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Brought to you by "The Weekend Winers"

"It's Not About the Wine; Just the Experience."

As a couple of folks who enjoy good wine and a little back roads adventure, we want to share our visits to the wineries nearby. The number of wineries in North Carolina and Virginia continues to grow, and as we travel to as many of them as we can, we'll offer our impressions, and just maybe some information you don't normally find in the brochures. We hope you find Byway & Vine enjoyable, informative, and a place where you can share your experiences too.

Friday, March 12, 2010

Old Stone Winery and Vineyard

On a beautiful Sunday, it was time again for another Weekend Winers adventure.  This time, the destination was south of Greensboro down I-85 toward Charlotte on Hwy 52. We were headed for Salisbury, NC to visit Old Stone Winery, one of North Carolina’s oldest wineries; operating for more than 10 years. About six miles down 52 from the I85/52 interchange you will find the Old Stone storefront about 100 feet off the road.

If you've traveled around and visit many of the wineries, don't hesitate to stop.  This is truly a classic case of "you can't judge a book by its cover".
As you enter this fine establishment, a treat awaits you, starting with a wide selection of excellent wines.
You'll will find spacious display area and tasting room, home wine-making products and a wide range of wine accessories.
Our host was also the resident winemaker, Mr. Ben Farriss.  While pouring for several tasting patrons he spun stories about the wine and Old Stone history.



One story had to do with the image of the horse seen on several Old Stone labels. As it turns out, it's the owner’s horse that roamed the winery land.
At first glance, Old Stone displays only a storefront location, but the winery itself is very large, covering more than 100 acres. Unfortunately, the horse enjoyed running through the vineyards with no regard to the grapes. This presented a unique situation when it came to harvesting.  Operators decided to use the horses’ image on the wine labels and offer a variety called "Wild Horse." After a time, the horse was moved to another area to live out his life.  He has since moved on.

Tastings are $10.00 for all 13 - 16 of their selections. A ½ tasting for $5.00 is also available; selecting either dry or sweet. All tastings include the logo tasting glass.
Crackers are offered as you move through the process to help clear your palette or just satisfy the urge to munch. Ask about "Lounge Around".  It's a great name, and an interesting wine.

The winery was started by the Brown family, then in 2009, it was purchased by Darin and Naomi Griffin of Charlotte. The Weekend Winers wish them continued success at this great stop along Byway and Vine.

The winery is open Tuesday-Saturday 11:00-6:00 and Sunday 1:00-5:00. Wines are sold online, Harris Teeter, and other retail specialty stores. Click to see upcoming events and news on their website.Old Stone News and Events

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