Lehigh Valley Wine Trail's Annual Harvest Weekend event celebrates viticulture, winemaking and farming

As summer winds down, harvest season begins at the nine locally owned and operated wineries of the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail. It’s the time of year when all of spring and summer’s hard work pays off for these farmers. The grapes they have grown are removed from the vine and their juices extracted for fermenting into the 2016 vintage.

On Saturday, Sept. 10 and Sunday, Sept. 11, the wineries will celebrate the grape harvest with the Wine Trail’s annual Harvest Weekend event during which they will welcome wine lovers for a variety of different activities at each winery such as tastings, vineyard and winery tours, food and wine pairings, and live entertainment. They will also proudly promote the state’s “Pennsylvania Preferred” program by partnering with manufacturers of other Pennsylvania products to showcase their high level of quality. (See below for a list of activities.) Visit www.HarvestWeekendLVWT.com for complete event details.

Event hours are Saturday from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon - 5 p.m.  Harvest Weekend is a free event, however each winery sets its own fee policy for wine tastings, live music, and vineyard and winery tours. Please refer to each winery’s web site for details.

The Lehigh Valley Wine Trail is a nonprofit organization of wineries whose mission is to promote agri-tourism and to create a premier wine destination and grape growing region while promoting Pennsylvania wines from the region. For more information, visit www.LehighValleyWineTrail.com.

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HARVEST WEEKEND 2016 HIGHLIGHTS

Amore Vineyards, Nazareth - will pair cheese tortellini in a tomato and basil sauce with Cabaret Amore.

Big Creek Vineyard, Kresgeville - will showcase locally grown fruit from Heckman Orchards as well as will have a cheese selection for tasting.

Blue Mountain Vineyards, New Tripoli – now that fall is in swing, the winery will feature food and wine pairing ideas for the big football game. Culinary Experience Catering will offer homemade mac and cheese bites and mini meatball sliders paired with their 2015 White Merlot. On Saturday, Jordan White will perform live from 1-4 pm (no reservations needed; free). For Sunday Blues, the Sarah Ayers and James Supra Quartet will perform from 2-5 pm (reservations preferred; $5 admission). Guests are welcome to take a self-guided tour through the vineyard.

Clover Hill Vineyards, Breinigsville - Bleiler's Produce Patch will have a farm stand with a supply of farm fresh, organic produce for purchase. In addition, the winery will be celebrating its 31st anniversary and offering a 31% discount on all wines from September 8-11.

Franklin Hill Vineyards, Bangor – will welcome back fall with the return of its spiced pumpkin wine Potion X to the wine list, and will also be releasing a brand new cinnamon hard cider called Fire. Pumpkin-Rumtini's featuring Potion X and Social Still’s brand new Spiced Rum will be available to sample or to enjoy by the glass. Kendra’s Buttercup Bakery’s brand new food truck will sell their fantastic baked goods. Other local products such as honey and apple butter will be for sale as well. Tours will be offered at noon and 2 pm all weekend.

Galen Glen, Andreas - will feature “Taste the Grape, Taste the Wine.” Experience the flavors of their featured grape and follow it up with a taste of the finished wine. Walking tours will occur both days at 1 pm. Plus, locally sourced gourmet cheese, honey, and fruit plates will be available for purchase.

Pinnacle Ridge, Kutztown - will partner with La Cocina Mexicana from Kutztown. Sal will prepare chicken chimichangas with either salsa verde or salsa rojo and sour cream and guacamole. This savory delight will be paired with either the winery’s newly released Dry Rose (75% Chambourcin and 25% Cabernet Franc), or its slightly sweet Traminette.

Tolino Vineyards, Bangor - will highlight their partnership with Two Rivers Brewing Company of Easton, a farm-to-table restaurant, and their squash bisque, which will be paired with their 2015 Lilly wine. A seasonal beer from Two Rivers will be for sale by the pint and free samples of beer brewed at Tolino Vineyards will be available to taste. The Chris Cummings Jazz Trio will perform on Saturday, and The Moon Dogs will perform on Sunday.  

Vynecrest, Breinigsville - Stuffed to the Grills, a PA Preferred food truck, will be at Vynecrest 11 am – 5 pm Saturday and Sunday with their delicious menu including brie bites with raspberry sauce. In addition, the winery will have samples of pumpkin whoopie pies paired with their Autumn Gold wine, and also available for purchase.

LEHIGH VALLEY WINE TRAIL’S ANNUAL HARVEST WEEKEND EVENT CELEBRATES VITICULTURE, WINEMAKING, & FARMING

As summer winds down, harvest season begins at the nine locally owned and operated wineries of the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail. It’s the time of year when all of spring and summer’s hard work pays off for these farmers. The grapes they have grown are removed from the vine and their juices extracted for fermenting into the 2015 vintage.

On Saturday, Sept. 12 and Sunday, Sept. 13, the wineries will celebrate the grape harvest with the Wine Trail’s annual Harvest Weekend event during which they will welcome wine lovers for a variety of different activities at each winery such as tastings, vineyard and winery tours, food and wine pairings, and live entertainment. They will also proudly promote the state’s “Pennsylvania Preferred” program by partnering with manufacturers of other Pennsylvania products to showcase their high level of quality.  Visit www.HarvestWeekendLVWT.com for complete event details.

Event hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon - 5 p.m.  Harvest Weekend is a free event, however each winery sets its own wine tasting fee policy. Please refer to each winery’s web site for specifics.

The Lehigh Valley Wine Trail is a non-profit organization of wineries whose mission is to promote agri-tourism and to create a premier wine destination and grape growing region while promoting Pennsylvania wines from the region. For more information, visit www.LehighValleyWineTrail.com.

HARVEST WEEKEND 2015 HIGHLIGHTS

Amoré Vineyards & Winery, Nazareth - will pair beef barbecue and Cabaret Amore.

Big Creek Vineyard and Winery, Kresgeville - will showcase lemon squares and sugar cookie fruit tarts from MMM...  Cookies. Pair their treats with Moonlight White for the drier wine enthusiast, or Dulcinea for those who prefer something a little sweeter.

Blue Mountain Vineyards, New Tripoli – will partner with Sweet Finesse who will offer samples of their unique artisan chocolate treats to pair with Victoria’s Passion wine, as well as items for purchase. They are also partnering with Trixie’s Treats, award-winning baked goods and savory treats. On Saturday, they will have complimentary live music by Adam Motto from 1-5 pm. For Sunday Blues, award-winning musician Scott Marshall will perform live from 2-5 pm ($5 admission – advance reservations required). Guests should feel free to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the breathtaking views from the outdoor deck.

Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery, Breinigsville – sample its newly released 2014 Pinot Noir. They will have a farm stand selling vegetables from Bleiler’s Produce Patch, an organic farm, which is located only minutes from the winery in Breinigsville. This weekend is also their anniversary sale. As a thank you for 30 years of business they are offering customers a 30 percent discount on wine purchases.

Franklin Hill Vineyards, Bangor – on Saturday join head winemaker Bonnie Pysher for a Harvest Hike through the vineyard at 1 pm. Bonnie will talk about how they harvest from vine to wine. Then return to the winery and enjoy an outdoor tasting under their new pavilion and a complimentary tour of the facility.  In celebration of the harvest they’ll offer cranberry apple sangria and apple cider spritzers by the glass all weekend, and they’ll have local products such as Klein Farms apple butter, McCollians honey, and fall treats and baked goods from Kendra’s Bakery in Nazareth. 

Galen Glen Vineyard & Winery, Andreas – will offer a complimentary pairing of Late Harvest wine with Mycella blue cheese drizzled with apple caramel sauce. Janet Derkits, renowned cheese monger of Seasons in Bethlehem, will sell cheese plates to enjoy with a glass of wine. Walking tours of the vineyard will be offered each day at 1 and 3 pm.

Pinnacle Ridge, Kutztown - will feature Dry Riesling or Vidal Blanc with fresh, locally grown tomatoes. The tomatoes will be sliced and served with extra virgin olive oil, sea salt and fresh goat cheese from Kirchenberg Farms.

Tolino Vineyards, Bangor - will welcome wine lovers for wine tastings, wagon tours of the vineyard, and live entertainment by the Boiled Owls on Saturday and Tom Vicario on Sunday. They will also offer guests local apples from Scholl Orchards paired with delicious dips, accompanied with their wine.

Vynecrest Winery, Breinigsville - will partner with PA Preferred food truck Stuffed to the Grills both days from 11 am - 5 pm. They will serve up their tasty sandwiches plus their signature dish of Irish nachos - homemade potato chips covered in cheddar cheese sauce and topped with crumbled bacon and green onion, which can then be paired with Vynecrest’s Autumn Gold wine. Vynecrest will also offer free tours of the vineyard and wine cellar each day at 1 pm.

VINEYARD TOURS, WINE TASTINGS, AND PA PREFERRED PARTNERS COMBINE FOR ANNUAL HARVEST WEEKEND EVENT

Harvest season is when all of the spring and summer’s hard work pays off for a winery. The grapes they have grown this spring and summer are removed from the vine and their juices extracted for fermenting into the 2014 vintage to be unveiled later this fall.

On Saturday, Sept. 13 and Sunday, Sept. 14, the nine winery members of the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail will celebrate the grape harvest with its annual Harvest Weekend event during which they will welcome wine lovers for tastings, vineyard and winery tours, food and wine pairings, and live entertainment.

The wineries will also proudly promote the state’s “Pennsylvania Preferred” program by partnering with manufacturers of other Pennsylvania products to showcase their high level of quality. Event hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon - 5 p.m.  Harvest Weekend is a free event, however each winery sets its own wine tasting fee policy. Please refer to each winery’s web site for details.

The Lehigh Valley Wine Trail is a non-profit organization of wineries whose mission is to promote agri-tourism and to create a premier wine destination and grape growing region while promoting Pennsylvania wines from the region. For more information on the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail, visit www.LehighValleyWineTrail.com.



HARVEST WEEKEND 2014 HIGHLIGHTS

Amoré Vineyards & Winery, Nazareth - The winery will pair Cabaret Amore with eggplant Parmesan.

Big Creek Vineyard and Winery, Kresgeville - Big Creek will showcase fresh fruit from its neighbors at Heckman Orchard along with a sampling of its owner’s favorite cheeses.

Blue Mountain Vineyards, New Tripoli – Blue Mountain will partner on Saturday and Sunday with Sweet Finesse, which will offer samples of their unique and artistic handmade chocolate treats and baked goods, as well as items for purchase. Also on Saturday, they will have complimentary live entertainment by Adam Motto from 1 - 4 pm. For Sunday Blues, the acoustic duo Cheek 2 Cheek will perform from 2 - 5 pm ($5 admission). During their visit, guests may take a self-guided walking tour of the vineyard.

Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery, Breinigsville – The winery is proud to celebrate 29 years in business. As a thank you for your continued support the owners will extend a 29 percent discount on all wines for 29 years of business at all Clover Hill locations.

Franklin Hill Vineyards, Bangor – Franklin Hill Vineyards will feature a Sangria Bar with a variety of their favorite sangrias from their Friday night Happy Hours. They will also have light snacks and cheese plates for sale as well as tours at noon and 2 pm.

Galen Glen Vineyard & Winery, Andreas – Celebrate the beauty and bounty of the season. On Saturday the Happy Pita food truck will stop by. On Sunday the Love Hot Dog Co. team will offer their gourmet sausages and dogs, fantastic toppings and lemonade. Plan to purchase a snack to enjoy with a glass of wine while drinking in the spectacular autumn views.

September Vineyard Tours: join the winery’s owners for a complimentary, enlightening walking tour of the vineyard and wine cellar. Tours depart from the tasting room at noon. Please wear sturdy footwear. No reservations required. Tours are held weather permitting.

Pinnacle Ridge, Kutztown - The winery will be featuring its 2013 Traminette paired with a local bratwurst with apple cranberry chutney. They will also feature the popular 2013 Quaff with a toasted baguette, local cheese and tomato herb bruschetta topping.

Tolino Vineyards, Bangor - The winery will have live music by Tom Vicario on Saturday from 1 - 4 pm and live music by Joe Benkovic on Sunday from 1 – 4 pm. They will offer vineyard tours at 2 and 4 pm both days. Food pairing will feature local produce from the Easton Farmers Market. They will also pair ginger gold apples with Chardonnay and various soft cheeses from Iron Stone Creamery will be paired with Pinot Grigio and Chambourcin.

Vynecrest Winery, Breinigsville - Vynecrest Winery will pair their newly released estate wine, Late Harvest Vidal, with slices of banana roll with cream cheese icing from Hereford Country Store, a fellow Macungie Farmers Market vendor - a Buy Fresh Buy Local market. There will be winemaker tours of the vineyard and wine cellars both Saturday and Sunday at noon, which are open to the public and free of charge.

Blues in the Barn to rock Pinnacle Ridge this weekend

Blues in the Barn Weekend

Pinnacle Ridge Winery will host the annual Blues in the Barn Weekend on Saturday, September 6 and Sunday, September 7. On Saturday, beginning at noon, The James Supra Blues Band will take the stage to kick off the weekend led by the best harmonica player in the Lehigh Valley. For more information on the James Supra Blues Band and to hear some of their tracks, check out their website  www.jamessuprabluesband.com/

Later that day, Dugan Thomas will take the stage with their blues/jam band style. So, come on out and enjoy some of the Valley's best live performers and some award-winning loacl wines! For more information on Dugan Thomas and some of their tracks, check out their website  www.mikedugan.com/dugan-thomas-2/

On Sunday, we will pick right up where we left off with The BC Combo. This group of Lehigh Valley legends will bring years of performance experience and their signature blend of blues styles to our stage in the barn from 2-5 pm. We will also feature slow-cooked full pigs, compliments of Windy Acres BBQ from nearby Fleetwood, PA all weekend long. Parking will be limited, but there is additional parking available on Jay Ln. and alongside Old Rt. 22.

**Please Note: We have changed some of our policies for Blues in the Barn. This year, the Tasting Room will operate normal hours and with our normal $5 refundable tasting fee. However, for those wishing to stay and enjoy some wine on the property and check out the bands, we will have a $5 cover fee that will include a souvenir Blues in the Barn glass that will serve as your ticket to the event.

Case Club Members who show their Case Club Membership Card will have the $5 fee waived and receive a complimentary Blues in the Barn glass. Case Club Members are also invited to welcome guests to this special event weekend. *Limit four glasses for the Blues in the Barn Event*

New wine release

This month we will be transitioning into some new vintages of some of your favorite wines. We will be saying good-bye to the 2012 Naked Chardonnay and introducing the 2013 Naked Chardonnay this week. The 2013 is an excellent vintage and is displaying ample fruit notes.

Open House Concert Series

We are pleased to announce that we will be hosting Serene Green on Saturday, September 20. The group will bring the mix of folk and bluegrass tunes to the barn from 2-5 pm. Come out and enjoy the show with some award-winning local wines. No cover charge. Call for details (610) 756-4481.

Harvest Weekend – The Butcher, The Baker and The Winemaker
September 13 & 14

When fall rolls around, it’s time to kick off harvest season. The members of the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail will celebrate with their annual Harvest Weekend event. The nine wineries will welcome wine lovers for tastings, as well as food and wine pairings.

The wineries will also proudly promote the state’s PA Preferred program by partnering with producers of other Pennsylvania products to showcase their high level of quality. At Pinnacle Ridge, we will be featuring our 2013 Traminette paired with a local bratwurst smothered our Apple Cranberry Chutney. We will also be featuring our always popular 2013 Quaff with a toasted baguette, local cheese and our Tomato Herb Bruschetta topping.

Summer white wine sale continues at Tolino; custom wine bottle labels now available

Celebrate Labor Day Weekend with local wine and our new patriotic sangria recipe:

Red, White & Blue Sangria  
2 bottles of Tolino Vineyards 2011 Chardonnay
½ lb of strawberries
1 sliced pear
1 sliced plum
2 oz of triple sec
2 oz of vanilla vodka
24 ounces sparkling water
¼ cup of sugar

Harvest Weekend - September 13 and 14
Visit us at the winery on Saturday, September 13 from 10 am - 5 pm and Sunday, September 14 from noon - 5 pm to celebrate the annual Lehigh Valley Wine Trail's Harvest Weekend event. We welcome wine lovers for tastings, vineyard tours, food and wine pairings, and live entertainment. We will also  promote the state's Pennsylvania Preferred program by partnering with producers of other Pennsylvania products to showcase their high level of quality.

Custom Wine Bottle Labels
We now offer custom labels. Use our graphics, or customize it with your own photo. We can print almost anything. Call us or email mandy@tolinovineyards.com for more details.

Summer White Sale Continues
Save on all 2010 and 2011 White and Rosé wines. Purchase 1 bottle for 15% off, 6 bottles for 25% off, and a case is 50% off. What a great deal on delicious wine that is perfect for end of summer sipping.

Taste of the Trail video
It seems we have a YouTube star on staff at Tolino Vineyards. Nope, it's not the water-skiing squirrel, or the laughing baby. Its the owner, Carl, in the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail's Taste of the Trail video. Check it out here and learn about how we got started.

Easton Farmers' Market Weyerbacher Wednesdays
It is so much fun and so delicious to participate in Weyerbacher Wednesday at the Easton Farmers' Market. We are at the market from 4 - 8 pm through September in Centre Square. We love being a part of the local food movement. Hope to see you next week.

Save the date for Blue Mountain's annual Picking Party and Grape Stomp event

News from the Vineyard

August is a very busy month in the vineyard. We have been hard at work spraying, tying and leaf pulling the vines. Due to the harsh winter and unusually cool spring our vines have suffered. In the spring we planted new vines for future harvests to replace ones that didn't survive the winter. There will definitely be less crop this year, but since there is less crop the quality should be very good.  Hopefully we will have very little crop loss from birds since our vines are netted. Wish us luck!

Save the Date

Seven Springs Wine and Food Festival
August 23 & 24
Seven Springs Mountain Resort

Wine Trail Event

Harvest Weekend
September 13 and 14
The nine wineries will welcome wine lovers for tastings, vineyard and winery tours, food and wine pairings, and live entertainment.

Gettysburg Wine and Music Festival
September 6 and 7
Gettysburg, Pa.

Small Business Seminar and Winery Tour
August 26 -10 am - 3:30 pm

Please join us for an interactive seminar by Constant Contact where key concepts of mobile marketing, email marketing and social media marketing are discussed. Plus enjoy a tour of the winery and vineyards. Call for details - 610-298-3068.

Picking Party and Grape Stomp
Tentative Dates - September 13 and 14

Pick grapes and stomp them like Lucy! We offer a complimentary barbecue lunch, wine tasting, and a lot of fun. Due to our challenges this year our picking dates are tentative.  We are sorry that we can't be more definite. Call the winery for a reservation and more details - 610-298-3068.

Sangria Sundays

August
24    Adam Motto
31    Connie Edinger and Tommy Marchak

Fall Foliage Sundays

September
 7    Sarah Ayers
14    Mike Dugan/Cheek2Cheek
21    Billy Patrick
28    Jake Kalegis and Mike Rauscher's Dynamic Duo

Visit us at http://bluemountainwine.com/events

September events at Galen Glen Winery

Tractor and Wagon Tours of the Vineyard and Cellar

Saturday & Sunday, September 14 & 15
Sunday, September 22
Sunday, October 6

Enjoy a tractor and wagon tour of the vineyard on each of the above dates listed. No reservations are required. Tours are weather permitting and depart the tasting room at 1, 2, 3, and 4 p.m. As you ride through the vineyard to the cellar you will learn about the grapes, how we harvest, then once in the cellar, how your wine is created and goes from vine to bottle. You might even get a glimpse of our Hollywood connection. Be sure to ask Galen about it during the tour.

Our final walking tour of the vineyard will take place on Sunday, October 13. Walking tours are complimentary and don't require reservations. Walking tours give a more intimate view of the vineyard and time to speak with the winemaker. This tour will be given weather permitting and we ask that you wear sturdy foot gear.

Smoky Mutts - Lehigh Valley Wine Trail's Harvest Weekend - the Butcher, the Baker, the Winemaker 

Authentic Southern BBQ available for purchase on Saturday, September 14 and Sunday, September 15 from  noon - 5 p.m.

Pitt Boss Wes and his crew from Smoky Mutts return with their fantastic, authentic southern BBQ and fixins. You don't want to miss this. Plan to stop by the winery and purchase a glass of wine to enjoy with lunch or an early dinner. In the past, Wes has served everything from pulled pork, ribs, brisket, chicken and lamb. Come see what this weekend's menu features. Plan also to enjoy the cornbread and cole-slaw, more Galen Glen staff favorites.

Love Hot Dog Company & The Lemonade Brothers

Sunday, September 22 and Sunday, October 13, from noon - 5 p.m.

Jason makes his monthly pilgrimage to the mountains bringing his fantastic gourmet sausages and dogs. If you haven't come to the winery when Love Hot Dog Company is there, you don't know what you are missing. Jason serves everything from 100% beef to wild-game sausages and has the best home-made toppings. Be sure to ask about bacon jam. It's a Galen Glen staff favorite. All items are available for purchase while supplies last, come early so you won't miss out. Plan your visit now; you don't even need to pack a picnic on these dates!

Medals, Medals, Medals

Many of you may have seen the articles in the paper, spots on TV, and our Facebook and Twitter updates. Galen Glen has received many medals in the past month or so.

First there was the Riesling winning a double-gold and the Stone Cellar Riesling winning a Gold at Riverside. In addition we also received silver and bronze on the other wines entered. Then the Winter Mountain White won a Gold medal in the Finger Lakes competition. Again everyone we entered received either a gold, silver or bronze medal.

Last month Sarah received two silver medals for our Stone Cellar Chambourcin and Stone Cellar Cabernet Franc at the 2013 Women of Wine Competition in California. Later this month the Stone Cellar Gruner Veltliner will be judged at the Six-Nations Wine Competition in Australia. This is an invitation-only competition where a mere 100 wines from the US are selected. We are honored that one of them is ours. The results from that competition will not be announced until October.

Lehigh Valley Wine Trail announces Harvest Weekend plans

The next Lehigh Valley Wine Trail event is just a few short weeks away. Harvest Weekend takes place September 14 & 15 at all eight of our member wineries. Each one has something different planned for you to enjoy. This is a free event but some wineries charge for wine tastings. Be sure to check each winery's web site for their wine tasting policy before heading out. 

Amore - will pair chicken Caesar wraps with Cayuga White.

Big Creek - The winery’s owner recently attended a very informative cheese and wine pairing demonstration using their current offerings and moderated by Tenaya Darlington (a.k.a. Madame Fromage) author of “The Di Bruno Bros. House of Cheese: A Guide to Wedges, Recipes, and Pairings” and hosted by Kinsley’s Shoprite of Brodheadsville. Inspired by the event, they will showcase their favorite pairings of Big Creek wine and BellaVitano cheese.

Blue Mountain - will partner on Saturday and Sunday with Crystal Spring Farm.  A representative from Crystal Spring Farm will offer samples of their delicious ice cream and offer hand-dipped ice cream for purchase.  Also, on Saturday they will have complimentary live entertainment from 1-4 p.m.

They will also partner with Louie’s Sauces on Sunday only.  Louie himself will be cooking up something special with his delicious sauces.  They will have live entertainment provided by Billy Patrick on Sunday from 2- 5 p.m.; admission is $5. A self-guided tour of the vineyards will be offered both days.

Clover Hill - will partner with Klein’s Creamery of Easton and offer samples of a few of their delicious cheeses paired with Clover Hill wines. Also, for the third consecutive year they will have samples of pretzels from Unique Pretzel Bakery, Inc., of Reading. 

In addition, visit Clover Hill September 12, 13, 14 or 15 to take advantage of the Anniversary Sale. During these four days Clover Hill will say thank you for your dedication to Clover Hill wines and offer a 28% discount on your wine purchase for its 28 years of business as a winery. This is the best time ever to stock your wine cellar with Clover Hill wine. 

Franklin Hill - This year they will feature "Cruisin Cuisine by Christine." Christine will offer fried ravioli amongst other tasty treats for purchase, and several vendors will be set up to satisfy your urge to splurge and shop. They will offer walking tours of the vineyard and winery at noon and 2 p.m., where you'll learn everything you ever wanted to know from vine to vin and more. They will provide complimentary tastings and offer wine by the glass.  Please contact the winery for groups over 10 to make a reservation.

Galen Glen

Pit Boss Wes, owner of Smoky Mutts Barbeque, will be selling authentic southern style BBQ. The winery’s mascot, Clemens the dog, gives Wes, his wife Lan, and all their mouth wateringly tender BBQ cuisine two paws up.  http://www.smokymutts.com/

Tractor and Wagon Tours will be offered departing at 1, 2, 3 and 4 p.m. through the vineyards and down to the wine cellar. Tours are weather permitting and free.

Pinnacle Ridge - will be celebrating Harvest Weekend with our annual "Blues in the Barn."  This year on Saturday we will feature Mike Dugan and the Blues Mission from noon - 3 p.m. and The James Supra Blues Band from 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. On Sunday the Sarah Ayers Band will perform from 2 - 5 p.m.  Both days they will have barbecue prepared by Maison Blanc. Wine by the glass or bottle will be available along with soda and water. Come early to get a seat.

Vynecrest - will partner with Pappy’s Orchard of Coopersburg, a fellow PA Preferred vendor from Macungie Farmers Market and pair their Gala apples with a Sugar ‘n Spice Caramel Apple Dip mix (locally made and sold at the winery) with their semi-sweet Riesling. Riesling is their Wine of the Month for September and priced at 10% off. They will offer free Winemaker Tours of the vineyard and wine cellar Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m.

Jam at Blues in the Barn this weekend at Pinnacle Ridge

2012 BLUES IN THE BARN

Saturday, September 8 - noon - 7 p.m.
Sunday, September 9 - noon - 7 p.m.

Pinnacle Ridge is celebrating the harvest weekend with a bang! Live music, good eats, great vibes, and wonderful people. Our annual Blues in the Barn event is finally here. Our favorite chef, Ben Underwood, will offer some of his famous savory pulled pork sandwiches for sale as well as other delicious munchies. Wine will be available for purchase both by the bottle and the glass.

On Saturday, The Wallace Brothers will kick off the event at noon and play until 3 p.m.  We had the pleasure of jamming with The Wallace Brothers in July and can't wait to hear their set list this month. The Mighty Manatees will take the stage from 3:30 -7 p.m. We will be staying open later than usual to enjoy the festivities.

We are excited for the return of the James Supra Blues Band who will be performing on Sunday.  We had a blast the first time they played at Pinnacle Ridge back in June and can't wait for this Sunday's rockin' performance. We also welcome the Kelchner Brothers back who have performed at previous Blues in the Barn events.

Summer is nearing an end which also means an end to our summer concert series. We thank all who have joined us the past two months and encourage those who have missed the last shows to swing in for the final performance on Saturday, October 6 from 2 - 5 p.m. with Jack Murray and the Midnight Creeps.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jack-Murray-the-Midnight-Creeps

HARVEST 2012 - HERE WE GO AGAIN!

Harvest commenced on Thursday, August 30, much earlier than normal. This is only the second time that we have picked fruit in August in our 20-year harvest history (the other year was 2010). We started with Cayuga for our Blanc de Blanc sparkling wine and we picked Pinot Noir for our Brut Rose on Friday, August 31.

The early harvest was caused by an early bud break in April caused by warm weather in March and April, and also by continued warm weather in June and July (remember those beastly hot days in early July?).  All of this heat promotes the early ripening of the grapes resulting in an early harvest. Early harvests generally provide riper fruit than later harvests with riper flavors, lower acids and higher sugars, with higher alcohol in the finished wine. The wines tend to be softer, fatter and fuller than cooler years. We especially like the red wines from these warmer, earlier harvests (think 2010, 2007 and 2001).

We are set up for a beautiful harvest and now our main concern is weather and pests, most notably birds.  Hurricanes are the single biggest weather concerns. The remnants of Isaac are scheduled to slide through the area in early September so we'll see what that brings and, as of right now, no other serious threats are in the forecast. Keep your fingers crossed, and with a little luck we'll have another fabulous vintage like 2010 or 2007.

Stomp grapes like Lucy at Blue Mountain Vineyards

Calling all grape pickers and stompers!

The tentative dates for the annual Blue Mountain Vineyards picking parties are September 22, 23, 29 and 30.

We'll start the day promptly at 9 a.m. with danish and coffee inside the winery. After you're fueled up, you'll go outside and pick grapes for a few hours. To thank you for all your hard work we invite you to stay for a BBQ style lunch on the deck and the grape stomp!

Please wear comfortable clothing and bring gloves. Adults ages 21 and older only (no exceptions). Call or email us to make your reservation.

September Events

• 9/9 - Large Flowerheads
• 9/16 - Billy Patrick
• 9/23 - Scott Marshall and The Hillbilly Souls
• 9/30 - Jake Kaligis and Mike Rauscher's Dynamic Duo
• 9/8 - Lehigh Valley Wine Trail's Harvest Weekend - Stop by for a self-guided vineyard tour, music by Rob from 1:30-4:30 p.m. and enjoy homemade kiffles by BabaNonna!
• 9/9 - Lehigh Valley Wine Trail's Harvest Weekend - Stop by for a self-guided vineyard tour and enjoy homemade kiffles by BabaNonna!
• 9/15 - Wayne County Wine & Cheese Festival - Wayne County Fairgrounds 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.upstatewinecountry.com

Visit us at these farmers markets

• Bala Cynwyd - Thursdays 2:30 PM - 6:30 PM
• Ottsville - Fridays 4 PM - 8 PM
• Rittenhouse - Saturdays 9 AM - 3 PM
• Saucon Valley - Sundays 9 AM - 1 PM
• Emmaus - Sundays 10 AM - 2 PM

Vineyard Tours, Wine Tastings and PA Preferred Partners Highlight Our Annual Harvest Weekend Celebration

On Saturday, Sept. 8 and Sunday, Sept. 9, the members of the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail will celebrate the grape harvest with its annual Harvest Weekend event. The eight wineries will welcome wine lovers for tastings, vineyard and winery tours, food and wine pairings, and live entertainment.

The wineries will also proudly promote the state’s “Pennsylvania Preferred” program by partnering with manufacturers of other Pennsylvania products to showcase their high level of quality. Event hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon - 5 p.m.

*Please note: Harvest Weekend is a free event; however, each winery sets its own wine tasting fee policy. Please refer to the Wine Trail’s web site or each winery’s web site for details.

The Lehigh Valley Wine Trail is a non-profit organization of wineries whose mission is to promote agri-tourism and to create a premier wine destination and grape growing region while promoting Pennsylvania wines from the region.

For more information on the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail, visit www.LehighValleyWineTrail.com.

HARVEST WEEKEND HIGHLIGHTS

Amoré Vineyards & Winery, Nazareth - Will pair asiago and risotto bites with Cabaret Amore as well as assorted quiche with Chardonnay. In addition, their fall hardy mums and fresh home grown fruits and vegetables will be available at the roadside market as well as sweet corn, tomatoes, melons and peaches.

Big Creek Vineyard and Winery, Kresgeville - Will offer fresh, tree-ripened fruit from nearby Heckman Orchards.

Blue Mountain Vineyards, New Tripoli – On Saturday enjoy free live music from 1-4 p.m. and take a self-guided vineyard tour. On Sunday, take a self-guided vineyard tour, and join them for Sunday Blues from 2-5 p.m. ($5 admission) with The Large Flowerheads. Reservations are recommended for Sunday Blues.

Both days, try samples of kiffles and rolls including walnut, raspberry, apricot, Nutella, peanut butter and chocolate, and strawberry and chocolate. The samples of rolls will be walnut, apricot, and poppy seed.

Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery, Breinigsville – Will partner with Unique Pretzel Bakery, Inc., of Reading. Just as the winery is a family-owned and operated business, Unique Pretzel Bakery is family owned since the late 1800’s. Since Unique Pretzel Bakery’s last visit to Clover Hill they have grown and are producing new products that they will be sharing. Pair a Unique chocolate covered pretzel with a glass of Clover Hill Turtle Rock Red. 

Franklin Hill Vineyards, Bangor – Will celebrate the beauty of their rolling countryside and the delectable fruits of their labors along with local favorites McCollian’s Pure Honey, Kachline's apples, Klein’s cheese and an array of snacks and wine. Take a leisurely tour of the winery at noon and 2 p.m., or kick back on the deck or picnic area and enjoy the sounds of Robert Michaels as he serenades guests.

Galen Glen Vineyard & Winery, Andreas – Will feature tractor and wagon tours of the vineyard and cellar, departing each day at 1, 2, 3, & 4 p.m. (weather permitting).  Enjoy lunch or a snack from Love Hot Dog Co (http://lovehotdogco.com) who will be selling gourmet sausages, dogs and chocolate-covered cheesecake on a stick from their mobile restaurant.

Pinnacle Ridge, Kutztown - Will hold its annual Blues in the Barn event. On Saturday, the Wallace Brothers Band will perform at 12:30 pm and the Mighty Manatees from Montgomery County will take the stage at 4 p.m.  On Sunday, the James Supra Blues Band entertains at 1 p.m., with the Kelchner Brothers taking the stage at 4:30 p.m.  Chef Ben will have pulled pork sandwiches and other goodies available for sale.

Vynecrest Winery, Breinigsville - Has invited their fellow PA Preferred Macungie Farmers Market vendors to set up booths in the winery’s parking lot both days from noon to 4 p.m. They include Bleiler's Produce Patch (organic produce), Mrs. McNabb’s Baked Beans (beans, macaroni salad, pierogies), and Hereford Country Store (quiches, cakes).

The winery will offer samples of Hereford Country Store’s lemon poppy seed pound cake paired with Blueberry Wine. Art’s Acoustic Oldies will be playing live in the Vyneskeller from 1:30-4:30 p.m. on Saturday. Go on a guided Winemaker’s Tour at 1 p.m. both days. Tours are open to the public and free of charge.

Plan ahead for three fall Wine Trail events

If you didn't make it to last weekend's Wine on the Mountain event at Penn's Peak in Jim Thorpe, don't worry. There are still three more opportunities this fall to participate in a Lehigh Valley Wine Trail event. Here's a quick overview. Be sure to check our web site for more event details when each event gets closer.

Harvest Weekend - The Butcher, The Baker and The Winemaker
September 8 and 9

When fall rolls around, it’s time to celebrate the kick-off of harvest season! At this event, the wineries proudly promote the state’s Pennsylvania Preferred program by partnering with manufacturers of other Pennsylvania products to showcase their high level of quality. Wine pairings, vineyard tours, food, music and other special activities are featured.

Chambourcin Weekend
October 20 and 21

Taking place after the harvest is over, this event celebrates the official wine grape of the Lehigh Valley, the Chambourcin. This versatile wine is available in Nouveau, Rose, Semi-Sweet, Sweet, Dry Barrel Aged, Sparkling, and Port.

As you explore the Lehigh Valley Wine Trail during this event, be sure to taste each winery’s Chambourcin and see how the flavors vary within the same region. Or better yet, buy a bottle of each to take home with you a conduct a formal tasting of your own.

Nouveau Weekend
November 17 and 18

This is the earliest chance to sample the first vintages of the new harvest. Nouveau wines are light, fruity and semi-dry to dry red wines. It’s also a great opportunity to purchase wines for the upcoming holiday season to give as gifts or to drink at dinner. March Madness passports also go on sale this weekend, so get them before they sell out.

Details on Harvest Weekend announced

On Saturday, Sept. 10 and Sunday, Sept. 11, the eight wineries of the LehighValley Wine Trail in eastern Pennsylvania will celebrate the start of harvest season with a special event. Harvest Weekend will welcome wine lovers for tastings, vineyard and winery tours, food and wine pairings, and live entertainment.

The wineries will also proudly promote the state’s “Pennsylvania Preferred” program by partnering with manufacturers of other Pennsylvania products to showcase their high level of quality. Event hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon - 5 p.m.

The Lehigh Valley Wine Trail is a non-profit organization of wineries whose mission is to promote agri-tourism and to create a premier wine destination and grape growing region while promoting Pennsylvania wines from the region.

Amoré Vineyards & Winery, Nazareth - Amore will be serving bourbon chicken, assorted breads and dipping oils, along with a selection of cheeses from Goot Essa Farms. They will also feature a new wine, Cabaret Amore.

Big Creek Vineyard and Winery, Kresgeville - Harvest Weekend at Big Creek traditionally means freshly picked, tree-ripened apples from their friends at nearby Heckman Orchard along with local artisan cheeses.

Blue Mountain Vineyards, New Tripoli - Stroll through the vineyard and witness the last few days before the grapes of 2011 begin the process of becoming wine on a self-guided vineyard tour. Back by popular demand, sample the products of Tait Farms that are grown and produced in Pa. Di Bruno Brothers from South Philly will be sampling some of their incredible cheeses that have kept them in business for over 70 years. The winery will be releasing its 2008 Merlot, which was an excellent vintage. On Sunday, join them for Sangria Sundays with Scott Marshall & The Hillbilly Souls on the deck ($5 admission).

Clover Hill Vineyards & Winery, Breinigsville - During this harvest celebration, Clover Hill will partner with Unique Pretzel Bakery, Inc. of Reading, Pa. Like Clover Hill, Unique Pretzels is a family-owned business that has grown for six generations. The family from Unique Pretzel Bakery will be on site to sample and sell their scrumptious pretzels. There is nothing tastier than a Unique chocolate covered pretzel paired with a glass of Turtle Rock Red.

Franklin Hill Vineyards, Bangor - invites guest to help them celebrate the harvest with walks through the vineyard and tours of the winery. There will be local cheeses by Klein's Farm, cider and apples for sale, and light snacks for purchase. Try a glass of apple wine.

Galen Glen Vineyard & Winery, Andreas - Free tractor and wagon tours will depart on the hour from 1 - 4 p.m. Tours travel through the heart of the vineyard, down the hillside to the wine cellar in the little glen and back up the hill to the tasting room. Sinfully scrumptious European desserts by famed baker Marlis will be available to purchase with a glass of wine. Renowned local wild life artist Dave Hughes will also have his art on display. 

Pinnacle Ridge, Kutztown - Pinnacle Ridge will be celebrating the beginning of the 2011harvest with live music all weekend. On Saturday, the Wallace Brothers will play their mix of Blues and Country from 1- 5 p.m. On Sunday, the day of music starts at 1:30 p.m. with the Kelchner Brothers. Jacob, 15, is an excellent guitar player while younger brother, Janson, 11, plays harmonica and sings. The Wallace Brothers will be back on Sunday from 3 - 6 p.m. There will be wine by the bottle or glass for purchase all weekend. The food vendor for the weekend is Jack Sinnitz and his friendly Heaven on a Bun crew.

Vynecrest Winery, Breinigsville - Vynecrest has asked fellow vendors from both SteelStacks and Macungie farmers markets, as well as Eagle Point Farm Market, to join them from 1:30 - 4:30 p.m. both days to celebrate PA Preferred and Buy Fresh Buy Local Lehigh Valley. There will be fresh produce available for sale from Bleiler's Fresh Produce Patch (locally grown, pesticide free), delicious baked goods from Lisa Morton of Hereford Country Store, and mums for sale from Eagle Point Farm Market. In addition Vynecrest will be pairing samples of its Blueberry wine with Lisa's lemon poppy seed pound cake. On Saturday at 1 p.m., will be the final winemaker's tour of the season with an emphasis on the upcoming harvest ($5 per person). Live music will entertain in the Vyneskeller Wine Bar from 1 - 4:30 p.m. by Art's Acoustic Oldies (no charge).