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During the late 1800's, vineyards were flourishing in Tennessee. At that time, it appeared that grape growing would become one of Tennessee's most important cash crops. However, Prohibition all but ended this promise in 1919. Within the last quarter of the 20th century, grape growing (and wine making) have seen a remarkable recovery.
The Tennessee Viticultural and Oenological Society (TVOS) was founded in 1973 by seven individuals. From this small beginning, TVOS membership has grown by leaps and bounds to include both amateur and commercial grape growers and winemakers. By 1982, several commercial grower and winery members of TVOS organized the Tennessee Farm Winegrowers Association (TFWA) to encourage and support this new agribusiness development in Tennessee. The two organizations work together to coordinate and advance the efforts of all Tennessee grape interests.
During the last decade, many Tennessee wineries have taken gold, silver and bronze regional and international awards for their fine wines. Tennessee wineries have a wine for every taste and occasion, from champagne to dry or sweet table wines to dessert wines. All wineries offer samples and most provide tours, but we suggest you call in advance to verify this and to secure reservations where necessary.
For more information on Tennessee Wineries or a free brochure, please call the Tennessee Department of Agriculture Market Development Division at (615) 837-5160 or write us at P.O. Box 40627, Nashville, Tennessee 37204 or e-mail to dan.strasser@state.tn.us.
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