Best 10 Wineries in Tennessee: A Guide to the Top Vineyards and Tasting Rooms
Tennessee is home to some of the best wineries in the United States. With over 69 wineries and vineyards, Tennessee provides picturesque destinations to visitors and locals. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a fun weekend activity, visiting the wineries in Tennessee is a must-do experience.
From the beautiful vineyards to the unique wine variants, Tennessee’s wineries offer a diverse range of experiences. Visitors can take a grape escape across the state and explore the different wine trails. Nashville, the state’s capital and largest city, is a great starting point for those looking to explore the wineries of Tennessee. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which wineries to visit. In this article, we’ll provide a guide to some of the best wineries in Tennessee, highlighting their unique features and wine offerings.
History of Tennessee Wineries
Tennessee has a rich history of winemaking that dates back to the late 1800s when grape growing was a major cash crop. However, during the Prohibition era, the production and sale of alcohol were banned, and this led to a decline in the wine industry. It was not until the early 1980s that the industry began to recover, and wineries started to re-emerge in the state.
The history of Tennessee wineries is closely tied to the history of tobacco and whiskey production in the state. Many of the early winemakers were also tobacco farmers who saw an opportunity to diversify their crops. The wine industry in Tennessee has also been influenced by the state’s whiskey heritage, with many winemakers using whiskey barrels to age their wines.
Today, Tennessee has over 69 wineries and vineyards, and the industry continues to grow. The state has seven wine trails, and visitors can explore fantastic wineries that offer different wine variants and cultural experiences. Some of the most popular wine trails in Tennessee include the Rocky Top Wine Trail, the Upper Cumberland Wine Trail, and the Great Valley Wine Trail.
In recent years, Tennessee wineries have gained recognition for their high-quality wines, and the industry has become an important part of the state’s tourism industry. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, tours, and other events at many of the wineries, making Tennessee a great destination for wine lovers.
Tennessee Wine Regions
Tennessee is home to three main wine regions: East Tennessee, Middle Tennessee, and West Tennessee. Each region has its unique characteristics that make it stand out.
East Tennessee
East Tennessee is situated in the northern part of the state and is known for its hot and humid climate, which makes it ideal for grape growing. The region is home to several wineries, including the Mountain Valley Winery, which produces a variety of wines, including Muscadine and Concord.
Middle Tennessee
Middle Tennessee is the most famous wine region in Tennessee, and it is home to Tennessee Wine Country. The region is known for its rolling hills and fertile soil, making it ideal for grape growing. The region is home to several wineries, including Belle Meade Winery and Arrington Vineyards.
West Tennessee
West Tennessee is situated in the western part of the state and is known for its rich soil and mild climate, which makes it ideal for grape growing. The region is home to several wineries, including the Paris Winery, which produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.
In conclusion, Tennessee has several wine regions that produce world-class wines. Whether you are in East Tennessee, Middle Tennessee, or West Tennessee, you are sure to find a winery that suits your taste.
Notable Tennessee Wineries
Tennessee is home to a diverse range of wineries, each with its unique character and offerings. Here are some notable wineries in Tennessee that are worth a visit:
Delta Blues Winery
Delta Blues Winery is located in Lakeland, Tennessee, and is a family-owned and operated winery that produces a range of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. The winery has a cozy tasting room where visitors can sample their wines and enjoy live music on weekends. Delta Blues Winery also hosts events and private parties.
Website: https://deltablueswinery.com/
Address: 6585 Stewart Rd, Lakeland, TN 38002, United States
Apple Barn Winery
Apple Barn Winery is situated in Sevierville, Tennessee, and is a part of the Apple Barn and Cider Mill complex. The winery produces a variety of wines, including apple, peach, and blackberry wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of their wines while exploring the complex, which includes a restaurant, bakery, and gift shop.
Website: https://applebarnwines.com/
Address: 220 Apple Valley Rd, Sevierville, TN 37862, United States
Arrington Vineyards
Arrington Vineyards is located in Arrington, Tennessee, and is owned by Kix Brooks, one-half of the country music duo Brooks & Dunn. The winery produces a range of wines, including red, white, and sparkling wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of their wines while taking in the beautiful views of the vineyards and surrounding countryside.
Website: https://arringtonvineyards.com/
Address: 6211 Patton Rd, Arrington, TN 37014, United States
Old Millington Winery
Old Millington Winery is located in Millington, Tennessee, and is housed in a historic building that was once a cotton gin. The winery produces a range of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of their wines in the tasting room or on the outdoor patio.
Website: https://www.oldmillingtonwinery.com/
Address: 6748 Old Millington Rd, Millington, TN 38053, United States
Century Farm Winery
Century Farm Winery is situated in Jackson, Tennessee, and is a family-owned and operated winery that produces a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. The winery has a cozy tasting room where visitors can sample their wines and enjoy live music on weekends.
Website: https://centuryfarmwinery.com/
Address: 1548 Lower Brownsville Rd, Jackson, TN 38301, United States
Keg Springs Winery
Keg Springs Winery is located in Hampshire, Tennessee, and is a family-owned and operated winery that produces a range of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. The winery has a cozy tasting room where visitors can sample their wines and enjoy live music on weekends.
Website: http://www.kegsprings.com/
Address: 361 Keg Springs Rd, Hampshire, TN 38461, United States
Amber Falls Winery
Amber Falls Winery is situated in Hampshire, Tennessee, and is a family-owned and operated winery that produces a range of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. The winery has a beautiful tasting room where visitors can sample their wines and enjoy live music on weekends.
Website: http://www.amberfallswinery.com/
Address: 794 Ridgetop Rd, Hampshire, TN 38461, United States
Big Creek Winery
Big Creek Winery is located in Pulaski, Tennessee, and is a family-owned and operated winery that produces a range of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. The winery has a cozy tasting room where visitors can sample their wines and enjoy live music on weekends.
Website: https://bigcreekwinerytennessee.com/
Address: 1900 Crescentview Rd, Pulaski, TN 38478, United States
Natchez Hills Vineyard
Natchez Hills Vineyard is situated in Hampshire, Tennessee, and is a family-owned and operated winery that produces a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. The winery has a beautiful tasting room where visitors can sample their wines and enjoy live music on weekends.
Website: https://www.natchezhills.com/
Address: 109 Mail Rd, Hampshire, TN 38461, United States
De Terra Winery
De Terra Winery is located in Cookeville, Tennessee, and is a family-owned and operated winery that produces a range of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. The winery has a cozy tasting room where visitors can sample their wines and enjoy live music on weekends.
Website: https://www.deterrawinery.com/
Address: 605 Joyners Campground Dr, Somerville, TN 38068, United States
Popular Wine Varieties in Tennessee
Tennessee has a diverse range of wine varieties that cater to different tastes and preferences. Some of the popular wine varieties in Tennessee include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Muscadine, Blackberry Wine, Sangiovese, Muscadine Mist, Sweet Wines, and Dry Wines.
Chardonnay is a popular white wine variety in Tennessee that is known for its fruity and crisp taste. It is a versatile wine that pairs well with seafood, chicken, and light pasta dishes.
Pinot Noir is a light-bodied red wine that is known for its delicate flavors. It is a popular wine variety in Tennessee that pairs well with grilled salmon, roasted chicken, and mushroom dishes.
Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied red wine that is known for its rich and complex flavors. It is a popular wine variety in Tennessee that pairs well with red meat, lamb, and hearty pasta dishes.
Merlot is a medium-bodied red wine that is known for its fruity and smooth taste. It is a popular wine variety in Tennessee that pairs well with grilled meats, pasta dishes, and cheese.
Muscadine is a unique wine variety in Tennessee that is made from the muscadine grape. It is a sweet wine that is known for its fruity and floral flavors. It pairs well with spicy dishes, desserts, and cheese.
Blackberry Wine is a popular fruit wine variety in Tennessee that is made from blackberries. It is a sweet wine that is known for its fruity and tart flavors. It pairs well with spicy dishes, desserts, and cheese.
Sangiovese is a red wine variety in Tennessee that is known for its earthy and spicy flavors. It is a popular wine variety that pairs well with tomato-based dishes, grilled meats, and cheese.
Muscadine Mist is a unique wine variety in Tennessee that is made from the muscadine grape. It is a sweet and sparkling wine that is known for its fruity and floral flavors. It pairs well with spicy dishes, desserts, and cheese.
Sweet Wines are a popular wine variety in Tennessee that caters to those who prefer a sweeter taste. They pair well with desserts, spicy dishes, and cheese.
Dry Wines are a popular wine variety in Tennessee that caters to those who prefer a less sweet taste. They pair well with grilled meats, pasta dishes, and cheese.
Wine Tasting Experiences
Tennessee is home to some of the best wineries in the country, and wine tasting is a popular activity for both visitors and locals. Most wineries in Tennessee offer wine-tasting experiences that allow visitors to sample a variety of wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Visitors can enjoy wine tasting in a variety of settings, including tasting rooms, outdoor patios, and picnic areas. Many wineries offer guided tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process and include a tasting of their signature wines.
The Tennessee Wine Trail is a popular way to explore the state’s wineries and vineyards. The trail includes several wine regions, each with its unique wine-tasting experiences. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives through the countryside while stopping at wineries along the way to sip and sample.
Some wineries in Tennessee offer social wine-tasting events, such as wine and cheese pairings and live music. These events provide a fun and relaxed atmosphere for visitors to enjoy wine tasting with friends or family.
It’s important to note that while wine tasting can be a fun and enjoyable experience, it’s essential to drink responsibly. Visitors should plan ahead and arrange for transportation if they plan on drinking. Many wineries offer shuttle services or partner with local transportation companies to provide safe transportation options.
Special Events and Festivals
Tennessee is home to a variety of wine-related special events and festivals throughout the year. These events offer visitors a chance to taste some of the best wines in the state, meet winemakers, and learn about the winemaking process. Here are some of the top wine events and festivals in Tennessee:
SipTN Nashville/Chattanooga Wine Festival
SipTN Nashville/Chattanooga Wine Festival is a two-day event that takes place in Nashville and Chattanooga. The festival features over 20 Tennessee wineries, offering visitors a chance to taste a variety of wines. In addition to wine tastings, the festival also includes food vendors, live music, and arts and crafts.
Nine Lakes Wine Festival
The Nine Lakes Wine Festival is held in Oak Ridge and features over 20 Tennessee wineries. The festival offers visitors a chance to taste a variety of wines, attend seminars on wine and food pairings, and enjoy live music. The festival also includes food vendors and arts and crafts.
Nashville Wine & Food Festival
The Nashville Wine & Food Festival is a one-day event that takes place in Nashville. The festival features over 50 wineries from around the world, offering visitors a chance to taste a variety of wines. In addition to wine tastings, the festival also includes food vendors, live music, and cooking demonstrations.
Harvest Festival
The Harvest Festival is held in September and October and takes place at various wineries throughout Tennessee. The festival offers visitors a chance to see the winemaking process in action, taste wines, and enjoy live music and food vendors.
Wine on the Westside
Wine on the Westside is held in May and takes place in downtown Chattanooga. The festival features over 15 Tennessee wineries, offering visitors a chance to taste a variety of wines. In addition to wine tastings, the festival also includes food vendors, live music, and arts and crafts.
Overall, Tennessee offers a variety of wine-related events and festivals throughout the year, making it a great destination for wine enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Tennessee is a great destination for wine lovers, with a wide range of wineries and vineyards to explore. Visitors can follow several wine trails and explore fantastic wineries of different wine variants and different cultural experiences. The state boasts over 69 wineries and vineyards, seven total wine trails, and 1,000 acres of vineyard space.
The Great Smoky Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for many of Tennessee’s wineries, including Tsali Notch Vineyard and The Winery at Seven Springs Farm. Visitors can enjoy the mountain views while tasting Tennessee homemade wines, such as the popular Cash Crop and Black and Blue varieties.
In addition to wine, visitors can also try mead and cider at some of Tennessee’s wineries. The Delta Blues Winery offers a glass of fine wine and sunset by the lake dock, while the Appalachian High Country boasts magnificent wineries in Tennessee’s beautiful countryside, such as DelMonaco Winery & Vineyards.
Overall, Tennessee’s wineries offer a diverse range of experiences for wine enthusiasts. Whether visitors are looking for mountain views, cultural experiences, or unique wine varieties, Tennessee has something to offer.