The growth of our state’s wine industry is nothing short of phenomenal. Just a decade ago there were only 25 wineries in North Carolina. Now there are 110. So what’s causing the wine boom in our state? That’s the focus of the new WRAL documentary Grape Expectations. The program premieres June 27 at 7 p.m. and is hosted by WRAL News anchor and reporter Monica Laliberte.
A recent study shows our state’s wine industry has an annual economic impact of about $1.3 billion a year, helps employ about 7,600 North Carolinians and generates about $51 million in local and state tax revenue. In addition to wine production, the economic impact comes from a growing wine tourism industry and the creation of businesses like suppliers that support wineries.
“Grape Expectations” profiles the industry’s pioneers, shows how the industry is generating revenue, examines the sustainability of its growth and explores the wide variety of wineries that span our state from the mountains to the coast.
“Grape Expectations” will air on Capitol Broadcasting Company stations across North Carolina:
- WRAL-TV, Raleigh, June 27 at 7 p.m.
- WILM-TV, Wilmington, June 27 at 7 p.m.
- WRAZ-TV, Durham, July 22, 6 p.m.
- WJZY-TV. Charlotte, July 14, 5 p.m.
- WMYT-TV, Charlotte, July 8, 10:30 p.m.
To watch a preview of the documentary, go to www.wral.com and search “WRAL doc.” The documentary will also be available for on-demand viewing any time after the premiere television broadcast on June 27.