Wine lovers have plenty of ways to celebrate the state’s $1.7 billion wine and grape industry in September during North Carolina Wine and Grape Month.
The annual celebration aligns with the traditional harvest season of grapes across the state. The N.C. Wine and Grape Growers Council, which promotes the industry, is encouraging consumers to visit local wineries during the month.
“North Carolina is home to more than 180 wineries, and each one is as unique as the wines it offers,” said the Agriculture Commissioner. “On top of that, the state has 525 grape growers from the mountains to the coast.”
The state has four American Viticultural Areas: Yadkin Valley, Swan Creek, Haw River and Upper Hiwassee Highlands. Each is federally recognized for its distinctive combination of soil, climate, elevation and wine characteristics. Consumers can find a list of N.C. wineries with maps and contact information online at www.bit.ly/NCWineries.
Wineries will offer a variety of special events in September, from wine tastings and grape stomps to music festivals and farm-to-table dinners.
North Carolina is the 10th-largest producer of wine in the nation and grows about 2,300 acres of grapes annually. The wine and grape industry employs nearly 8,000 workers across the state. More information about the industry is available at www.ncwine.org.