Discover the Rich Wine Heritage of the South When planning your Savannah getaway, consider venturing beyond the charming squares and historic district to explore the region's wine country.

Discover the Rich Wine Heritage of the South

When planning your Savannah getaway, consider venturing beyond the charming squares and historic district to explore the region's wine country. The American South is home to a diverse array of wine regions, each with its unique terroir, grape varieties, and production methods. In this article, we'll guide you through five Southern wine regions to visit on your next adventure.

1. Helen, Georgia: The Alpine-Style Wine Country

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of northern Georgia, Helen is a charming town that's been transformed into an Alpine-style village. This unique wine region is home to over 20 wineries, with many offering wine tastings, tours, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore the Helen Wine Country trail, which features a range of wine styles, from sweet to dry. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Kaya Vineyards for a wine and cheese pairing experience. ![image: georgia, north-georgia, helen, wine-tasting]

2. Dahlonega, Georgia: The Birthplace of American Wine

As the oldest wine-producing region in the United States, Dahlonega has a rich history and a thriving wine industry. This picturesque town in the Blue Ridge Mountains is home to over 10 wineries, many of which offer wine tastings, tours, and live music. Visit the Kaya Vineyards (yes, we mentioned them twice – they're that good!) for a wine and cheese pairing experience, or explore the Dahlonega Wine Country trail, which features a range of wine styles. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Wolf Mountain Vineyards for a scenic view of the surrounding mountains. ![image: georgia, north-georgia, dahlonega, wine-country]

3. Jekyll Island, Georgia: The Coastal Wine Region

Located on Jekyll Island, just off the coast of Georgia, this wine region offers a unique blend of coastal and island-inspired wines. Visitors can explore the Jekyll Island Wine Trail, which features a range of wine styles, from dry to sweet. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Turtle Inn for a wine and seafood pairing experience. ![image: georgia, coastal-georgia, jekyll-island, beach]

4. Blairsville, Georgia: The Mountain Wine Region

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of northern Georgia, Blairsville is a charming town surrounded by scenic mountains and rolling hills. This wine region is home to over 5 wineries, many of which offer wine tastings, tours, and scenic views. Visit the Mercier Orchards for a wine and cheese pairing experience, or explore the Blairsville Wine Country trail, which features a range of wine styles. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Braunstone Vineyards for a scenic view of the surrounding mountains.

5. Ellijay, Georgia: The Mountain Town Wine Region

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of northern Georgia, Ellijay is a charming mountain town surrounded by scenic mountains and rolling hills. This wine region is home to over 5 wineries, many of which offer wine tastings, tours, and scenic views. Visit the Mercier Orchards for a wine and cheese pairing experience, or explore the Ellijay Wine Country trail, which features a range of wine styles. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Braunstone Vineyards for a scenic view of the surrounding mountains.

Practical Info

• Hours: Vary by winery; check individual websites for hours and availability
• Fees: Vary by winery; most offer free or low-cost wine tastings
• Location Hints: Helen and Dahlonega are approximately 2-3 hours north of Savannah; Jekyll Island is approximately 4 hours southeast of Savannah; Blairsville and Ellijay are approximately 3-4 hours north of Savannah