Hiwassee AVA in Georgia and North Carolina

Hiwassee AVA in Georgia and North Carolina

June 27th, 2015

Hightower Creek Vineyards
Upper Highlands Hiwassee

Hightower Creek Vineyards
Fire Pit

This week we were travelling through Georgia on our way back to North Carolina.  We decided to veer off the path and go to the first American Viticulture Area (AVA) for the state of Georgia, the Upper Highlands Hiwassee.  Just over two hours from Atlanta, you'll find the Upper Highlands Hiwassee which crosses over the Georgia state line into North Carolina.  The AVA was designated in July of 2014.

Hightower Creek Vineyards
Tasting Room

Being early in the week, many of the wineries in the area were closed.  However, we lucked out and found Hightower Creek Vineyards (www.HightowerCreekVineyards.com) open.

Hightower Creek Vineyards
Upper Highlands Hiwassee

We met with both the owners,  Liz and Sanford Green who planted the vineyard in 2009 and opened their doors in May 2012.  Their son Travis is their wine maker, and they're still experimenting to see what types of grapes will grow well in their area.  It's a true family business, and Liz and Sanford were quick to mention the help from their friends to make the winery successful.

Hightower Creek Vineyards
Bike Stop

While only open for three years, two of their wines had won awards at the Finger Lakes Competition.  So award winning wines in just a few years is a sign of a good future.

Barnstormer Winery

 Click Here for our YouTube Video on Barnstormer Winery

Which brings me back to the Finger Lakes region.  We have a new video for you to see about Barnstormer Winery on Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes.  They source their grapes from the best growers and produce their own wines.  This boutique winery is especially proud of their Rieslings, and they have some wonderful reds too.  Here's a quick intro to what you'll find when you visit their tasting room. And they also have a couple local beers on tap for those who love craft brews.