The Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina

Yesterday, our wine dinner was held in a charming, early 19th century inn located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, named the Inn on Church Street. Built between 1919 and 1921, the 21 room Inn was developed during a time when Hendersonville had become a bustling, growing town in the western portion of North Carolina. During the turn of the last century, catering to the tourism boom, hotels had sprung up all around downtown Main Street. Today, the Inn on Church Street is one of the few remaining hotels of the period. In February 1989, the Inn gained official certification as a National Historic building. Aside from the historical background of the Inn, it is also most notable for its continuous use as a hotel for the duration of these years. In May of 2006, the Inn was purchased by Brenda and Steve Merrefield, who now take pride in keeping the legacy of the Inn on Church alive and growing.

Last night, the staff of the Inn’s quaint candle lit dining room left no detail over looked for our tasting, it was beautiful. Chef executed an impressive presentation that paired our wines perfectly with his exquisite menu. The Venison Osso Buco, served over roasted carrots and infused mashed potatoes, paired beautifully with our well structured and balanced Syrah Sélectionné, it was fabulous, and all of the guests of the Inn loved it. Thanks Chef!

Michelle, the staff, and the Inn are just what you want on a quiet vacation to the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, perfection. Thank you.

Chef’s Menu:

Lobster Consomme with Lobster
Pot Stickers and Wild Mushrooms.
2006 Blanc du Rhone

Five Onion Strudel
Caramelized Onion with pecans
Bound in Rich Veal Demi Glace
then Wrapped and Baked in Phyllo Pastry
on a bed of Apple butter Dijon cream sauce.
2006 Viognier

Cassoulet of Duck Breast, Duck Confit,
Wild Boar Sausage, Apple Smoked Bacon,
White Beans, Fresh Thyme and Tomato Concasse
2004 Cuvee des Cinq

Venison Osso Buco served over Roasted Carrot
Infused Mashed Potatoes topped with Fried Onions
2005 Syrah Sélectionné

Assorted Chesses and Fruits
2005 Le Thief

Tonight, Highlands, North Carolina and the Grand Pouring.