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inemakers and grape growers in a seven - county area of North Carolina's Yadkin Valley <br />region recently gained recognition and an important marketing tool when the area was <br />named the state's first American Viticultural Area —the U.S. version of the French appellation <br />d'origine controlee. Land that once grew tobacco now grows grapes as vineyards become <br />increasingly popular and profitable. Many winemakers consider Yadkin Valley the best <br />terroir, or wine -grape climate and growing conditions, in North Carolina. <br />F <br />Yadkhr-%, Valiny <br />W i n (:'=�% <br />Cam* <br />R <br />The region is rapidly gaining a reputation for high <br />quality grapes and world -class wines, with produc- <br />tion including Riesling, Chardonnay and Viognier <br />white wine grapes, and cabernet and merlot reds. <br />The effort is led by modern wine pioneers —many <br />former tobacco growers— members of the Old North <br />State Winegrowers Cooperative, a beneficiary of <br />Golden LEAF grants since its inceptioh'in 2001. <br />The burgeoning wine industry also has spawned a <br />new academic program 'at Surry Community College <br />in Dobson, where the Southeast's only viticulture <br />degree program is offered. Dr. Frank Sells, president of <br />the college, says Golden LEAF has been a major <br />impetus in establishment of the program. "I don't see <br />how we could have come this far without their grants," he <br />said. "Our first Brant from Golden LEAF helped us get started, <br />and then with growth in student interest, their additional <br />funding helped us expand and modify the program." <br />Community business leaders characterize the area's <br />blossoming wine industry as a pursuit that has great potential <br />for the Yadkin Valley region. "We believe vineyards will have <br />a , major impact on the agricultural economy for years to <br />come," said Ed Shelton of Shelton Vineyards in Surry <br />County. "With tobacco farming on the decline, this is a great <br />way to diversify the farming industry and open doors to new <br />industries in the area. With the development of regional <br />wineries, the tourism industry will ultimately follow." <br />Dr. Sells agrees. "With the economic impact already <br />being realized, the actual potential is on our doorstep. All <br />Measuring Up <br />