Georgia is home to over 55 wineries sprawled throughout the state. Most of these are in the mountains in the northern part of the state. With so many to choose from, it may be a daunting task to narrow down which to try. If you are wondering, which are the best wineries near me? I’ve got you covered!
This guide goes into four of the best wineries in Georgia. Read about what each offers, unique experiences, and fun ways to explore the vineyards.
Monteluce Winery
Moneluce Winery is my personal favorite North Georgia Winery. Built to resemble a Tuscan villa, Monteluce is the perfect place to spend a quiet weekend and indulge in some delicious wine, unique dishes, and exquisite views.
It is one of the more upscale vineyards in the area, with some of the best cuisine.
The restaurant is known for its seasonal menu, made with fresh ingredients and specifically designed to pair with the vineyard’s wines. You can sit inside or on the covered terrace for lunch or dinner.
Either way, you will get stunning views of the lake and vines below. Reservations are recommended, especially on the weekends, as they get very busy.
Trattoria de Monteluce is the newest restaurant on the property. It focuses on Italian dishes that are all made in-house. Best of all, the restaurant has a large outdoor patio.
Experiences at Monteluce
Chef’s Table
For $125 per person, have your custom meals cooked and prepared in front of you by Monteluce’s very own head chef. Dinner consists of four courses and, of course, wine.
Deluxe Private Tasting
For $125 per person, you can enjoy a private tasting and tour of the property. Tasting comes with six types of wine paired with meats and cheeses.
Wine Hikes
Hikes are $65 per person or $85 if you want a private hike from Wednesday through Saturday, and guided winery tours are offered to those interested in learning more about the wine process.
Hikes are just under 2 miles long and end with a wine tasting at Trattoria de Montaluce restaurant.
Weddings at Monteluce
Looking for a romantic wedding venue? Monteluce makes for the perfect backdrop to any wedding or event.
Villa Rentals
Are you looking for a quiet weekend in the mountains? Monetaluce has several villas available for rent through VRBO.
With nightly rates starting at $350, villas have between 3 and 5 bedrooms and come with luxurious furnishings, private outdoor spaces, and vineyard views.
Address: 501 Hightower Church Road, Dahlonega, GA 30533
Hours: Sunday to Thursday from 11am-9pm; Friday to Saturday from 11am-10pm
Website: www.montaluce.com
Fainting Goat Vineyard and Winery
Fainting Goat is another popular vineyard, especially for families with kids. The winery has plenty of indoor seating in the main tasting room as well as an outdoor terrace and garden.
In addition, dozens of picnic tables are available along the property, and yes, goats! There are four fainting goats on the property as well as dogs. For this reason, the winery is dog friendly.
The wines here are made from French vines and come in various varieties. They can be ordered by the bottle or on tasting flights.
The winery also offers small appetizers if you get hungry. What I like most about this winery is that you can bring your food! We usually pack our own charcuterie board when we visit.
Experiences at Fainting Goat Winery
Live Music
The winery has live music from 1:30-5:30pm during the week. During the summer, they also have music on the weekend during sunset. Best of all, concerts are free!
Picnic in the Vines
You can reserve a picnic for two in the vineyard between May and October. The picnic comes prepared in a basket with a blanket and includes charcuterie items and wine.
Then, enjoy an intimate and romantic evening situated in the vines!
Address: 201 Vineyard Way Jasper, GA 30143
Hours: Monday to Saturday from 12pm-6pm; Sundays from 12:30pm-5:30pm
Kaya Winery
Kaya has one of the best views of all the North Georgia vineyards. Sitting 1,600 feet high on a hill, you have uninterrupted views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the vineyards below.
You can order wine by the glass or bottle or partake in a wine tasting. Once you finish, enjoy the view from the outdoor terrace, or stroll along the vineyard’s edge. The views and pictures here are some of the best around.
If you get hungry, Kaya offers a delicious lunch menu with appetizers, salads, and an assortment of sandwiches. You can also preorder picnic baskets for your event. There are three to choose from, and will be available for pickup in the Gift Shop for you to enjoy with your tasting.
Kaya Winery Experiences
Off-Road 4×4 Tour
For $75 per person, you can enjoy a tour of the 90-acre estate by car. Learn about the unique terrain and 16 acres of vines that produce the wines here. The tour takes about 1 hour and comes with a charcuterie board, bottle of wine, and souvenir glass.
Bordeaux Blending Experience
For just $75 per person, you can create your very own bottle of Bordeaux. First, you will learn about the Barrel Room’s winemaking process before creating your unique blend and custom hand-labeled bottle.
Weddings at Kaya
Kaya is another place that hosts weddings and rehearsal dinners. Again, couples can pick between indoor and outdoor locations and different types of menus made by their onsite chef.
Luxury Cottages
The vineyard has several Craftsman-style cottages on the property. The two-story cottages have open concept living, fireplaces, private porches, and luxurious master suites. Best of all, they are within walking distance of the winery.
Address: 5400 Town Creek Road Cleveland, GA 30533
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00am – 5:00pm, Sundays 12:30pm-5:00pm; Closed on Monday.
Website: www.kayavineyards.com
Cavender Creek Vineyard and Winery
A local farming family bought the property in 2006 and produced their first wine in 2009. Since then, the vineyard has exploded in popularity and now offers tastings daily in its large 4,000-square-foot tasting room.
The rustic feeling space includes indoor and outdoor patios, a covered porch, and a cozy indoor seating area.
One nice thing about Cavender Creek is that they do not just have wine on the menu. Instead, you can get wine slushies, craft beers, cocktails, and soft drinks if wine is not your thing. They also offer delicious mocktails for those who do not drink.
Cavender Creek Experiences
Stay at Cavender Creek
The 1820s cabin has been renovated into a large two-bedroom cabin that can be rented for a minimum of two nights. You can have a quiet weekend in the mountains with three covered porches, a full kitchen, fireplaces, and vineyard views.
You can rent out the Winemaker’s Cottage for a little more privacy!
Address: 3610 Cavender Creek Road Dahlonega, GA 30533
Hours: Sunday to Thursday from 12:30pm-6:30pm; Friday to Saturday from 12:30pm-7:00pm
Website: www.cavendercreekvineyards.com
Conclusion
Whether you are looking for a quiet getaway, romantic weekend, or day out with friends, these North Georgia Wineries are some of the best!
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