Source  NCDA&CS, 9/7/10

WHAT:  Gov. Bev Perdue recently proclaimed September to be North Carolina Wine and Grape Appreciation Month, and the State Farmers Market is celebrating with Grape Day. The event will feature free wine tastings from five N.C. wineries, as well as samples of locally grown muscadine grapes, grape products and recipes. Grapes, wine and additional grape products also will be available for purchase.

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 10, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

WHERE:Farmers Building and Market Shoppes, State Farmers Market, 1201 Agriculture St.
Interstate 40, exit 297, Lake Wheeler Road

MORE INFO:  Grape Day is sponsored by the N.C. Wine & Grape Council, N.C. Muscadine Association and the State Farmers Market.

In 2008, North Carolina produced 5,600 tons of grapes, making it the ninth-largest producer in the country. With more than 90 wineries, the state is the nation’s seventh-largest wine producer. The annual economic impact of the North Carolina wine and grape industry is estimated to be $813 million.

For more information about Grape Day and other events at the State Farmers Market, go to www.ncagr.com/markets/facilities/markets/raleigh/index.htm.