Known for its scenic beauty (if not necessarily its vineyards), the Southeast is one of America's most popular vacation spots. With draws like the Blue Ridge Mountains, Savannah, Charleston, and a plethora of delicious food (think fried chicken, sweet tea, biscuits and gravy, and coconut cake), it's no wonder that the Southeast is a favorite of many. And wine lovers should rejoice—there are plenty of wonderful wineries that are worth the trip, whether it's across the country or simply up the road.
Location: Dahlonega, Georgia
With Tuscan style, "Sonoma experience," and plenty of Southern hospitality, this winery is an oasis of delicate, delicious wine and beautiful scenery. When you visit Montaluce, you'll be able to take a tour, do a tasting, explore the vineyards and admire the breathtaking views, or sample the fare at the on-site restaurant. The perfect wedding destination, Montaluce has four privately owned, Tuscan-style villas available for rent, as well as an event planning team.
Location: Braselton, Georgia
Located 45 miles northeast of Atlanta, this 200-acre vineyard boasts an exclusive, well-rounded experience. You're going to want to take advantage of the many different offerings Château Élan has available, whether that's taking the Signature Tour & Tasting, attending the Taste of Georgia event or weekly cooking class, participating in the Chef & Winemaker Dinner Series, or joining their wine club. Sip on the delicately sweet Muscadine wines while you nibble on a cheese plate in the winery's newly renovated restaurant, marc.
Location: Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled within the 8,000 acres of the Biltmore Estate (America's largest home), the Biltmore Winery offers complimentary and specialty tastings, a wine bar, and more. Feel the majesty of the estate as you take part in the Wine & Cheese Hour or Red Wine & Chocolate pairing in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you want an experience that is both stimulating and relaxing, where you can meander at your own pace and linger as long as you'd like, then a visit to the Biltmore Winery is for you.
Location: Arrington, Tennessee
Multiple tasting rooms and experiences await you at this beautiful vineyard located less than a half-hour south of Nashville. Choose from the rustic Tasting Lodge, the sleek Upstairs Tasting Room, the cozy-yet-refined downstairs Cellar Room, the welcoming Grand Barn, or the premier Wine Loft. You can sample a variety of white and red wines, listen to the free "Music in the Vines," and sit on the porch sampling cheese, crackers, and wine before your official tasting. Arrington Vineyards manages to be simultaneously charming, welcoming, and luxurious, and doesn't disappoint.
Because these wineries are located in multiple states, it’s impossible to see them all in one vacation (unless you're very ambitious). The best way to make the most of your visit is to map out your wine tasting route in advance or pick the one in the area that you know you'll be visiting. No matter which of these Southeastern wineries you choose to visit, you're sure to have a lovely time.
