SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

The Gilded Grape Winery, owned by Paul Malcolm and David Wellesm, held a wine tasting and customer appreciation night Saturday. The Gilded Grape Winery is located at 4034B Tamiami Trail in Port Charlotte. Visit its website at www.gildedgrape.com.

SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

Charlene Hayman, holding some goodies to share, is greeted by Estellita Rainwater-August.

SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

Lee Rice and Bob Giacomo relax and sample some wines.

SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

Whitney Perkins shows off some of the many varieties of wine kits available.

SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

Owner David Welles enjoys the company of friends JoAnn and Jim Padgette, Louie Cascone, Cheryl and Vinnie Mannino.

SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

Larry and Carol MacKinnon, left, who are looking forward to making their first batch of wine, chat with Gilded Grape veterans Bob and Linda Glidden, right, who have made over 100 batches.

SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

Bob August pours some white wine for Jessica Long to enjoy, while Cherie Valentine looks on.

SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

Rita and Paul Headrick have been making wine for 47 years.

SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

Owner David Welles and Dino Garnett keep the guests entertained with karaoke.

SUN PHOTO BY SUE PAQUIN

Joe and LuAnn Massey enjoy attending the monthly Gilded Grape events.