand even further.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back. In this season, Jesse and Jessica will talk to us about the history of wine. Their first segment covers winemaking in the BC era. For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh.

Closing ContentIf you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

Did you know we have a Patreon page that offers Patron Only content, early access to episode, blooper reels, and more? Head to patreon.com/CorkTalk to learn more and sign up!

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org/

It’s a special Holiday Episode of Cork Talk! We invited a few of our fellow blogger and influencer friends to join us as we reflect on 2022 and talk about a few of our favorite things. In this episode you’ll hear from DeLauren Everitt of Blends & Blubbly, Jessie and Jessica of the Wine Mouths, Arthur Barham of Merlot2Muscadine and Natalie Hampton of Tarheel Taps & Corks!

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back. This time Jesse and Jessica tell us about Brett. For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh.

Closing contentIf you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

Did you know we have a Patreon page that offers Patron Only content, early access to episode, blooper reels, and more? Head to patreon.com/CorkTalk to learn more and sign up

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org/

In this episode, we talk with Kari and Mark Barber of Pilot Mountain Vineyards in Pinnacle, NC! Kari and Mark purchased an established vineyard with a vision to make the most of the view. Their passion for hospitality is a driving force in how they make each guest feel welcome and at home. Wine ClassContinue reading →

In this episode, we talk with Donna and Greg Hutchins from Cellar 4201 in East Bend, North Carolina! Donna and Greg decided to plant a vineyard back in 2003. Once they had grapes growing, they established their customer base by contracting their winemaking with a local custom crush company and began selling their wines atContinue reading →

In this episode, we visited Daveste Vineyards and talked with Caroline Karrick and Meg Tipton. Caroline become one of the owners of the vineyard in 2019 and Meg joined as winemaker in 2020. Since joining Daveste Vineyards, Caroline and Meg have been making improvements both in the tasting room and the winery. Wine Class withContinue reading →

This is a special episode of Cork Talk. We sit down with Amy Michael Theuret, the Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey Coordinator from the North Carolina State Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to talk about a very important topic. The Spotted Lanternfly. The Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) is an invasive species of leafhoppers that feed onContinue reading →

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Join us for part two of our conversation with Mark Friszolowski, the wine maker at Childress Vineyards in Lexington, NC! We continue our discussion focusing in on quality wines, what goes into making a great product, and how the wines at Childress can be considered iconic southern wines. Wine Class with the Wine Mouths isContinue reading →

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In this episode, we visited Mark Friszolowski, the wine maker at Childress Vineyards in Lexington, NC for an extended interview! Mark joined Richard Childress in opening the vineyard and winery in the early 2000s. Since then, Mark has been a fixture in the North Carolina wine industry and has made elevating the quality of NorthContinue reading →

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In this episode, we sit down with Larry and Elisabeth Mueller from Brandon Hills Vineyard in Yadkinville, NC. Larry and Elisabeth purchased the vineyard just over 5 years ago as a way for Larry to embrace his passion for wine. They have made some major changes at the vineyard and have more planned for theContinue reading →

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In this episode, we sit down with Jonah Hoosier of Stony Knoll Vineyards in Dobson, NC. Jonah is director of operations at Stony Knoll which includes vineyard management and winemaker. Stony Knoll Vineyard is situated on a century family farm that has been farmed for over 120 years. Jonah is part of the sixth generationContinue reading →

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The Annual Cider, Wine, and Dine weekend comes once again to Henderson County!

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May is North Carolina Wine Month. Celebrate everything you love about #NCWine!

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We hosted our first ever Open that Bottle of North Carolina Wine Nights in 2020 to celebrate our local wine industry during the COVID-19 Pandemic. We continued with another in 2021 to kickoff North Carolina Wine Month. So, in 2022, continue to support the industry and to kickoff off North Carolina Wine Month, we’re hostingContinue reading →

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The proposed Tryon Foothills AVA will be North Carolina's seventh AVA located in the eastern two thirds of Polk County.

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This episode features Nico von Cosmos from Stardust Cellars in North Wilkesboro, NC! At Stardust Cellars, Nico focuses on recreating ancient winemaking techniques including overwintering, ancestral sparkling wines and meads, and wild fermentations. Biodynamic practices in winemaking and farming are also a driving force that sets Stardust Cellars apart from the others. Biodynamic is anContinue reading →

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The Crest of the Blue Ridge Henderson County is North Carolina's sixth AVA located in most of Henderson County.

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In the Wine Light we continue our series on American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) in North Carolina. Our focus in this post is the fifth AVA in North Carolina, the Appalachian High Country. This is North Carolina’s second AVA shared with another state. In this case, it is two states, Tennessee and Virginia. The petition for creatingContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light we continue our series on American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) in North Carolina. Our focus in this post is the fourth AVA in North Carolina, the Upper Hiwassee Highlands. The petition for creating the Upper Hiwassee Highlands AVA originated from Eric Carlson, owner of Calaboose Cellars, on behalf of himself and members ofContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light we continue our series on American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) in North Carolina. Our focus in this post is the third AVA in North Carolina, the Haw River Valley. The petition for creating the Haw River Valley AVA originated from Patricia McRitchie on behalf of local grape growers and winemakers. The Haw RiverContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light we continue our series on American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) in North Carolina. Our focus in this post is the second oldest and only AVA to overlap another AVA in North Carolina, the Swan Creek AVA. The petition for creating the Swan Creek AVA originated from Raffaldini Vineyards on behalf of the originalContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light is National Drink Wine Day. National Drink Wine Day is celebrated annually on February 18th. This is not to be confused with National Wine Day which is celebrated annually on May 25th. According to the the National Drink Wine Day website, the wine holiday is meant “to spread the love and healthContinue reading →

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This episode features Lyndon Smith, Amie Fields, Kether Smith, and Deric McGuffey from Botanist & Barrel Cidery & Winery! Botanist & Barrel has two locations. The farm, production site, and original tasting room is located in Cedar Grove, NC. They opened a second tasting room in Asheville in 2021 which sells their products as wellContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light we continue our series on American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) in North Carolina. Our focus in this post is the oldest and largest AVA in North Carolina, the Yadkin Valley. The petition for creating the Yadkin Valley AVA originated from Patricia McRitchie on behalf of Shelton Vineyards. The Yadkin Valley name was chosenContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light we’re revisiting our series on American Viticultural Areas (AVAs) with a particular focus on the six AVAs in North Carolina. Over the next few months, we’ll dive into each of these six North Carolina AVAs. We’ll also look at the seventh proposed AVA that’s pending approval. But we’ll start with whatContinue reading →

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Welcome to season 4 of Cork Talk! This episode features Chad and Crista Guebert from Golden Road Vineyards in State Road, NC! Chad and Christa opened the tasting room at the vineyard just last year. Both of them have a background in IT consulting and decided they wanted to get away from their computer screensContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light today, December 23, 2021, is the celebration of Festivus. Created in 1966 by Daniel O’Keefe and popularized during an episode of the hit TV show, Seinfeld, Festivus is celebrated with Feats of Strength and the Airing of Grievances. So, in that spirit, we’re back for the fourth year to air aContinue reading →

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In this episode, we sit down with four of our blogger friends to bring you a special Holiday Episode! In this episode, we feature Pam from Food and Wine Chronicles, Jessica from the Wine Mouths, Arthur from Merlot 2 Muscadine, and Dave from Vino-Sphere! We talk about the things you should look for in aContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light and just in time for the holidays is Mulled Wine and Cider! Mulled Wine and Cider are always favorites in the cooler months of the year. We often serve Mulled Wine during the holidays or on days with wintry weather. We have gone through several iterations of recipes. Most have been madeContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light is Cabernet Franc Day. This wine holiday is celebrated annually on December 4th. Origins According to the Cab Franc Day website, Cabernet Franc is believed to have been established in the Libournais region of southwest France sometime in the 17th century, when Cardinal Richelieu transported cuttings of the vine to theContinue reading →

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This episode features Tim Parks and Lance Hiatt of Marked Tree Vineyard in Hendersonville, NC! We visited the vineyard in the early fall (a perfect time of year) and recorded this conversation with Tim and Lance. Their love of wine started when Lance visited Chablis many years ago. Together, the pair visited many wine regionsContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light is International Merlot Day. This wine holiday is celebrated annually on November 7th. Merlot is one of the most widely planted and noble wine grapes in all the world. It typically is one of first red grapes to bud break, so it sometimes has issues with the late spring frosts we seeContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light is Linden Vineyards. On our return from our trip to the Finger Lakes this summer, we made a couple of stops in Virginia. Our second stop was at Linden Vineyards in Linden. We first visited Linden Vineyards in October of 2019. We had tasted Linden’s wines previously at an American Wine SocietyContinue reading →

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In this episode, we sit down with Lisa, Tim, Claudia, and Josh from Hidden Vineyard in Dobson, North Carolina! The Hidden Vineyard family moved from Ohio to an area that they visited on many occasions on their way to family vacations. They were looking for an established vineyard to purchase so they could make wineContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light is Glen Manor Vineyards. On our return from our trip to the Finger Lakes this summer, we made a couple of stops in Virginia. Our first stop was at Glen Manor Vineyards in Front Royal. We first visited Glen Manor Vineyards in October of 2019. We’d always heard great things aboutContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light is Virginia Wine Month. October is designated as Virginia Wine Month. Outside of North Carolina, Virginia is one of our favorite American wine regions. Virginia’s wine history dates back nearly 400 years. Just 12 years after the first English settlement at Jamestown, the Virginia House of Burgesses passed “Acte 12”. This actContinue reading →

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We recently attended the “Reds Through the Years” event at Zimmerman Vineyards in Trinity, North Carolina. The theme for the evening was Bordeaux, tannins, and vintage wines. Zimmerman opened on June 1, 2007 and has been producing top quality wines ever since. Wines are made offsite at Childress Vineyards by Winemaker Mark Frizolowski from fruitContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light is International Grenache Day. This wine holiday is celebrated yearly on the third Friday in September. In 2021, that falls on September 17th. Grenache Day celebrates the red grape Grenache as it’s known in France. In Spain, it’s known as Garnacha and is one of the most widely planted grapes inContinue reading →

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Welcome to the Yadkin Valley tourism episode! We sit down with Craig Distl and Thomas Salley and talk about all things tourism for the Yadkin Valley in North Carolina. No matter if you’re familiar with North Carolina Wine or if you’re new to the industry, you’ll learn a lot about what the area has toContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light is International Cabernet Day. This wine holiday is celebrated on the Thursday before Labor Day. In 2021, that falls on September 2nd, but it can occur in late August or early September depending on the year. So, is Cabernet Day for Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, or both? It seems that mostContinue reading →

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In this episode, we sit down with Bess and Alexa Collins of Kefi Vineyard & Winery in Monroe, North Carolina! Bess has always been fan of being outdoors and growing things has been part of her life growing up. Alexa is her daughter and has been inspired by her mother’s love for building something toContinue reading →

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August is North Carolina Grape Month. Celebrate everything you love about locally grown grapes in the Tar Heel State!

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We’re back again with Tina Smith and Nadia Hetzel of Cypress Bend Vineyards! Located in Wagram, NC, Cypress Bend is in a unique location in North Carolina where the Muscadine grape grows well and produces an outstanding wine. Tina and Nadia talk through their abundant wine list. They tell us about the differences between eachContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light is the 2021 #NCWine Digital Media Summit. This is our fourth annual summit and was previously known at the Bloggers Summit. A Summit is Born The original Bloggers Summit began as a way to bring together bloggers, digital influencers, wineries, and vineyards to learn about digital media, to connect, and toContinue reading →

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In this episode, we sit down with Tina Smith and Nadia Hetzel of Cypress Bend Vineyards! Located in Wagram, NC, Cypress Bend is in a unique location in North Carolina where the Muscadine grape grows well and produces an outstanding wine. Tina Smith and her husband, Dan, decided to plant grapes on Dan’s family landContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light is National Rosé Day. This wine holiday was established in 2014 by Bodvár House of Rosés as way to celebrate everyone’s favorite pink drink. National Rosé Day is celebrated annually on the Second Saturday of June. In 2021, that’s Saturday, June 12th. Rosé is made in three ways: Maceration – TheContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light are two wine holidays for the last full week of North Carolina Wine Month, National Wine Day and National Chardonnay Day. Both are celebrated during the same week in 2021. National Wine Day is celebrated annually on May 25th. This is not to be confused with National Drink Wine Day whichContinue reading →

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In this episode, we sit down with Cynthia and Jim Douthit from Grassy Creek Vineyard and Winery in State Road, North Carolina! Cynthia and Jim are two of the owners of Grassy Creek Vineyard. They started the business in 2000 and planted their grapes in 2003. This was Jim’s second vineyard. He first planted 10Continue reading →

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In the Wine Light are ways to celebrate North Carolina Wine Month! May is officially NC Wine Month. And after the disaster that was 2020, folks want to get out and celebrate. So, what are some ways to celebrate NC Wine Month? We’re glad you asked! Here are a few of our ideas! Visit aContinue reading →

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May is North Carolina Wine Month. Celebrate everything you love about #NCWine!

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In this episode we talk with Wendy and Kelvin Wooten of Moon Lake Vineyards in Olin, North Carolina! Wendy and Kelvin are grape growers in part of the Swan Creek AVA. The Wootens planted their grapes in 2007 in a very difficult year. They were up against an late season freeze which put their newlyContinue reading →

The post A Grower’s Favorite Day is Harvest appeared first on NC Wine Guys.

We hosted our first ever Open that Bottle of North Carolina Wine Nights in 2020 to celebrate our local wine industry during the COVID-19 Pandemic. While the pandemic is still affecting all of our daily lives, things are slowly improving. To continue to support the industry and to kickoff off North Carolina Wine Month, we’re hostingContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light is one year with COVID. On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization officially declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Stay at home orders soon followed including ours here in North Carolina on March 17, 2020. Life changed drastically overnight. From March 18 – May 22, 2020, tasting rooms in North Carolina wereContinue reading →

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We’re honoring women in the wine industry. We take a look back at our earlier episodes and found clips that highlight the importance of women in the industry. We would like to thank all of the women who help to make North Carolina Wine what it is today. In this episode we feature: Amy HeltonContinue reading →

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In this episode we feature Linville Falls Winery in Linville Falls, NC! We talk to Linda Wiseman and her two daughters, Jessica and Lindsay, about all things that make Linville Falls Winery Mountain Grown and Mountain Made. Jack Wiseman, Linda’s father, is the winemaker and the man responsible for the vision that is Linville FallsContinue reading →

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Welcome to Cork Talk Season 3! In this episode, we talk with Deane and Becky Muhlenberg of Haze Gray Vineyards in Dobson, North Carolina. Deane and Becky have a long history of military service, and they honor that in so many ways at Haze Gray Vineyards. Deane and Becky talk about how they started 5Continue reading →

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In the Wine Light is a look ahead at North Carolina Wine for 2021. Let’s be honest. 2020 was a dumpster fire of a year. From COVID-19 to the late spring frosts and freezes that wiped out many spring grape buds and flowers to the seemingly never ending rain, 2020 was a year that we andContinue reading →

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In the Wine Light today, December 23, 2020, is the celebration of Festivus. Created in 1966 by Daniel O’Keefe and popularized during an episode of the hit TV show, Seinfeld, Festivus is celebrated with Feats of Strength and the Airing of Grievances. So, in that spirit, we’re back for the fourth year to air aContinue reading →

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In this episode we interview David Bower of the Shelton Badgett NC Center for Viticulture and Enology at Surry Community College! David holds the position of Winemaker and Enology Instructor at the college. David tells us about his involvement at the college and how it blends his interested in winemaking and teaching. His background withContinue reading →

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This episode features Sofia Lilly of Overmountain Vineyards in Tryon, North Carolina! We visited Sofia at the vineyard on a sunny day in October. Their extensive patio and spread out seating allowed us to record this episode while observing social distancing practices. Sofia talks to us about how Overmountain Vineyards started as a small familyContinue reading →

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Sami excited about new wines from Défi Wines by Botanist & Barrel

In the Wine Light is our sweet wine cat, Sami. Long time followers know Sami as our little photo bomber in our wine photos. It started by accident, but now, we do try to get her in the shot. Her fans are sometimes concerned if she’s missing from the photo.

Sami relaxing before dinner

You’re probably wondering why we’re celebrating Sami this week. Well, you see, we celebrate Sami’s birthday on November 17th. We don’t actually know when her birthday is or even how old she is exactly. Sami is a rescue kitty. She was saved by the Saving Southern Kitties from a high kill shelter in Greenville, South Carolina. Her vet records listed November 17th as her birthday, but that might just be the day she was pulled from the shelter.

Sami loves her boxes especially when they’re from Chewy.

Saving Southern Kitties is a terrific non-profit organization run by our dear friend, Susan, working to save cats from high kill shelters in the Carolinas. Based in the Charlotte area, this volunteer organization is top notch and does fantastic work. Visit their website to find out how to volunteer, donate money, purchase fun kitty merchandise, or see their list of adoptable cats.

Sami doing on her favorite things – relaxing on the couch

Sami is sweet, a little crazy, and VERY loud. She always has something to say. Sami loves laying the sun, sleeping under her blanket on the couch for hours, cardboard boxes, and sitting outside on the patio with her humans. She adds such joy to our lives. We hope she has a very happy birthday and a PURR-fect day!

InTheWineLight #SamiTheWineCat

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In the Wine Light is wine styles for fall. We don’t know about you, but fall is our favorite season. Those warms days and cool nights are a welcome respite from the heat and humidity of the long Carolina summer.

With the change of seasons comes a change in the wines we drink. Here are some of the favorite kinds of wines we like to enjoy as the days get shorter and the leaves turn their brilliant colors.

Linn Cove Viaduct around Grandfather Mountain along the Blue Ridge Parkway

Rosés – Rosés are typically associated with the warm days of spring and the sweltering hot days of summer, but rosé is also perfect for Fall. Whether it’s a warm afternoon in the sun or with your Thanksgiving dinner, rosé is always a perfect pairing.

Sparkling Wine – We’re big fans of sparkling wine anytime of year. Fall is often about celebration with Halloween and Thanksgiving. Bubbles are a perfect way to start any celebration or a Tuesday night dinner.

Full Bodied and/or Oaked Whites – As the days get cooler it’s usually good to move from those crisp and cold wines of summer into a more full bodied white wine. Think Petit Manseng or Viognier. Add a little oak such is in a nice Chardonnay and you have the perfect pairing with fall foods featuring butternut squash or pumpkin.

Light Reds – Light Oaked or No Oak – The weather can still be quite warm in fall and the food typically isn’t as heavy as in winter, so it’s the perfect time for light reds whether they be oaked or not. Think a Loire Valley Style Cabernet Franc or a nouveau style wine. A drier muscadine, Chambourcin or Sangiovese are also good choices.

Cider – Who doesn’t love a good fresh apple in fall? So, why not enjoy a nice cider? Many apples can pack some good tannins, so ciders can be heftier than you might think. Cider also pairs well with Thanksgiving dinner.

Mead – Mead is a perfect fall beverage. From traditional styles to cysers with apple or pear, mead pairs perfectly with warm days, cool nights, sausages on the grill, Thanksgiving turkey and even pumpkin pie.

What wines do you enjoy in fall? Do you have a favorite fall food and wine pairing? Leave us a comment and let us know.

Cheers!

InTheWineLight #WinesForFall #FallWines

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Brushy Mountain Limbertwig Apple – This variety is thought to have originated in the Brushy Mountains of NC.

In the Wine Light is North Carolina Cider Week. We celebrate NC Cider Week annually during October or November. This year October 19th – 25th has been designated as a week to honor North Carolina Cider!

So, what is cider exactly? Here, we’re obviously discussing what’s commonly called “hard cider”. This cider at its most basic level is fermented apple juice.

Similar to making wine from grapes, cider is made from crushing apples and fermenting the juice. The sugar content of apples is lower than grapes, so ciders are typically lower in alcohol than wines. To make apple wine, sugar is typically added in fermentation to allow for wine like alcohol.

Here in North Carolina, many cider apples are sourced from the Hendersonville area and from the Brushy Mountains in Wilkes and Alexander Counties. Cider producers range from those in the mountains to the southern piedmont to urban areas like Charlotte and Durham.

So, how do you celebrate NC Cider Week? By drinking a locally grown and produced NC Cider, of course! You can also celebrate by visiting local cideries and by attending the NC Cider Week Sip and Meet on Saturday, October 24th at the Chatham Beverage District in Pittsboro. This event will feature cideries from the Piedmont of NC.

Cheers!

InTheWineLight #NCCiderWeek #NCCider

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In this episode, we sit down with Ken Gulaian and Kari Heerdt of Round Peak Vineyards in Mt Airy, North Carolina! Ken and Kari moved to North Carolina in 2008. Before landing in North Carolina, they lived in California which is where they fell in love with wineries and vineyards in some of California’s most well known regions.

They purchased Round Peak Vineyards shortly after moving. They continued maintain the existing vineyard which focuses on French and Italian varietals. Soon after opening, they noticed an opportunity to release a second line of wines, and Skull Camp was born. This quickly branched out into a brewery and smokehouse restaurant.

As a result, they offer a very well rounded profile sure to meet the palate of any customer. No matter what location you visit, you’re sure to find that each establishment embraces the feeling of being relaxing, casual, and fun.

Wine Class with the Wine Mouths is back! This time Jesse and Jessica talk to us about some of the things that are added to wine to improve the quality and make it ready for drinking. For more information about the Wine Mouths, head to https://www.winemouths.com/ or find them on Facebook and Instagram @Winemouths. The Wine Mouths theme was written and performed by Joshua Morris. You can find him at twitter.com/joshtimejosh.

Closing Content If you like this episode, please leave us a rating and review. It really helps spread the word. Subscribing and sharing with a friend is another great way to support Cork Talk.

Did you know we have a Patreon page that offers Patron Only content, early access to episode, blooper reels, and more? Head to patreon.com/CorkTalk to learn more and sign up!

This episode was made possible in part by a grant from the North Carolina Wine and Grape Council. For more information, please visit https://www.ncwine.org/

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In the Wine Light is Drink Local Wine Week. Drink Local Wine Week is celebrated annually during the second full week of October, so for 2020, the dates are October 11th – 17th.

This week started in 2008 by the Drink Local Wine organization to encourage wine writers and bloggers to write about and celebrate local wines. The organization has since taken a break, but this week long celebration has continued annually.

Local wine means different things to different people. Some say a wine is local if it’s sold locally. Some say it’s local if it’s produced locally. And still others say it’s local only if it’s both sourced from locally grown products (grapes, other fruits, honey) AND locally produced. We have some thoughts on that in another post.

Whatever you consider a local wine, celebrate with a local wine or two this week and tell others about it.

And if you want to join the conversation about local North Carolina Wine, join our new Facebook group, Support Local North Carolina Wine – #NCWine!

Cheers!

InTheWineLight #DrinkLocalWineWeek #DrinkLocal

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Orange Wine Flavors Courtesy of Wine Folly

In the Wine Light is Virtual Orange Wine Week. This day was originally started by Amanda Clair Goodwin (known at The Real Housewine) in 2018 as National Orange Wine Day to be celebrated annually on October 6th. This year it has been expanded to a whole week to be celebrated from October 5th – 10th.

The goal of National Orange Wine Day and now Virtual Orange Wine Week is to according to the day’s website, “bring greater awareness to this beautiful, yet lesser-known style of wine in a way that is nonjudgmental, unintimidating, and inclusive.”

So, you may be thinking what is Orange Wine? No, we’re not talking wine made from oranges. We’re talking about a white wine made from white grapes. With orange wine, unlike traditional white wine where the skins are removed, the pressed juice remains on the skins to ferment for days to weeks or even months. This gives the resulting wine an orange hue.

Orange wines are more bold and complex than many white wines. They might have flavors not typically associated with white wine. Also, they can be more tannic due to the contact with the grape skins. Orange wines are thought of have originated in what is now the country of Georgia.

Have you had an orange wine? Some past and current producers of orange wine in North Carolina are Sanctuary Vineyards in Jarvisburg, McRitchie Winery & Ciderworks in Thurmond, DéFi Wines (Botanist & Barrel) in Cedar Grove, and Lazy Elm Vineyard & Winery in Mocksville.

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