Georgia Wine Highway: An Event Guide
Prepare for the vino vacation of your dreams with the Georgia Wine Highway event! This annual month-long event showcases the many excellent vineyards and wine producers all around Georgia.
Sponsored by the Georgia Wine Producers, the event allows visitors to taste some of the best wines in the state.
The North Georgia region is known for its tasty vintages, so booking a cabin in this region near Ellijay or Blue Ridge will put you in perfect proximity to many of the participating vineyards.
Use this comprehensive guide as you begin to plan your memorable North Georgia getaway for the Georgia Wine Highway event!
North Georgia Wine Country
Photo Credit: Paul Brennan
While North Georgia may not be the first place to come to mind when thinking about North American wine country, this mountainous region actually has a long and successful history of making delicious wines.
With over 40 vineyards in the region and in easy driving distance from Atlanta, the wine industry has become hugely important to the tourism sector in North Georgia. Travelers from around the world visit Georgia wineries to sip delicious wines while surrounded by mesmerizing views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The towns of Blue Ridge and Ellijay are fantastic bases for anyone seeking a wine getaway in North Georgia. Surrounded by numerous world-class vineyards and wineries, a stay here is perfect for those interested in participating in the month-long Georgia Wine Highway event.
This annual event showcases local wineries and allows travelers to sample wines from each location, providing a true all-around experience for wine enthusiasts.
About the Georgia Wine Highway Event
Photo Credit: Rostislav_Sedlacek
North Georgia has a wealth of great festivals and events year-round, and this one should be at the top of your list!
The Georgia Wine Highway is an annual month-long event put on by the Georgia Wine Producers organization that happens each March. Every year, dozens of North Georgia wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms participate in the event, which allows travelers to visit each location and taste wines for a considerable discount.
The Georgia Wine Highway Passport, a $75 purchase valued at $600, allows a free tasting at the participating wineries. The passport also includes a souvenir wine glass.
Look no further if you are wondering what to expect from the Georgia Wine Highway. This comprehensive guide is the perfect place to get all the information you need to make this event safe, successful, and fun.
The Georgia Wine Highway Passport
Photo Credit: opengeorgiawine
Expect endless fun, exciting entertainment, and of course, delicious wine! The Georgia Wine Highway is the perfect event for wine lovers visiting Georgia in March. Whether you are a wine connoisseur or a casual enjoyer, there is truly something for everyone.
The wine passport allows one full glass or four tasting glasses at each participating vineyard. The passport can be shared, so depending on your group and plans, this can be a good way to save money. Some locations will provide snacks, either for purchase or as a complimentary gift.
Tips and Tricks
There are a few basic tips and tricks to keep in mind that will allow you to enjoy your North Georgia wine getaway. Keep the following in mind as you plan your Georgia Wine Highway itinerary!
Limit Your Daily Visits
Slow and steady wins the race to get the most out of the Georgia Wine Highway! Trying to visit every participating venue during a weekend trip only means you will be rushed, drunk, and miserable.
Instead, limit your visits to 3-4 vineyards daily and take your time at each. Savor these award-winning wines, enjoy the views, and take it easy.
Select a Designated Driver
A designated driver is a good idea whenever you know you will be drinking. Although the tasting glasses are small and each vineyard only includes one glass of wine, you may not be fit to drive after a full day of trying wines.
Additionally, driving on the narrow and curvy roads of the North Georgia mountains can be difficult on a good day. Plan ahead and select a person in your group who can stay sober and get everyone home safely.
Dress for the Day
Comfort is key for your vineyard visits! March is still quite chilly in North Georgia, and many vineyards have both indoor and outdoor seating areas. A warm jacket or sweater is essential if you want to take advantage of the beautiful views and sit outside. A raincoat is also a good idea if any showers pop up throughout the day.
You might be doing a good bit of walking as you explore each location, so you will appreciate comfortable shoes. Something like tennis shoes or boots will keep your feet dry, warm, and happy during your Georgia Wine Highway excursions.
Remember the Essentials
Avoid wasting time and having to return to your cabin to get something you forgot! You need to bring a few essentials for your day at the vineyards.
First and foremost, your government-issued photo ID is a must. The minimum drinking age in Georgia is 21 years old, and you will be asked to provide proof of age. A driver’s license is sufficient, or a passport if you are from out of the country.
Another must-have is your Georgia Wine Highway Passport! This is your ticket to the included glass of wine or wine tasters. You have the choice of a physical passport, which can be purchased at the participating venues, or you can opt for a mobile passport which can be purchased online. The cost is the same for each, including the souvenir glass.
Finally, having some cash on hand is not a bad idea. While your drinks won’t cost you anything, you may wish to tip servers for excellent service or purchase snacks to pair with your wine. Most locations will take a credit card if you want to buy a few bottles of wine to bring home with you.
Eating at the Georgia Wine Highway
Finally, don’t forget to eat! Start your day with a nutritious breakfast at your cabin before heading out for your wine tastings, and continue snacking throughout the day. There are plenty of great dining options in Ellijay and Blue Ridge to fill up between tastings.
Drinking on an empty stomach can take out even the savviest wine connoisseur! To avoid feeling woozy or getting tipsy too fast, eating is key! You’ll also need to stay hydrated, so pack a water bottle and refill it throughout the day.
Participating Wineries and Vineyards
Photo Credit: cartecayvineyards
The winegrowers of Georgia are getting ready for the biggest event of the year! The Georgia Wine Highway 2023 event is scheduled to take place from March 1st to March 31st.
While the list of participating vendors is still being confirmed and will be updated soon, you can assume that it will be similar to last year and consist of dozens of incredible North Georgia vineyards and wineries.
There are over 45 vineyards and wineries in North Georgia that participate in this exciting event. You can peruse some of the vineyards and wineries below that were part of the 2022 Georgia Wine Highway and begin planning your 2023 itinerary.
- Cartecay Wine & Craft - Blue Ridge. 598 East Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA
- Georgia Wine Depot. 678 E. Main Street, Blue Ridge, GA
- Buckley Vineyards. 708 Henry Evans Rd, Ellijay, GA
- Cartecay Vineyards. 5704 Clear Creek Rd, Ellijay, GA
- Cartecay Wine & Craft - Ellijay. 19 South Main Street, Ellijay, GA.
- Chateau Meichtry. 1862 Orchard Lane, Talking Rock, GA
- Engelheim Vineyards. 127 Lakeview Rd, Ellijay, GA
- Grapes & Ladders. 2317 Highway 382, Ellijay, GA
- Ott Farms and Vineyard. 230 Henry Evans Rd, Ellijay, GA
- Reece’s Cider Co. 9110 Highway 52, Ellijay, GA
Events throughout the month will feature live music by artists like Robbie Litt, culinary events, and wine tours.
Sip and Stay in North Georgia
Prepare for the getaway of a lifetime when you head to North Georgia for the annual Georgia Wine Highway event.
Throughout March, you can use your wine passport for a complimentary wine tasting throughout Georgia and enjoy a wine-centric vacation at your vacation cabin rental in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains!