Best 13 Wineries in North Georgia GA: A Guide to the Region’s Top Vineyards

ByTony Parker Last Updated:

North Georgia is home to some of the best wineries in the United States. With its rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and award-winning wines, North Georgia has become a popular destination for wine lovers and enthusiasts. From Dahlonega to Cleveland, there are numerous wineries to visit in North Georgia that offer a unique and unforgettable experience.

Visitors can tour the vineyards, taste the wines, and learn about the winemaking process from the experts themselves. Some of the most popular wineries in North Georgia include Wolf Mountain Vineyards, Yonah Mountain Vineyards, and Kaya’s Winery. Wolf Mountain Vineyards, located in Dahlonega, is known for its breathtaking views and delicious wines. Yonah Mountain Vineyards, in Cleveland, offers a unique wine cave experience where visitors can taste wine in a cool, dark environment. Kaya’s Winery, in Dahlonega, is known for its award-winning wines and stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Exploring North Georgia’s Wine Country

North Georgia’s wine country is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Located in the Georgia Mountains, this region boasts breathtaking views and natural beauty that will leave visitors in awe. With over 30 wineries to choose from, visitors can indulge in award-winning wines while enjoying the scenic surroundings.

The North Georgia Mountains are home to some of the best wineries in the state, including Cavender Creek Vineyards & Winery, Frogtown Cellars, Kaya Vineyard and Winery, Montaluce Winery & Restaurant, Three Sisters Vineyards, and Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery. Each winery offers a unique experience, with different varieties of wine, tasting rooms, and events.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour using the interactive North Georgia Wineries Map to find the best wineries for their visit. Many of the wineries in North Georgia wine country exclusively sell their wines at their tasting rooms, allowing tourists to try flavors they might not buy off the shelf.

The region is also home to the Blue Ridge Mountains, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities while taking in the stunning views of the mountains. The area is also known for its charming small towns, which offer unique shopping and dining experiences.

North Georgia’s wine country is easily accessible from Atlanta, making it a perfect weekend getaway. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the region while indulging in award-winning wines and delicious food.

Discovering the Wineries of North Georgia

North Georgia is home to some of the best wineries in the region, offering a wide range of varietals and experiences for wine enthusiasts. With over 100 vineyards and wineries, North Georgia boasts a rich wine culture that is worth exploring.

Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, tours, and special events at many of the wineries in the region. Most wineries have tasting rooms where visitors can sample a variety of wines and learn about the winemaking process. Some wineries also offer tours that take visitors through the vineyards and the winemaking facilities.

Many wineries in North Georgia also host special events throughout the year, such as wine festivals, live music performances, and food and wine pairings. These events provide a great opportunity for visitors to experience the local wine culture and enjoy a fun weekend or day trip.

Some of the most popular wineries in North Georgia include Yonah Mountain Vineyards, Wolf Mountain Vineyards, Kaya’s Winery, The Cottage Vineyard and Winery, Habersham Winery, and Crane Creek Vineyards. Each winery offers a unique experience, from breathtaking views to award-winning wines.

Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or a novice looking to explore the world of wine, North Georgia’s wineries have something to offer. With its beautiful scenery, rich wine culture, and welcoming atmosphere, North Georgia is the perfect destination for a wine-filled weekend or day trip.

Notable Wineries and Vineyards

North Georgia is home to a variety of wineries and vineyards that offer unique wines and beautiful scenery. Here are some notable wineries and vineyards that are worth checking out:

Yonah Mountain Vineyards

Yonah Mountain Vineyards is a family-owned winery that sits on a 200-acre estate in the shadow of Yonah Mountain. The vineyard produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and a variety of events throughout the year.

Website: http://www.yonahmountainvineyards.com/

Address: 1717 Hwy 255 S, Cleveland, GA 30528, United States

Habersham Winery

Habersham Winery is one of the oldest and most respected wineries in Georgia. The winery produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and a variety of events throughout the year.

Website: http://www.habershamwinery.com/

Address: 7025 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545, United States

Wolf Mountain Vineyards

Wolf Mountain Vineyards is a family-owned winery that sits on a 30-acre estate in the North Georgia mountains. The vineyard produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and a variety of events throughout the year.

Website: http://www.wolfmountainvineyards.com/

Address: 180 Wolf Mountain Trail, Dahlonega, GA 30533, United States

Tiger Mountain Vineyards

Tiger Mountain Vineyards is a boutique winery that produces a variety of wines, including Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and a variety of events throughout the year.

Website: http://www.tigerwine.com/

Address: 2592 Old 441 S, Tiger, GA 30576, United States

Three Sisters Vineyards

Three Sisters Vineyards is a family-owned winery that sits on an 184-acre estate in the North Georgia mountains. The vineyard produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and a variety of events throughout the year.

Website: http://www.threesistersvineyards.com/

Address: 439 Vineyard Way, Dahlonega, GA 30533, United States

The Cottage Vineyard and Winery

The Cottage Vineyard and Winery is a family-owned winery that sits on a 29-acre estate in the North Georgia mountains. The vineyard produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and a variety of events throughout the year.

Website: http://www.cottagevineyardwinery.com/

Address: 5050 US-129, Cleveland, GA 30528, United States

Cavender Creek Vineyards

Cavender Creek Vineyards is a family-owned winery that sits on a 35-acre estate in the North Georgia mountains. The vineyard produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and a variety of events throughout the year.

Website: https://cavendercreekvineyards.com/

Address: 3610 Cavender Creek Rd, Dahlonega, GA 30533, United States

Crane Creek Vineyards

Crane Creek Vineyards is a family-owned winery that sits on a 30-acre estate in the North Georgia mountains. The vineyard produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and a variety of events throughout the year.

Website: http://www.cranecreekvineyards.com/

Address: 1040 Crane Creek Rd, Young Harris, GA 30582, United States

Cartecay Vineyards

Cartecay Vineyards is a family-owned winery that sits on a 13-acre estate in the North Georgia mountains. The vineyard produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and a variety of events throughout the year.

Website: http://www.cartecayvineyards.com/

Address: 5704 Clear Creek Rd, Ellijay, GA 30536, United States

Fainting Goat Vineyards

Fainting Goat Vineyards is a family-owned winery that sits on a 32-acre estate in the North Georgia mountains. The vineyard produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and a variety of events throughout the year.

Website: https://www.faintinggoatvineyardsandwinery.com/

Address: 201 Vineyard Wy, Jasper, GA 30143, United States

Bear Claw Vineyards

Bear Claw Vineyards is a family-owned winery that sits on a 10-acre estate in the North Georgia mountains. The vineyard produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and a variety of events throughout the year.

Website: https://bearclawvineyards.com/

Address: 2281 Tennis Court Rd, Blue Ridge, GA 30513, United

12 Spies Vineyards

12 Spies Vineyards is a family-owned winery that sits on a 30-acre estate in the North Georgia mountains. The vineyard produces a variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and a variety of events throughout the year.

Website: https://www.12spiesvineyards.com/

Address: 550 Black Branch Rd, Rabun Gap, GA 30568, United States

Kaya Vineyard and Winery

Kaya Vineyard and Winery is a family-owned winery located in the North Georgia mountains. It is known for its picturesque setting and the production of a variety of wines, including Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. The winery is a popular destination for wine enthusiasts and tourists looking to experience Georgia’s burgeoning wine scene.

Website: https://www.kayavineyards.com/

Address: 5400 Town Creek Rd, Dahlonega, GA 30533, United States

Award-Winning Wines of North Georgia

North Georgia’s wineries have won numerous awards for their exceptional wines. Some of the most prestigious competitions where North Georgia wineries have been recognized include the San Francisco Chronicle and Los Angeles International Wine Competitions.

One example of an award-winning wine from North Georgia is the 2019 Cabernet Franc Reserve from Tiger Mountain Vineyards. This wine won a Gold Medal at the 2021 International Eastern Competition, where it was also named the best red vinifera in Georgia. The wine also won Gold at the 2021 Georgia Trustees Wine Challenge.

Another notable winery in North Georgia is Wolf Mountain Vineyards, which has won over 200 medals in national and international competitions. Their 2017 Claret won a Double Gold Medal at the 2020 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, and their 2017 Sparkling Brut won a Double Gold Medal at the 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

Additionally, Kaya Vineyard and Winery have received numerous accolades for their wines, including Double Gold Medals for their 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon and 2017 Petit Manseng at the 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

The Grapes and Varietals of North Georgia

North Georgia is home to a diverse range of grape varietals that are used to produce a variety of red and white wines. Some of the most popular grapes grown in the region include:

  • Chardonnay: A white grape that produces a full-bodied wine with flavors of apple, pear, and vanilla.
  • Merlot: A red grape that produces a medium-bodied wine with flavors of black cherry, plum, and chocolate.
  • Cabernet Sauvignon: A red grape that produces a full-bodied wine with flavors of black currant, tobacco, and cedar.
  • Malbec: A red grape that produces a medium to full-bodied wine with flavors of blackberry, plum, and spice.
  • Cabernet Franc: A red grape that produces a medium to full-bodied wine with flavors of raspberry, black cherry, and green pepper.
  • Viognier: A white grape that produces a full-bodied wine with flavors of peach, apricot, and honeysuckle.
  • Norton: A red grape that is native to North America and produces a full-bodied wine with flavors of blackberry, blueberry, and spice.
  • Sauvignon Blanc: A white grape that produces a crisp, refreshing wine with flavors of citrus, grass, and herbs.
  • Petit Manseng: A white grape that produces a full-bodied wine with flavors of honey, apricot, and pineapple.
  • Vidal Blanc: A white grape that produces a semi-sweet wine with flavors of pear, apple, and honey.
  • Pinot Blanc: A white grape that produces a light-bodied wine with flavors of apple, lemon, and almond.
  • Pinot Noir: A red grape that produces a light to medium-bodied wine with flavors of cherry, strawberry, and spice.
  • Cayuga: A white grape that produces a semi-sweet wine with flavors of peach, apricot, and citrus.
  • Blanc du Bois: A white grape that is resistant to disease and produces a crisp, refreshing wine with flavors of citrus and tropical fruit.
  • Muscadine Grapes: Native to the Southeastern United States, muscadine grapes produce a sweet wine with flavors of grape and honey.

North Georgia wineries often use a blend of grapes to create unique and complex wines. Some popular blends include Meritage, which is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and sometimes Petit Verdot or Malbec, and Syrah, which is a blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvedre.

Unique Experiences in North Georgia Wineries

North Georgia wineries offer a unique experience that goes beyond just tasting wine. Visitors can enjoy cave tours, flight tastings, food trucks, wine slushies, craft beer, and more. Here are some of the unique experiences that visitors can enjoy at North Georgia wineries.

Wine Caves

Many North Georgia wineries have wine caves that offer a unique experience. Visitors can explore the cool, dark caves and learn about the wine-making process. Some of the wineries that have wine caves include Wolf Mountain Vineyards and Kaya Vineyard and Winery.

Flight Tastings

Flight tastings are a great way to sample a variety of wines. Visitors can choose from a selection of wines and try them all in one tasting. Some wineries that offer flight tastings include Habersham Winery and Yonah Mountain Vineyards.

Food Trucks

Some North Georgia wineries have food trucks that offer a variety of delicious foods to pair with the wine. Visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful scenery. The Red Barn Cafe at Tiger Mountain Vineyards is a popular spot for foodies.

Wine Slushies

Wine slushies are a refreshing way to enjoy wine on a hot summer day. Many wineries offer a variety of flavors, including peach, strawberry, and blueberry. Some of the wineries that offer wine slushies include The Cottage Vineyard and Winery and Crane Creek Vineyards.

Craft Beer

Not everyone is a wine drinker, so some North Georgia wineries offer craft beer as an alternative. Visitors can enjoy a cold beer while taking in the beautiful scenery. Habersham Winery and Yonah Mountain Vineyards both offer craft beer.

Hiking

North Georgia is known for its beautiful hiking trails and waterfalls. Many wineries are located near hiking trails, making it easy to combine a wine tasting with a hike. Some wineries that are located near hiking trails include Montaluce Winery and Nacoochee Village.

Apple Orchards

North Georgia is home to many apple orchards, and some wineries offer apple picking as an activity. Visitors can pick their own apples and then enjoy a wine tasting. Mercier Orchards and The Cottage Vineyard and Winery both offer apple picking.

The Impact of Georgia’s Wine Industry

Georgia’s wine industry has been steadily growing over the years, contributing significantly to the state’s economy. According to a recent economic impact study conducted by the UGA Center for Agribusiness and Economic Development, Georgia wineries and vineyards contributed $81.6 million to the state’s economy, created more than 600 jobs, and generated more than $4.1 million in state and local tax revenue.

Compared to California, Georgia’s wine production is relatively small, but the state has been gaining recognition for its unique and high-quality wines. Georgia actually has a long history with vineyards, dating back to the 1700s. Today, there are more than 40 wineries and tasting rooms in the state, with the majority located in the northern part of Georgia.

Georgia wines are known for their unique flavors and are primarily made from muscadine grapes and fruits like peaches and berries. While some may associate Georgia wines with sweet varieties, there are also many dry and semi-dry options available.

The wine industry in Georgia has also had a positive impact on the state’s tourism industry. Many visitors come to Georgia’s wine country to experience the beautiful scenery and taste the local wines. In fact, a recent article in The New York Times highlighted the abundance of wineries located just north of Atlanta in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Overall, the wine industry in Georgia is a growing and important part of the state’s economy, offering unique and high-quality wines that are gaining recognition across the country.