Every Thursday evening The Umstead Hotel and Spa hosts a Cocktail Party on the terrace. The events are hosted by Sommelier Justin Tilley and Mixologist Sara Vannice. Each week’s event will explore a new summer-inspired theme, alternating between wines and cocktails. Tilley will feature a flight of 4 or 5 warm weather-friendly wines, and Vannice will offer a flight of 3 cocktails. While guests mix, mingle, and sip, they’ll enjoy informal discussions with Tilley and Vannice about the wines and cocktails, live music, and the gorgeous panoramic view of the lake from the terrace. Reservations are not taken. 5 to 6:30pm; $18 per person

• July 2: The Godivas (Chocolate, White Chocolate and Caramel Liqueurs)
• July 9: Wines from the Pacific Northwest
• July 16: Grand Marnier/ Navan (Liqueur blend made from cognacs, distilled with orange essences/Natural Vanilla Liqueur).
• July 23: France’s Best White Wines
• July 30: Domaine de Canton (Ginger Liqueur with eau de vie and Cognac, flavored with fresh Vietnamese Ginger)
• August 6: California’s Wine Gems
• August 13: Champagne & Sparkling Wine Cocktails
• August 20: Refreshing Italian White Wines
• August 27: Antioxidants: Pama, Pearl, Stoli Blueberi (Pomegranate Liqueur, Pomegranate Vodka, blueberry flavored vodka)