"Wine-ing Through the Yadkin Valley" takes place May 17and 18 this year. From a press release:

"The fertile fields of the Yadkin Valley which wind through Yadkin and Surry Counties at the eastern edge of the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area are becoming known internationally for the grapes grown and the wine made there. In fact, according to the NC Department of Commerce, the North Carolina wine and grape industry generates an annual economic impact of $1.28 billion and supports nearly 7,600 jobs.

As part of its mission to support economic development in the 25 westernmost counties of North Carolina, the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area Partnership is offering an opportunity for people to discover this agricultural treasure aboard a deluxe motorcoach on a two-day excursion into Western North Carolina’s wine country on May 17 and 18.

The trip [begins] May 17 in the parking lot of the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center, located at Milepost 384 on the Parkway in south Asheville. The two-day travel package includes transportation, a visit to four Yadkin Valley wineries with wine tastings, two small town tours, admission to two museums, a traditional music jam session at the historic EARLE Theatre in Mount Airy, two meals and overnight accommodations at a Hampton Inn.

Cost for the trip is $199 per person, double occupancy, or $261 single, based on a minimum of 40 paying persons. For more information or to make reservations, contact Amy Hollifield 298-5330 x 301 or email amy@blueridgeheritage.com."