"Another Year"

If you've been following my blog for a while, you know I believe in taking control of my own birthday.  I wrote about my decentralized birthday celebration last year.  

Not sure when it began, but somewhere during my adulthood, I realized that if I were going to have a fabulous birthday, it was going to be up to me to plan it.  Over the years, I hosted tea parties, shoe parties, white breakfasts, destination parties and the like.  This year, I wanted something low-key but fun, so I gathered some of my vino loving friends and headed to a winery about an hour away. 



I have to say, I think we were all impressed.  I mean, it's not like we live in Napa Valley.  It's North Carolina, not a place exactly known for it's wine.  However, it seems that more and more wineries (pretty good ones) are popping up in and around our area.

Childress Vineyards

The grounds were stunning. And while we didn't exactly have a beautiful weather day on Saturday, that didn't put a damper on our fun. 

Yes, we were photo bombed by our sommelier.

We arrived at the beautiful facility and headed straight to the tasting room.

We had the option to taste sweet wines or dry ones.  I'm a dry girl myself. 

The wines were surprisingly delicious.  My favorites were two fabulous reserve reds.

2010 Reserve Malbec

Earthy and luxurious, Malbec entertains the senses with a minty nose, cherry fruit flavors, hints of leather, and subtle tannins.

2010 Reserve Petit Verdot

Lush and rich with a nose of plum and flavors of blueberry and peppermint, this wine pairs nicely with lamb, short ribs, or roasted duck.

After the tasting we had a delicious lunch in the bistro.

 

Can I just say there is something about Sangria in Mason Jar that just calls my name.  Anyway, the food was yummy, and the place was packed!

Unfortunately during lunch the skies opened up and our vineyard tour didn't happen, but we had a fab time despite the inclement weather.

I'd highly recommend a visit if you're in the area.  Thanks to my wonderful friends, I came home with a little reminder of an afternoon well spent. 

 

Another year, another fabulous birthday.