All roads lead to Surry County in the Yadkin Valley on Saturday, April 18, as three wineries host events, including the official grand opening of North Carolina’s newest winery, Haze Gray Vineyards.
For folks in the Charlotte region, the events are less than two hours away, while folks in the Winston-Salem area can reach the wineries in about an hour.
Haze Gray, just outside Dobson, draws its name from the color of U.S. naval ships. Owners Deane and Becky Muhlenberg have long-standing military ties, including Deane’s three-decade career as a Navy flight officer.
The Muhlenbergs took a former corn and tobacco farm and transformed it into a nine-acre vineyard with a well-appointed tasting room showcasing mountain views. The winery held a soft opening in December and makes it official on April 18 with a celebration that includes a DJ spinning retro tunes, a food truck and fun activities. The event runs from noon to 5 p.m.
About 25 minutes from Haze Gray, Grassy Creek Vineyard and Winery will hold a “topping out” party for its Red Barn Tasting Room and release its 2016 Red Barn Blend, a popular wine that sells out every year.
Although Grassy Creek opened in 2005, owners Jim and Cynthia Douthit never got around to installing a weather vane atop the renovated tasting room barn. When they came across a vintage weather vane recently at a charity auction, the decision was made to “top out” the winery. The event is 3-6 p.m. and includes the wine release, music from a local singer/songwriter, the installation of the weather vane and free picnic-style food (while supplies last).
In between Grassy Creek and Haze Gray is the state’s largest family-owned estate winery, Shelton Vineyards. Taking place that day at Shelton is the annual British Car Gathering, the Southeast’s largest display of vintage British automobiles.
More than 200 cars are on display, including Austin Healeys, Jaguars, MGs, Triumphs and Bentleys. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and a picnic, sip wine and view the beautiful cars. The restaurant on property will be open, and the winery will have tours and tastings. Food trucks will also be on-site.
Details for all three events and more are available at www.YadkinValleyNC.com.
