The High Country Wines
Yield High-End Tastes
The defining standard that sets the High Country wineries apart from others is the high elevation viticulture. Wine that is produced at high altitudes is shown to have increased levels of natural acidity and flavor, due to the higher radiation that makes photosynthesis more efficient and plants healthier. Grape growers who cultivate their vines at higher altitude can also enjoy an extended growing season.
Besides the palatable perks of drinking wine grown in high altitudes, studies have been performed showing that wine from regions such as the High Country are even better for your heart and are known to increase life expectancy more so than wines from flat regions and valleys since the elevation gives the wine an increased level of polyphenols, the organic chemicals that are widely distributed in plant foods such as red grapes. The grapes from the High Country not only produce a tastier vintage but a heart-healthier one too. We’ll drink to that!
One of the local favorites is Banner Elk Winery, which is actually a vineyard on what used to be a blueberry farm. It is the first commercial winery to be built in Avery and Watauga counties. The winery is fully operational from the growing of the grapes to the winemaking process, bottling and sales at the winery.
Located just north of Banner Elk, the vineyard makes for a perfect stop while touring the High Country and offers a variety of wines including Cabernet Sauvignon, Seyval Blanc and several local varieties. The wines have won many medals at wine competitions including Best Cabernet in State (2006), Best Rose in State (2008), and a new Cabernet hybrid, The Marechal Foch, which was recently released, has already won many awards including Gold Medal at the Blue Ridge Wine Festival (2008).
Tastings and tours of the processing area and vineyards are available year-around and are given Tuesday through Sunday from noon–6 p.m. Guests are encouraged to enjoy a picnic and a glass of wine at one of the winery’s picnic areas, and a chipping and putting golf hole are also available on its grounds. During the summer and fall, guests of Banner Elk Winery are encouraged to come and listen to local musicians play while enjoying wine by the glass.
Stay at Banner Elk Winery’s estate inn, Blueberry Villa B&B Inn, which overlooks the trout pond and vineyards for a complete vineyard experience. The inn features eight bedrooms and is host to many corporate events and weddings. Each exquisitely decorated room is themed after a different grape or wine. For more information, call Blueberry Villa and Banner Elk Winery at 828-898-9090 or visit www.bannerelkwinery.com.
Most vineyards and wineries are open for tours and tastings, and many host special events and festivals. Be sure to look for vintages from local vineyards at area restaurants and pair them with the delicious cuisine of the High Country.