After getting an early start on our drive north to The Outer Banks, later than planned because of a darn exercise class breaking out, we decided to break up the drive with another Harvest Host stop in Pikeville, NC. We called A Secret Garden Winery and spoke to Linda, the owner, who saved a spot for us and the added bonus of electricity…no sweaty sheets tonight!
When we arrived, Linda met us and gave us a full tour of the vineyard, as well as the full process of making the wine. She took up this “little hobby” over 15 years ago and sells only out of her retail store, now she only gives tours and opens with reservations. When we called to tell her we were running late because we were stopping for lunch, she asked if “we wanted meatloaf sandwiches,” as that’s what they had for dinner last night. Her wine selection and wonderful hospitality was truly a pleasure. She won’t compete with Silver Oak for process or quality but I’m sure we couldn’t get a leftover dinner offer in Napa either!
Our evening and overnight stay may not have been quite as pleasant, the moment we climbed into Little Al the skies open up and didn’t stop raining until 5 in the morning. It’s usually fun to sleep in the rain but always worrying about leaks (none), tornadoes (none), getting stuck in the field (did not) and spider monkeys (one)…made the night last f o r e v e r.
On to The Outer Banks…
One last workout, need a photographer?
Get ready Little Al, it’s gonna be a frog-strangler.
We’re here.
Bonus. After Joanie spoke to Linda on the way, we got to hear 100 versus of “Linda on my mind”.
Linda showing us a picture of Linda on the bottle.
Checking out the vineyard.
Yes, I’ll try some.
Pretty good.
The process.
Tanks for coming.
Sorry.
Bottling.
Let’s drink.
The koi pond, they are probably swimming in the vineyard after the rain.
Leaving, let’s eat breakfast.
Capitol Cafe in Fremont, NC.
McGaffs On The Fly 