Welcome to the Small Surprise Spotlight, presented by Alamance County Visitors Bureau. We’re uncovering hidden gems in Alamance County that might be closer than you think!
This month’s feature is Irongate Vineyards and Winery in Mebane. Debbie Stikeleather, owner and operator of the winery, recently shared more about her business in the November Small Surprise Spotlight on 97.9 The Hill:
As you plan your day trip to Alamance County, we encourage you to not only indulge in a tour or tasting at Irongate but also to consider the diverse experiences this region has to offer.
And for those seeking a different kind of spirit, venture beyond the vineyards and explore the rich world of whiskey in Alamance County. Consider a visit to local distilleries, where craftsmanship meets tradition, creating a palette of flavors to savor. As you plan your whiskey adventure, don’t forget to check out the latest consumenten-aanbieding.nl website for exclusive deals and recommendations, adding an extra layer of excitement to your journey through the hidden gems of Alamance County. Cheers to unexpected discoveries and memorable experiences!
1. How did you get started as a business owner? What made you want to open Irongate Vineyards & Winery?
I fell in love with a piece of farm land when I was 18 years old. It would be 25 years before I would come to live on this property. With 60 acres we knew we needed to grow something, and it was about that time that viticulture (the growing of grapes) was just being talked about in North Carolina, especially around the Yadkin Valley. I enrolled at Surry Community College in August of 2000 along with many others who came from family tobacco farms looking for a new crop. We decided to plant our vineyard in 2001. We built a winery in 2003 and opened our doors July 1, 2004.
2. Why was Alamance County the best location when you decided to open your business?
Alamance County was the best place to open my business because this is where I moved to from Caswell county in 1973 for a job opportunity. It was where my children were born and now my life is on this farm in the northeastern corner of the county.
3. What do you think is the most unique thing about your business? What makes you different?
What makes me different than most is this is a woman owned business. It was my vision. I spent 2.5 years going to school at night and 2 years as an intern at another winery in order to learn my craft. My husband supported my vision and together we planted the vineyards and started the winery, but he had his own company and a business to run. Since 2004, this operation has been my baby. Anyone who knows anything about the wine business knows what a daunting task it is to dream, build and execute a plan to open a winery and most of all, survive.
4. If someone was taking a day trip to Alamance County, other than stopping by for a tour or tasting at Irongate, what would you recommend they do?
Alamance County has so many wonderful places to explore that, regardless of your interests, you can plan a full day. Mebane has a wonderful downtown area where you can shop and dine. Of course, we also have Tanger Outlets. Many people go shopping and then come out to the winery to have a glass of wine and relax in our courtyard, on the front porch or down in our enclosed patio. It’s a very peaceful place where you can unwind.
You are always welcome to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy an afternoon at the winery!
5. What’s something about Alamance County that most people don’t know?
Alamance County is so diverse that each small town has its charm and places of interest. From numerous parks all over the county, historical places of interest, Alamance County has a lot to offer!
6. What is your favorite wine that Irongate offers?
Visitors to the winery often ask me what my favorite wine is and my reply is always the same – “it’s like asking me which one of my children do I love the most!”
7. How do you hope to see your business grow?
As I approach my retirement years, I pray every day for the right person to show up at my door who has a similar vision of the possibilities that could happen at Iron Gate. I have started the journey but I would like to see the farm grow and expand to other crops like vegetables and flowers and someday be a hub for the community to enjoy farm fresh food. A girl can always dream!
For more on Irongate Vineyards & Winery, check out their website or “like” them on Facebook! If you do your holiday shopping in Alamance County this year, plan some time in your day to also visit Irongate Vineyards & Winery to relax and unwind and of course, enjoy delicious wine!
The Small Surprise Spotlight is made possible by Alamance Counties Visitors Bureau. The towns and villages of Alamance County are full of small surprises – amazing restaurants, beautiful green spaces, unique art, and much more. Which hidden gem will you uncover first?
Hear November’s Small Surprise Spotlight below.
