What’s your favorite thing about the Smoky Mountains? Is it the stunning views, the culture, or the enduring legacy of craftsmanship? While moonshine and whiskey have long been highlights of the Appalachian region, winemaking has its own storied history in the Smokies. The tradition continues to this day, with Tennessee Homemade Wines leading the legacy with pride and innovation. Join us on a walk through history as we explore winemaking in the Smokies:
Early Roots
The first winemakers in the Smoky Mountains were the early settlers who made their way to new, mostly unexplored lands in the region. With a moderate climate and fertile soil, Appalachian farmers began growing grapes in the 18th and 19th centuries. Grape varieties like muscadine and scuppernong thrived across local lands and were ripe for making homemade wines. The process was simple and involved following home recipes and family traditions.
Bounce Back From Prohibition
When prohibition began in the 1920s, it affected numerous industries, including winemaking. Legal restrictions were tough on winemakers, who could no longer rely on producing wine to make a living, causing many to have to shut down their businesses. While this occurred, some winemakers continued the tradition in secrecy, preserving the craft for future generations to later enjoy.
The late 20th century into the early 21st century brought a renewed interest in winemaking across Tennessee, including the Smoky Mountains. New wineries were established with advances in technology. Old world techniques blended with modern innovations to create wines that were not only popular today, but also honored the timeworn traditions of winemaking.
Tennessee Homemade Wines is proud to play a role in this history of winemaking in the Smokies to this day. Inspired by those before us and the character of the region, our bold blends capture the spirit of the Smokies.
The Perfect Place for Winemaking
The conditions in the Smoky Mountains are uniquely suited for producing award-winning wines. The area’s altitude, gentle temperatures, and variety of soils make it easier to grow fruits and other ingredients in abundance. When these geographical advantages merge with the passion, knowledge, and hard work of winemakers, the result is wines that are truly one of a kind!
Preserving Tradition
At Tennessee Homemade Wines, we embrace this history of winemaking in the Smokies while pushing the boundaries of innovation and creativity. We use fresh fruits like grapes, apples, strawberries and peaches to craft distinct wines overflowing with tasty flavors. By focusing on quality and authenticity, we pay homage to the generations of winemakers before us while expanding the footprint of winemaking in the Smokies.
The culture of winemaking in the Smokies is one of perseverance, pride, and passion. Whether you’re in Gatlinburg tasting sweet fruit wines or enjoying a bottle back home, you’re a part of a long lasting tradition that lives on to this day. We encourage you to visit us and take part in appreciating the beauty, taste, and artistry of the Smoky Mountains!
Join us for an experience that celebrates the history of winemaking in the Smokies! Take a look at our wines and start thinking about the flavors you’ll want to try at Tennessee Homemade Wines.
