Enjoy the gorgeous spring weather of Currituck County during the Spring Fling. Relax in the company of good friends and sample locally-produced wines while gazing across idyllic waters at the Currituck Outer Banks. What a great way to spend a leisurely afternoon, rekindle a romance, or even fall in love (again).
In a phone interview, Kate Morris, Vineyard owner, stated that they are going to serve "artisan breads," which are created by an artisan baker. This baker is a craftsperson who is trained to the highest degree to mix, ferment, shape and bake a hand-crafted loaf of bread. Artisan bakers understand the science behind the chemical reactions of the ingredients and know how to provide the best environment for the bread to develop. Along with the artisan breads, there will be cheeses, gourmet cold cuts and sweet bakery items to compliment the desert wines. Kate Morris said, “We will spread the tables bountifully in a way that will enhance the beauty and artistry of the artisan breads. We are very excited about this."
Moonrise Bay Vineyard is the result of a dream. Kate and Richard "Oakie" Morris's dream actually began in 1997 as a hobby. In 1999, Moonrise Bay Vineyard, LLC was established as a business entity. The Winery was completed in August, 2000, just in time for the first harvest.
They have planted fourteen acres in Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Nebbiolo, Norton, Syrah, Chambourcin, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Their wines are outstanding examples of local vintage and the owners are proud to serve these spectacular wines.
If you can't make it to the Spring Fling, visit Moonrise Bay during normal operating hours. They are open daily from noon to 5 p.m. or by appointment during other hours. During the winter, Moonrise Bay Vineyard is open only Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
The vineyard is on Knotts Island just south of Virginia Beach, Virginia and just west of the Currituck Outer Banks. From the Outer Banks, take the Currituck Sound Ferry across to Knotts Island, North Carolina. The Vineyard is 3.5 miles from the ferry dock on Woodleigh Road. Once on Woodleigh road proceed 1 (one) mile to the Moonrise Bay sign, which is on the left at the entrance to the driveway.
From Interstate 64, take route168 to Nags Head (exit 291B). Take the 2nd Hanbury Exit (10B) approximately 5.7 miles from I64. After the exit ramp, Hanbury becomes Etheridge Manor Blvd. Stay on Etheridge Manor Blvd for 2.4 miles until it ends at Centerville Turnpike. Turn right on Centerville and go 0.6 miles, then turn left onto Land of Promise Road. Drive 5.4 miles on Land of Promise until it ends at Blackwater Road. Turn right on Blackwater Road, drive 2.3 miles to Pungo Ferry Road. Turn left on Pungo Ferry and drive 2.7 miles until it ends at Princess Anne Road. Turn right on Princess Anne and drive 10.2 miles. Drive across the Knotts Island causeway to arrive on Knotts Island. Bear right on Knotts Island Road (Highway 615) and then left onto Woodleigh Road at the Knotts Island Market. Once on Woodleigh road proceed 1 (one) mile to the Moonrise Bay sign, which is on the left at the entrance to the driveway.
Be certain to give them an advance call if you are going to be in the area outside of normal operating hours: (252) 429-WINE (9463). For further information, visit http://www.visitcurrituck.com/
