On a recent trip to the Raleigh area we stopped by to visit Cloer Family Vineyards for the first time. Cloer Family Vineyards is located in Apex, North Carolina. It is a family owned and operated vineyard and winery. Working the land is in the Cloer family’s blood. Tam Cloer, began as a nursery owner, then decided to try his hand at growing grapes and making wine. In 2010 he expanded his family’s farm to include a vineyard. Tam’s wine making began as a hobby, learning from a neighbor. In 1995 he began growing his own grapes. It wasn’t an overnight success. After 12 years of various setbacks he decided to uproot all his vines and start over. This time, with guidance from North Carolina State University researchers, he planted grapes that flourished. He and his wife, Pam, hosted picking parties with friends and family. The family would host dinners and serve their wine and give bottles as gifts. The feedback was so positive regarding the quality of their wine they planned out their vision of a winery. Their plan is a success. They have created a beautiful winery that is perfect for a relaxing and comfortable place to enjoy a glass or two of wine.
Charles and I spent a Friday afternoon at Cloer. We each ordered a tasting of all their wines. We started with a Reisling, a dry white with a hint of peach on the back end. Then we moved to Matador, an 18 month old American and French oak barrel aged red wine. Carlos can be enjoyed as a stand alone wine. It is an easy drinking wine. Our last wine was Noble, a semi-sweet that pairs well with pizza or chocolate. We purchased a bottle of the Matador and set out on a self guided tour of the property. We also brought home a bottle of their Reisling. There are many areas to spread out on the property. A housing development sits adjacent to the grounds. We joked about how convenient it would be to live within walking distance to Cloer. There is a pond and even a children’s play area.
Just as the outside offers many spots to meet up with friends or to celebrate a special occasion the tasting room is absolutely beautiful. Pam brought her UNC-CH event planning background to the operation. She organizes private events and wine and design parties. You can describe Pam's influence on the operation as the “what you see”. I reached out to Pam and she immediately responded. She was extremely helpful and answered all our questions. The Cloer family is a "divided" family. Tam and their 2 daughters are NCSU alumni and students. This winery is truly a collaboration of family members. The Cloer family has created a beautiful winery and tasting room, spacious grounds and outstanding wine. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic.
All their grapes are grown on their property or they outsource only North Carolina grapes. They have created wines that are a result of years of dedication and patience. Currently they are open Fridays and Saturdays. Be sure to check out their website for upcoming events https://cloerfamilyvineyards.com
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