Did you know we have wineries in Northeast Georgia? In the Northeast Georgia mountain region, there are several award-winning wineries and vineyards. And, where wine grows, delicious food usually follows. Take a weekend to visit Northeast Georgia’s wine country. You won’t be sorry!
Northeast Georgia’s Wine Country Starts in Helen
This beautiful small town on the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains resembles Germany’s Bavaria region, and the town has modeled itself accordingly. Helen has a plethora of things to do and see, not just for wine exploration. But, since we’re talking about wine, let’s explore what Helen has to offer as far as wine experiences go.
If you want to have a guided tour and a designated driver, VIPSouthern Tours is a great place to start. They offer full and half-day packages, with pick-ups at various locations in the area, including Helen. The price of the tour covers everything including transportation, guide, and tastings. If branching out on your own is more your style, it’s really easy to start with a “home base” like Helen, then take a look at the region’s wineries map and plan your day from there.
Prep for the Day
When we venture out on an excursion like this, we like to make sure we pack a nice picnic lunch/snacks that pair well with wine. Meats, cheeses, olives, crackers and fruit are all good options. Pack the utensils you need, and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. And, please be safe: have a designated driver!
Our Favorites:
Habersham Winery – 7025 S Main St, Helen.
Habersham is one of Georgia’s oldest and largest wineries. They have been producing wines since 1983, producing unique whites such as their Signet (a blend of Vidal and Chardonel grapes), their popular Traminette, and their best-selling red blend, Scarlett. The wines are reasonably priced and delicious.
Frogtown Cellars – 700 Ridge Point Dr, Dahlongea. Frogtown also has a tasting room in Helen – 7601 South Main Street.
The proprietors started Frogtown in 1998, and gave the winery it’s name from the “Frogtown District” in Lumpkin County – a rich viticultural area with some stellar mountain views. Frogtown cellars is a rising star in the wine world, winning awards and notice year after year. When you’re there, try the Touriga – a dry red with a beautiful aroma, and the Frogtown Norton – the only red wine grape indigenous to the United States.
CeNita Vineyards & Winery – 591 Dock Dorsey Rd, Cleveland.
CeNita Vineyards is the new kid on the block, with their first plantings in 2007 and 2008. Their tasting room opened in 2015. Check out the Vidal Blanc and Chambourcin Estate wines – they are wonderful. CeNita has a lovely, friendly feel that we think is pretty awesome, so take your time here!
When you’re finished….
When your tour of Northeast Georgia’s Wine Country is complete, find your way back to Helen for some German faire! Old Heidelberg is in a gorgeous building built in a traditional German style, and their menu features dishes like Sauerbraten, Schnitzel, and a huge variety of German beers.
WE LOVE WHERE WE LIVE!
Get to know Northeast Georgia. We service several counties in the region, all a short drive to wine country! We consider ourselves local experts, and we’ll find you exactly what you’re looking for. Contact us today!