As a member of the 1899 Club, you have a unique opportunity to celebrate and support App State!

Since 1899 and with a shared vision of our founders of helping children in North Carolina’s “lost provinces” discover educational opportunity to match the splendor of the mountains in which they lived, Appalachian State University has distinguished itself as the premier public undergraduate institution in the state of North Carolina and is known for its special combination of people and place.

Those who join the 1899 Club will receive handcrafted, limited-production wines that arrive at your door in a vintage fire-branded wooden crate that is handmade exclusively for Appalachian State University.

Mountain Strong - 2023 Pinot Noir - Russian River Valley

There is something special about Saturdays in Boone, when generations of Mountaineers gather and Black & Gold fills the High Country. Following the devastation of Hurricane Helene, our community united with neighbors helping neighbors and Mountaineers answering the call. Through service, generosity, and resilience, we embodied what it means to be Mountain Strong. Raise a glass to our mountains, traditions, and community.

We introduce you to Mountain Strong. The 2023 vintage will be remembered for its cool conditions throughout the summer and into harvest, shaping a beautifully expressive Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley. Layered aromas of blackberry, baking spices, cranberry, cardamom, anise, and floral rose burst forth on the nose, while zingy cherry juice, cola nut, black tea, pomegranate, and hints of lemon zest unfold on the palate of this lush round Pinot that is braced by bright acidity.