Wet your pallet
Burke County is known for a lot of things. There’s the scenery - Table Rock Mountain, Lake James and its picturesque backdrop, McGalliard Falls in Valdese and Lake Rhodhiss in the eastern part of the county. And the rich local history – Burke County was home to US Senator Sam Ervin. The Waldensians picked Valdese as their place to call home in America and at one time mineral springs in Connelly Springs were thought to heal people suffering from particular diseases. But now Burke County is known for something else – a brewery and several unique wineries.
Waldensian Heritage Wines
In 1893 the Waldenses came from the Cottian Alps of Northern Italy looking for a new place to call home. After settling in Burke County, in the area later named the town of Valdese, they quickly adjusted to American living, incorporating old traditions, and old ways of living, with the new. One tradition they brought with them was their wine making. The Waldensian Heritage Winery offers different reds, whites and blush style wines. They use Muscacdine, Carlos ad Scuppernong grapes. The winery’s rustic atmosphere – it’s located in an old barn, surrounded by a small vineyard – makes visitors feel comfortable and feel right at home. The tasting room has several tables where locals meet, bringing snacks to have with their favorite glass of wine. The Waldensian winery is the oldest winery in the county. The winery is family free, offering non-alcoholic ciders for the underage crowd. The winery is located at 2340 Quail Run, Connelly Springs. The phone number is 828.879.9271. Be sure to check them out on Facebook, too.
South Creek Vineyard and Winery
Frank and Debra Bolden are the founders of South Creek Vineyards and Winery. Located in an old farm house, far off the main road, down a long dirt drive, and surrounded by a beautiful vineyard, the winery is nearly picture perfect. Visitors can sit on the wooden deck, enjoy the summer breeze and sample one of the bold red wines or crisp white wines. Frank, who has traveled around through Europe and places in the United States to study the art of making wine, said his wine-making technique is best classed as Bordeaux, which takes its name from the winemakers of Bordeaux, France. Frank ages his wines in oak barrels, some for as long as 24 months. In addition to their wines, the winery also features wine accessories, clothing, such as T-shirts and hats. The winery is only open April through December and they host events, like weddings. Contact the winery at 828.652.5729. The winery is located 2240 South Creek Road, Nebo. The winery also has a Facebook page, so check it out.
The Lame James Cellars Winery and Old Mill Antiques
Betty and Mike Fowler started making wine in their basement to give as gifts to family, friends and neighbors. They started making wine after their son, Josh, got married and served wine he had made at his wedding reception. “We’ve always enjoyed wine and visiting wineries,” Betty said, adding that her husband calls their winery, “A hobby that got out of hand.” Their first wine was a dry red wine, Betty says. Now, at any given time the winery features about 18 different wines – dry and sweet – the biggest selection in the county. For the past several years they have bought their grapes and other fruits from different vineyards and farms throughout North Carolina. But this year the winery will get to harvest some of its own grapes from its vineyard in Glen Alpine, something the winemakers are excited about. When asked what her favorite wine is, Betty said it all depends on what she’s in the mood for, also comparing it to trying to pick a favorite child. Her favorite dinner wine is the Mimosa Red, a best seller since its release, or the Merlot, which won a gold medal at the state fair. Now, if she’s just relaxing on the porch, her favorite “porch” wine is either the recently released Watermelon Wine or the Linville Mist. The winery is located at 204 E. Main Street, Glen Alpine. The number is 828.584. 4551. The winery also is home to the Old Mill Antiques store, where antique dealers display and sell their findings. Be sure to check them out on Facebook, too.
Catawba Valley Brewing Company
More than 10 years ago a business, which started from a beginner’s home brewing given as a gift, was tapped. What started as an appreciation for good beer is now a passion for making good beer. The Catawba Valley Brewing Company, located in the heart of downtown Morganton, got its humble start with brothers Scott and Billy Pyatt, and Billy’s wife, Jetta. In 1999, after acquiring all of the needed equipment the brewery settled in an old mill building in Glen Alpine, which actually is now home to Lake James Cellars Winery, previously mentioned. CVBC quickly became known for its tasteful, unique ales. Including the seasonal beers, the brewery features more than 10 different types of beers – something for every palate – including dark, reds and a cream ale. In addition to the great beer, there’s the music. The brewery also has open mic night on Thursdays with Codex Sound Company and bands such as Southern Culture on the Skids, Marcy Playground and Yarn have performed in the tasting room. The tasting room, located at 212 South Green Street, is open on Thursdays and Fridays from 5 p.m. – 11 p.m. The number is 828.430.6883.
Water in our Veins–Meet Lake James Real Estate
Please call us if we can help with any of your real estate needs at Lake James – who better to help you than people who live, play and work here!
Polly Leadbetter – Owner/Broker P/ 828-584-9999 C/ 828-443-5407
Shane Cook – Sales P/828-584-9999 C/828-443-3205
Rhonda Edge – Sales P/828-584-9999 C/828-443-6595
Amanda Hotchkiss – Sales P/ 828-584-9999 C/ 828-335-3001
Marc Parham – Sales P/828-584-9999 C/828-443-1337
Denice Rechtiene – Sales P/828-584-9999 C/828-432-6976
