Wine Time
Wine Time: Enjoy sips and swirls at regional tasting events
Rail Reserve
May 7, June 11 & September 3
Bryson City
Hop aboard Great Smoky Mountains Railroad for a sunset dinner train ride that joins local cheeses, an entrée, and dessert with a sampling of eight North Carolina-made wines selected by the French Broad Vignerons. The three-hour tours depart from Bryson City and travel to the Fontana Trestle for the views. $129, www.gsmr.com
Turkey Trail Wine Festival
May 14
Glen Alpine
Presented by Lake James Cellars, this inaugural festival is a chance to sample pours from about a dozen regional wineries. Held at the winsome 1913 manor-turned-B&B, The Inn at Glen Alpine, the mountain shindig also offers barbecue bites, live music, and goods from local shops and artisans. $20, www.theinnatglenalpine.com
Home Winemaking Showcase
June 18
Laurel Springs
Alleghany County winemaking supplier Grape Stompers hosts this eighth annual showcase of home wine producers. As the state’s only publicly judged wine competition, with over 25 amateur winemakers pouring the best of their homemade vinos in an array of categories, it’s a fun way to sample everything from a chardonnay to a garlic wine. And at the modest price of $5, the experience is surely worth more than the cost of the complimentary glass. www.grapestompers.com