TRYON — Wine tastings are now officially allowed at Tryon’s Tailgate Markets on Thursdays.

Tryon Town Council met Tuesday and heard from Town Manager Zach Ollis about a state law that allows wine tastings. The council approved the motion 3-1, with commissioners Crys Armbrust, Bill Crowell and Bill Ingham voting in favor and commissioner Chrelle Booker voting against. 

Ollis said he had been in contact with Growing Rural Opportunities’ Patrick McLendon, who provided the state statute.

“These statues outline the ability of wineries to present at various events,” Ollis said.

McLendon and Farmers Market Manager Erika McMillan attended the town’s April meeting and gave a presentation about Tryon’s Tailgate Market. Commissioners told the pair last month that the town had previously voted against allowing any kind of alcohol at the tailgate market.

North Carolina General Statute 18B-1114.1 details where a winery with a special permit can give free tastings or sell its wine, including at farmers markets. The statute goes on to add that a winery special event permit is only valid in a jurisdiction that has approved the establishment of ABC stores or has approved the sale of unfortified wine, which Tryon has.

“Well, if they have the legal right, do we have anything to discuss?” Ingham asked.

Tryon’s Tailgate Market began this month on Thursdays from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Depot Plaza. The location changed this year back to the depot, after having the market last year during morning hours at Harmon Field.

To draw more attention and traffic to the depot, there is a 20-foot farmers market pole banner, thanks to the Rutherford McDowell Polk District, McMillan said. The sign is located at the base of the depot stairs.

“We are actively working on plans this year to incorporate a weekly rotating food and beverage partner booth at both the Tryon and Columbus markets,” McMillan said. “This would allow businesses that feature local farm products to partner with the market. Our goal with this is to add value to the marketgoer experience, and to encourage community support of local businesses.

McMillan added they are also seeking weekly farmers market sponsors, which go directly toward supporting that town’s market.  For more information about becoming a market partner or sponsor, contact McMillan at erika@growrural.org or 828-436-0040.