Being the local food and horticulture agent for Rowan County, I am privileged to learn about new things happening within the county. Without a doubt, I can say that there are some exciting things about to happen in our county, and many of those things are concerning local farms and food.

A few weeks ago, I mentioned the Poinsettia and Winery Tour being conducted by the Rowan County Chamber of Commerce. If you didn’t get to register, I regret to tell you that the tour is full.

Part of the tour features a local farm, Morgan Ridge Vineyards. And even though it is a vineyard, it is still considered a farm. Morgan Ridge grows vinifera and French-American type grapes, such as chardonnay, merlot, chambourcin on 7 acres and hosts numerous events and weddings.

Morgan Ridge Vineyards has worked with Cooperative Extension on numerous projects. They have even participated on our advisory council, which allowed me to learn about their latest endeavor.

If you have recently visited the Historic Gold Hill Village, you may have noticed a new tenant. Morgan Ridge Vineyards has opened a new brewhouse and winery location in Historic Gold Hill. The setting is right on the main strip, specifically at 834 Saint Stephens Church Road.

The new shop is in a beautiful wood cabin and is the perfect place to try the locally brewed beers and wine. The beautiful cabin behind the store is also available for a bed and dinner reservation.

So, if you missed out on the Poinsettia and Winery Tour, you should stop in this Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. for their grand opening and to ride the free historic trolley back and forth through the historic Gold Hill Village.

Take some time to learn about the history and local growers within our beautiful county.

If would like more information on local farms within the county, contact your local Cooperative Extension agent, Danelle Cutting, at 704-216-8970.