California may get all the credit when it comes to wineries in the U.S., but Georgia is the mighty underdog we should all start paying attention to. With over 430 indigenous grape varieties, Georgia has a lot to work within the vino department—and they’re starting to get recognized for it.
In the past couple of years, Georgia has reached new heights, exporting over 86.2 million bottles of wine in 2018.
We'll show you our favorites so you can find the best winery in Georgia for your event:
Great wine pairs best with world-class food and exquisite views, and Montaluce is here to offer you this perfect trifecta. Much of Montaluce’s success comes from treating their business as an agricultural business first; the North Georgia mountains offer the perfect soil and sun exposure for a long growing season cultivating rich flavors and ultimately award-winning wines.
This love of agriculture offers the double benefit of an impeccable product and beautifully kept grounds, making this winery a wedding photographer’s dream. Here’s a recent review from their website to prove our point:
“As wedding photographers we love Montaluce! It's a stunning venue with endless areas to take images. We especially love the vineyards and architecture, not to mention how incredible the food is! The staff at the venue is very kind and helpful as well. We'd highly recommend Montaluce for your wedding!”
For your event, Montaluce offers private and semi-private spaces depending on your event size. The restaurant menu is full of exactly what you want with wine: ranging from tasty cheese and charcuterie boards if you’re doing a tasting to heartier flatbreads, bison burgers, and plates of pasta if you’re looking for a full meal.
(Follow Montaluce on Facebook and Instagram for more winery views.)
Next, we head to Yonah Mountain Vineyards, a 200-acre family winery located at the base of majestic Yonah Mountain. Another wedding location favorite, Yonah Mountain Vineyards is conveniently located just north of Atlanta, an hour and a half drive away.
Once again, the sandy soil and mountains provide the ideal setting for more than twenty planted acres of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and more. This winery is ideal for a large celebration or even a more casual day trip with friends.
Here’s a recent Yelp review from Roann to give you a little more flavor:
“Yonah Vineyards is absolutely lovely. I came for a girls' day and we enjoyed every single moment spent there ... My favorite wine I tried that day was the Young American Purple; it's a fruitier dry red with an oaky backbone. The staff was friendly and gave honest advice, and the owner even stopped by our table to say hi and see how our experience was going so far!
After we had our fill of wine we decided to explore the grounds and the views were breathtaking. Did I mention they have live music on the weekends!? Yonah is truly a gem and I can't wait to visit again!”
(Follow Yonah Mountain Vineyard on Facebook and Instagram for more dreamy winery content.)
Wineries might be on the rise in Georgia, but it’s important to pay respect to those that have been around for close to 40 years like Habersham Winery, one of Georgia's oldest and largest wineries.
Sitting in North Georgia, just south of Alpine Helen in Nacoochee Village, this winery’s cup runneth over with charm. Here you’ll find cozy tasty rooms, plus a gift shop with gourmet items including imported cheeses for a relaxing picnic.
Winemaker Charles Crespi oversees every detail of the winemaking process from crushing, to fermentation to aging to ensure each bottle is up to standard.
A recent Tripadvisor reviewer says it best:
“I highly suggest making a stop here if you enjoy great wine, great people, and great atmosphere. The charming staff and tasty wines keep us coming back.”
(Get Habersham Winery updates on their Facebook and Instagram Page.)
Hopefully, our three favorite wineries in Georgia have piqued your interest. If you’re looking to learn more about Georgia event venues, visit our directory, EventUp powered by Tripleseat to browse more options.