The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau of the Department of the Treasury Approves the Establishment of Swan Creek American Viticultural Area (AVA), Second in North Carolina
April 30, 2008
Ronda, NC, April 30, 2008—The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau of the Department of the Treasury approved the establishment of the Swan Creek region of the Yadkin Valley as an American Viticultural Area effective May 27, 2008.
The Swan Creek AVA is the second AVA in North Carolina, preceded by the Yadkin Valley AVA. Wines made from grapes grown within the geographical boundaries of the Swan Creek AVA may now carry that designation on their labels as well as the Yadkin Valley AVA.
U.S. Representative Virginia Foxx, supporter of the Swan Creek AVA and representative of the district, said, “The approval of the Swan Creek wine region is tremendous news for North Carolina wine makers and the larger agricultural community. I am confident that this new viticulture area will provide an economic boost to both local vineyards and the people of Wilkes, Yadkin and Iredell Counties. I look forward to helping North Carolina growers like Raffaldini Vineyards and the associated vineyards of Swan Creek to continue to thrive and create sustainable economic growth in their communities.”
Chief sponsor of the petition for the AVA, Raffaldini Vineyards, notes that the designation “aides our collective efforts to educate consumers about the quality of Swan Creek wines and what makes them unique from the rest of North Carolina and the Yadkin Valley.”
The Swan Creek AVA encompasses 160-180 sq. miles in Wilkes, Yadkin and Iredell counties. Its proximity to the Brushy Mountains gives Swan Creek a distinct, loamy soil consisting of schist, mica and other minerals as well as a microclimate that make Swan Creek wines unique. There are currently five vineyards located within the Swan Creek AVA: Raffaldini Vineyards in Ronda, N.C. and Laurel Gray Vineyards, Buck Shoals Vineyards, Shadow Springs Vineyard and Dobbins Creek Vineyards in Hamptonville, N.C. Several varietals of vinifera grapes are grown within the Swan Creek AVA, including many traditional and unique French and Italian varietals not widely available in the U.S.
posted by Thomas on 04/30/2008
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2006 Montepulciano Brings Home the Bronze in San Diego
April 28, 2008
Ronda, NC, April 28, 2008—Raffaldini Vineyards’ 2006 Montepulciano received a bronze medal at the San Diego International Competition which took place this month.
The 2006 Montepulciano from Raffaldini Vineyards competed against wines of all varietals, vintages and styles from all over the world at the San Diego Competition and was one of only two wines from North Carolina to medal in the competition.
The San Diego International Wine Competition is in its 25th year and is one of the oldest and most respected wine competitions in the United States. According to the SDIWC web site, it is also the largest wine competition in the U.S. conducted for the benefit of charity.
posted by Thomas on 04/28/2008
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Elkin Tribune - Raffaldini Vineyard offers promise for growth
March 31, 2008
www.elkintribune.com/articles/2008/03/31/news/news10.txt
posted by Thomas Salley on 03/31/2008
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Raffaldini Vineyards opens Tuscan Style Villa Tasting Room and Event Venue
March 28, 2008
Ronda, NC, March 31st, 2008—Raffaldini Vineyards, an Italian-style vineyard in the Yadkin Valley Region of North Carolina, opened its Tuscan-style Villa tasting room this weekend.
Villa Raffaldini is a 6,000 square foot tasting room and event venue inspired by villas in Mantua, Italy; home to the Raffaldini family, in the north-central region of Lombardy. Villa Raffaldini features traditional Italian art, architecture and dramatic views of the Blue Ridge and Brushy Mountains.
“We are honored to offer guests a taste of the Raffaldini's Italian home and heritage,” Beth Charles, tasting room manager for Raffaldini Vineyards, said. “Villa Raffaldini will be a destination for lovers of Italy and fine wines, as well as an everyday retreat for local residents.”
The Raffaldini’s and staff celebrated the grand opening of Villa Raffaldini with community leaders and wine club members and is now open to the general public.
The Raffaldini family traces its origins to the 14th century in Mantua, Italy; where for generations, they produced wine for personal consumption. The family chose the Yadkin Valley of North Carolina because the area closely resembles the winemaking region of Tuscany with rolling hills, rocky soil, gentle breezes and constant sun. Raffaldini Vineyards is located 10 minutes from the I-77—Hwy. 421 interchange. Visit www.raffaldini.com for detailed directions.
Nestled in the Yadkin Valley Region of North Carolina, family-owned Raffaldini Vineyards brings Old World charm to the Old North State. Known as “Chianti in the Carolinas” Raffaldini currently produces five single varietal wines and three blends: Vermentino, Pinot Grigio, Sangiovese, Sangiovese Riserva and Montepulciano. Raffaldini hosts public and private events throughout the year. Please visit our web site, www.raffaldini.com, call 336.835.9463 or email info@raffaldini.com for more information.
posted by Thomas Salley on 03/28/2008
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Raffaldini Vineyards Number One in South Eastern Winery Review
February 26, 2008
Raffaldini Vineyards was recently ranked number one among vineyards in North Carolina by the South Eastern Winery Review. According to SE Winery Review, Raffaldini “sets a benchmark for all wineries in North Carolina” and is a “must stop” for those who appreciate fine wines. Learn more at sewineryreview.com.
posted by Thomas Salley on 02/26/2008
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