From the Publisher
How are you going to spend your summer?
I mean, besides running scared from the cicadas. I love summertime in Nashville and there’s no shortage of things to do, so we’ve made a list for you in this edition. Obviously, there are a million things going on, and CMA Fest will bring nearly 100,000 attendees to our fair city this month. I know many of you will travel, but don’t forget there are so many wonderful ways to spend time right here in Music City, too.
For starters, don’t forget all the cool museums — they have air conditioning! I love being a tourist in my hometown and there’s so much to explore and learn. Why not spend a beautiful day at Cheekwood and take in the grounds? They have a great classic car show going on June 15 and 16 that I cannot wait to see, myself. Of course, our cover feature is Kix Brooks. You know him as a performer, one-half of the great Brooks & Dunn, but did you know that he also co-owns Arrington Vineyards? This might be the best way to spend a summer Saturday... with a glass of wine. Their Firefly is a delicious dry Rosé to try! You can make an entire itinerary for the summer when you flip through this issue.
And I would be remiss if I did not mention some of the exciting events that we have coming up this summer. This July we will host our annual Bartender Bash competition. You won’t want to miss it, as more than a dozen local bartenders compete for the best cocktail. I can’t think of a better way to cool down! Also, our annual Women in Business event happens every August, featuring 15 amazing local leaders. This is a great opportunity for networking and to hear some inspiring stories. More information on those and other events coming soon, so be sure to keep an eye on our website and social media.
Don’t forget to follow us for more!
Brian Barry
From the Editor
It’s officially my favorite time of the year — summer!
The temps are high, the sun is out, and there have never been more ways to enjoy these gorgeous Music City days. In this issue, we’re sharing some of our favorite things to do this season from indoor air-conditioned escapes to outdoor fun in the sun. Use our Summer Fun feature to help build your ultimate itinerary so all that’s left is to grab your sunnies, hit the town, and enjoy!
A personal must-do for me every season is a trip (or several) to Arrington Vineyards. Beloved by Nashvillians and visitors alike, Arrington Vineyards is likely already a warm weather staple for most. But what might surprise you is the story behind how this labor of love has transformed Tennessee’s wine country from its humble beginnings over 20 years ago. Our cover star and co-owner of Arrington Vineyards, Kix Brooks – yes, Kix Brooks, as in one-half of the iconic country music duo Brooks & Dunn – shares his story of growing what started as a small, local operation into the 95-acre, wildly popular wine oasis it is today.
If you’re looking to plan a trip a bit further from home, be sure to read our feature on Florida’s breathtaking St. George Island. Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and Apalachicola Bay in North Florida, St. George Island is the perfect summer getaway to immerse yourself in unspoiled beaches and the tranquility of nature. And if you need some new music to fill your summer days, we’ve got you covered. Our music writer Chris Parton chatted with country superstar Carly Pearce to get the scoop on her highly anticipated new album, hummingbird, arriving June 7. Filled with rich vocals and powerful lyrics, you’ll want to keep this album on repeat all season long (and beyond).
We’re also bringing you some must-visit dining destinations, including the recently opened, elegant-meets-approachable restaurant, The Finch. And for a next-level farm-to-table experience, you’ll want to plan a visit to Southall Farm and Inn’s signature fine dining restaurant, January. Plus, we’ve included some fabulous food and cocktail recipes you can make right from the comfort of home to elevate your summer entertaining.
So without further ado, let the summer fun begin!
Nicole Brown