Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Winegrowers of Excellence 2009!

Laurel Gray Vineyards, in both the Yadkin Valley and Swan Creek American Viticulture Areas, was awarded the very prestigious award of 2009 Wine Growers of Excellence in North Carolina. This award was presented by top industry scientists and researchers within North Carolina at the 17th annual North Carolina Wine Growers Association meeting held at the Greensboro Marriott Hotel and Convention Center on February 5th – 7th, 2010. The judges were Dr. Turner Sutton, Plant Pathology NC State University; Dr. John Havlin, Soil Science NC State University; and Dr. Sarah Spayd, Viticulture and Extension at NC State University.


The criteria for receiving Wine Grower of Excellence Award are the following: 1. The vineyard must be at least 5 years of age and producing consistently high quality wine grapes. 2. The award recipient must be a member of the NC Wine Growers Association and show an ongoing commitment to the betterment of the North Carolina wine and grape industry.


Laurel Gray Vineyards is located at 5726 Old US Hwy 421W in Hamptonville, NC and produces estate grown vinifera grapes on 15 acres of rolling farmland. Benny and Kim Myers own and operate the vineyard, winery and tasting room with assistance from their daughter Ashley Laurel Bond, son-in-law Jay Bond, and son Taylor Gray Myers. Laurel Gray is just off I-77 at exit #73B and Hwy 421 at exit #267 in Yadkin County. The vineyard and tasting room are open to the public Wednesday through Sunday.


In closing remarks of the award presentation, Dr. John Havlin remarked: “Laurel Gray Vineyards is what a North Carolina vineyards is supposed to look like.”


For more information visit www.laurelgray.com