Russell Lapinski & Fortress BBQ

Russell Lapinski & Fortress BBQ bring together live acoustic music, craft barbecue, and a relaxing Sunday winery experience at Gioia dell’Amore Cellars in the rolling foothills in Mayodan, NC.

What to Expect

Some Sundays are made for checking the clock. This one is made for losing track of time.

Settle into the cozy tasting room, gather your favorite people, and let the afternoon unfold with great music, incredible barbecue, and the simple joy of being exactly where you are.

From 1:00–5:00 pm, Fortress BBQ will be serving up a mouthwatering lineup of regional barbecue favorites. Whether you’re craving smoky brisket, tender Saint Louis-style pork ribs, pulled pork, or pork steak, there is something to delight every barbecue lover. And because every great love story deserves a sweet ending, don’t skip the peanut butter pie or classic banana pudding.

From 2:00–5:00 pm, Russell Lapinski fills the tasting room with his signature acoustic style, creating the perfect soundtrack for a slow Sunday afternoon. Expect familiar favorites, unexpected gems, and the kind of music that makes you stay for just one more song.

The tasting room is open from 1:00–6:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to sip, relax, and enjoy the company around you. The best Sundays are not measured by a schedule—they are measured by laughter, connection, and moments you’ll be smiling about long after the last note fades.

Menu

About Your Hosts

Russell John Lapinski is a hometown treasure who invites his audience on a musical journey like no other. With his signature acoustic style, Russell breathes fresh life into popular favorites and rare eclectic gems, creating a soundscape that’s as unique as it is captivating. Each performance is a heartfelt serenade, weaving together nostalgia and surprise with every strum of his guitar. Whether you’re singing along or simply soaking in the vibes, Russell’s music is the perfect soundtrack to unforgettable moments.

Fortress BBQ Mobile monolith creating regional BBQ from NC, TX, CA, KC in the Triad-area NC. Trained by the best in the business, Pitmaster Adam Harvey is ready to serve up craft BBQ unrivaled in the area. From brisket to Saint Lewis pork ribs to Pulled pork and pork steak, they have a delight for every carnivore. To finish with a little something sweet, try their peanut butter pie or banana pudding!

Gioia dell’Amore Cellars (pronounced: “Joy-A” – “dell” – “Ah more ay”) invites you to savor the Joy of Love in every sip and every step. Nestled on 96 acres of rolling hills in Mayodan, NC, our vineyard is a rustic escape where love lingers in the air and laughter dances among the vines of Autumn Creek Vineyards. Whether you’re toasting in our elegant yet cozy tasting room, unwinding in a romantic cabin, or saying “I do” at our dreamy wedding venue, every moment here is steeped in romance.