New “Wine and Dine on the Mountain” Weekend Kicks Off the Season in Highlands, NC.

Here is the press release from Old Edwards Inn & Spa:

Wine and Dine on the Mountain will kick off the 2009 season in Highlands, NC, by pulling together a sizzling line-up of fine wines, superb food and fine art May 1 through 3.

The “Wine and Dine on the Mountain” weekend is a sensory extravaganza that begins with a Champagne Reception followed by a 5-course Shafer Wine Dinner at Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro Friday night at 7 pm. An Hors D’oeuvre Reception will begin Saturday evening at Madison’s Restaurant, followed by a Caymus Dinner. Guests of both events will have the opportunity to watch the wines come to life, as Arvid paints live for the occasions. On Sunday at noon, a New Orleans Jazz brunch at Wolfgang’s will take center stage.

Named one of the top "25 Artists You Should Know" by US Art magazine, Thomas Arvid receives critical acclaim for his monumental compositions of wine and his mastery of light, depth and reflection. Inspired by the grace and hospitality of the southern culture in which he lives, Arvid’s compositions are an invitation to take the time to appreciate sharing a great bottle and good conversation with friends.

“I can’t think of a better place to spend an evening with great friends,” says Arvid. “Highlands and events like this – with wonderful food, wine and culture – truly foster camaraderie, similar to what I try to evoke in each of my paintings. I’ll have my easel with me; it’s going to be an inspiring weekend.”

Throughout the weekend, guests will enjoy art and culinary events—including:

• Shafer Wine Dinner Friday at Wolfgang’s with Thomas Arvid painting live
• Caymus Wine Dinner Saturday at Madison’s with Thomas Arvid painting live
• New Orleans Jazz Brunch at Wolfgang’s Sunday
• 30% off rejuvenating spa treatments at the Spa at Old Edwards all weekend
• Sunday’s at the Spa: Complimentary Chocolates and Champagne with Salon Treatments
• Shopping discounts at Acorn’s Boutique and Acorn’s Annex at Old Edwards Inn
• Late checkout on Monday

“We are working together to foster an ambiance of arts and culture in Highlands—including the art of wine and food,” says Richard Delany, President of the Old Edwards Inn and Spa. “We have such quality resources in all of these areas. And we can create compelling, memorable experiences for locals and visitors by forming creative partnerships that result in events like this.”

Wolfgang Green, owner of Wolfgang’s Restaurant and Wine Bistro, says, “We’ve always had great success with our wine weekends, and last year’s Thomas Arvid event was no exception. By partnering with other businesses like the Wolfgang’s and Thomas Arvid, we can pull together offerings celebrate spring by bringing them to Highlands for some art, music, literature, superb wine and fine dining—an unbeatable combination!”

Space is limited. To reserve today, call 866-526-8008. For more information, visit oldedwardsinn.com.