Brotherhood 'Knights'

May 26, 2008

The North Carolina Chapter of The Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine is an association of individuals who "share an appreciation for and an interest in the Vines and Wines of America."

The preamble of this Brotherhood states that, "Wine is a gift from God which has been used as a food and a symbolic beverage for centuries"; and "mankind has the privilege to enjoy wine."

"Wine is a gift of nature" and "growth of it's consumption is a gift of man to man: Therefore we bind together in the Brotherhood to enjoy and appreciate it's use by telling of this gift in the world and by teaching Restraint and Reason."

The aims and purposes of this Brotherhood are: (1) to proclaim the "virtues and use" of vines and wines "in a modern society by demonstrating the good life with wine through the courtesies of the table (wine with dinner)"; (2) to educate ourselves and the public "that wine is a healthy and hygienic beverage and beneficial to modern life"; (3) to "bring honor and distinction to those individuals who support the cause of the Vines and Wines of America"; and (4) to "support higher education of students of vinology and enology through the funding of scholarships."

What a great wine and grape industry asset to North Carolina!

I wish now to share a surprise honor with you, my wine readers. On Saturday, April 26, 2008, Helen and I were invited to a Black Tie dinner at the Vineyards at River Landing in Wallace, given by The Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine. Following dinner, I was invited to become a Member of the Order.

Needless to say, I was not only surprised and honored with this invitation; I also feel very humble that I was chosen, as membership in this Distinguished Order is strictly reserved to persons of distinction who know wine, appreciate wine and pledge to serve the Brotherhood well!

Sir Buddy Harrell, Bennett Vineyards