Department of Travel
Ky. Wineries Are Fine in the Summer Time

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Wineries get into full swing as summer progresses and they host concerts, theater productions, arts fairs and other entertainment in the stunning natural surroundings of carefully tended vineyards. For a laid back afternoon or evening of good food, sumptuous wines from a wide variety of Kentucky-grown grapes and diversion, pay a visit to a winery anywhere in Kentucky and you’ll be sure to head for another. Here are just a few examples of vineyard-hosted events around the state in coming weeks with many more listed at www.KentuckyWine.com and www.KentuckyProud.com at the product listing.

Smith-Berry Vineyard and Winery, New Castle
From now through the beginning of October, Smith-Berry Vineyard will host an every-other-Saturday series of dinners and concerts at their Henry County vineyard just off I-71. On July 25, catch featured performers Nervous Melvin and the Mistakes, a pop/rock group specializing in danceable classics from the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, U2, the Ramones and REM, among others. Munch on a rib eye sandwich or grilled marinated chicken breast along with other delectable items. Dinner is served from 6 – 7 p.m. and the music begins at 6:30. For ticket prices, gallery schedule and more information, visit www.smithberrywinery.net.

Chrisman Mill Vineyard, Nicholasville
Visit Chrisman Mill to take in the vineyard’s first Murder Mystery Dinner next month. Bluegrass Mystery Theatre will be there on Aug. 1 from 7 – 9 p.m. to perform “Murder on the Rebound.”  Tickets include a four course dinner and the show. Seating is limited so get your tickets soon. Chrisman Mill also serves a traditional Tuscan bill of fare generally every third Friday through October and brunches every Saturday. Visit www.chrismanmill.com for the calendar of events, tickets and more info.

Ruby Moon Vineyard & Winery, Henderson
On Saturday Sept. 12, stroll the Ruby Moon Vineyard grounds while viewing fine art displayed by award-winning area artists. The entertainment also includes live music and the chance to purchase gourmet cheeses like Havarti, tomato basil cheddar and garlic paprika Jack, along with other foods and wine-related items. Sample elderberry, cherry, strawberry and many other special wines. For wines served, more information and directions from all points, check www.rubymoonwinery.com.

Elk Creek Vineyards, Owenton
Swing and sway to songs of the ‘70s performed by the Kentucky Symphony Orchestra on Aug. 15. Groove to Motown favorites the Temptations performing their smooth tunes on Sept. 12. Savor fresh sushi wrapped by a sushi chef on site, or if you’re more formally inclined, book a VIP ticket and enjoy a wonderful dinner on the winery patio.  Just a quick drive from Frankfort, Lexington and Florence, www.elkcreekvineyards.com has more information about Elk Creek events.

Equus Run Vineyard, Midway 
Join Equus Run, a fixture in the Bluegrass, as it celebrates its ninth year of summer concerts. Two series offer local, regional and national bands. Coming up on Aug. 1 is your chance to catch smooth jazz sensation Euge Groove at a special fundraiser sponsored by the African American Forum. Dinner is from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. and music swings from 7 - 9 p.m.  Get ticket info at www.equusrunvineyards.com and check out the cork board while you’re there.

For more information about these and other vineyards throughout Kentucky, where vines were first planted in the late1700’s and award-winning wines are produced today, see the Kentucky Grape and Wine Council web site at www.KentuckyWine.com.  The Kentucky Travel Department’s web site, www.kytourism.com, also has information about wineries and vineyards as well as other events and attractions throughout the state.

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The Kentucky Department of Travel, an agency of the Tourism, Arts & Heritage Cabinet, promotes the Commonwealth as a travel destination, to generate revenue and create jobs for Kentucky’s economy.  Tourism brought $11 million dollars of business to the state in 2008.