As winter approaches some local residents just might want to cozy up with a glass or two of wine on a cold day.
Ten local wineries have the ticket, or passport, for those looking to enjoy a piece of one of the area’s largest industries during the winter months.
Winter wine passports are now available, and will be accepted at participating wineries from Nov. 27 through Apr. 3. This year Adagio, Brushy Mountain, Carolina Heritage, Elkin Creek, Grassy Creek, Herrera, Round Peak, Slightly Askew and Stony Knoll wineries and Skull Camp Brewery will participate in the wine passport program.
Additionally, 18 other local businesses, including area shops and restaurants, are offering discounts in conjunction with the passport.
Passports are $50 per person and $85 for a couple if purchased before Nov. 27. After that date, passports will still be available, but the cost will be $55 for a single passport or $95 per couple.
This year’s winter wine passport entitles a participant to a tasting at each participating location. Participants also receive a commemorative trivet in which they can collect corks from each of the many area wineries.
There will also be “food and wine weekends” in the months of January, February and March. On these special weekends wineries will prepare a dish which incorporates a wine or pairs well with one of the winery’s wines.
Carolina Heritage Vineyard co-owner Pat Cowell said the passports are available through April 3., with no limit on the number issued. However, she said those looking to make the most of a passport purchase should buy their passport sooner rather than later.
“We encourage people to buy them early, so they have as much flexibility as possible to enjoy every winery on their own schedule,” said Cowell.
Winter wine passports can be purchased online at www.SurryWineries.com or at any of the ten participating wineries.
For more information regarding the program call (336) 366-3301.