HENDERSON COUNTY - Having been in the wine-producing business for just the past 12 years, Henderson County's wine region is now being honored with the likes of the top wine-producing regions in the country, like California and Colorado.

USA TODAY recently announced in its 10 Best feature that is picked by readers nationwide that the Crest of the Blue Ridge in Henderson County was among the top 10 best wine regions in the country, coming in at No. 8 on the list.

According to the article, Henderson County is home to North Carolina's newest American Viticultural Area, which is a designated wine-grape-growing region in the United States. The link to the article is found by clicking here.

"What a tremendous accomplishment by Henderson County vineyard owners to be recognized on a national stage, with such a high ranking alongside well-known west coast production areas," Agribusiness Henderson County Executive Director Mark Williams told the Times-News on Aug. 11. "It’s even more impressive how quickly Crest of the Blue Ridge growers gained this notoriety."

The first Henderson County vintage for the public was in 2011. The county currently has eight wineries making up the 215-square mile AVA, with two new wineries to open soon.

"Our vineyards cover about 125 acres and owners have been quick studies, learning the best varieties for the region and what it takes to produce great quality," Williams said. "They also know how to draw visitors with the unique and inviting settings of each venue. Even folks who prefer a nonalcoholic beverage can find much pleasure in the peaceful mountain beauty of our Crest of the Blue Ridge vineyards."

To read more about Henderson County’s wineries and their production, click here.

Reprinted with persmission from the Hendersonville Times-News.