My Favorite Distilleries, Wineries, and local Breweries

Grandaddy Mimm's Distillery – Blairsville, Georgia
Nestled in the heart of the North Georgia mountains, Grandaddy Mimm's Distillery is a must-visit destination in Blairsville for fans of fine spirits and rich Appalachian history. Named in honor of Jack "Mimm" McClure, a legendary moonshiner of the 1930s, this family-owned distillery celebrates the legacy of one of the region's most famous bootleggers.

At Grandaddy Mimm's, you'll find a range of handcrafted spirits, including moonshine, whiskey, and vodka, all made using traditional recipes and modern distilling techniques. Signature offerings include their smooth Mule Kickin’ 140 Proof Corn Whiskey, Apple Brown Betty Moonshine, and their award-winning Peach Whiskey. Each sip tells a story of heritage, quality, and craftsmanship.

The distillery itself is more than just a place to sample spirits—it’s an experience. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the distillation process, the history of moonshining in the Appalachian mountains, and the life of Jack McClure. The tasting room offers a chance to try their products and pick up bottles to take home.

Grandaddy Mimm's also regularly hosts live music events, food trucks, and seasonal festivals, making it a lively and welcoming gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.

Whether you’re a history buff, a spirits enthusiast, or just looking for a unique North Georgia experience, Grandaddy Mimm's Distillery offers something for everyone.

Crane Creek Vineyards – Young Harris, Georgia
Nestled in the picturesque Appalachian foothills of North Georgia, Crane Creek Vineyards in Young Harris offers an exceptional experience for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. This family-owned vineyard and winery, surrounded by rolling hills and breathtaking views, has been producing award-winning wines since its founding in 2000.

Crane Creek Vineyards is known for its stunning setting and high-quality, handcrafted wines. The vineyard specializes in a diverse range of varietals, including both classic and innovative blends that highlight the unique terroir of the region. Some of their popular selections include the dry, aromatic "Crane Creek Chardonnay," the full-bodied "Cabernet Franc," and their rich, fruity "Creekside Red." Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, there's a wine here to suit every palate.

The tasting room offers a relaxed atmosphere with sweeping views of the vineyard and mountains beyond, making it the perfect spot to savor a glass of wine. Guests can take a tour of the vineyard to learn about the winemaking process, from grape growing to fermentation, and explore the beautiful grounds. During your visit, you may even encounter local art displays or enjoy seasonal food pairings at their outdoor events.

Crane Creek Vineyards also provides a serene location for private events, from weddings to corporate gatherings, making it an ideal destination for celebrations amidst nature's beauty.

Whether you're visiting for a wine tasting, a scenic getaway, or a special event, Crane Creek Vineyards promises an unforgettable experience that combines Southern hospitality with world-class wines.

Come for the wine, stay for the view, and leave with memories that will last a lifetime!

Living Water Winery and Vineyard – Blairsville, Georgia
Tucked away in the serene mountain landscape of Blairsville, Living Water Winery and Vineyard is a hidden gem offering both breathtaking views and exceptional wines. This family-owned winery invites guests to experience a unique blend of Southern hospitality, scenic beauty, and handcrafted wines produced on-site.

Living Water Winery’s name reflects its commitment to the timeless art of winemaking, with a focus on crafting wines that capture the essence of the land. The vineyard offers a variety of wines, from dry reds to sweet whites, each made with the utmost care and attention to detail. Popular selections include their "Chardonnay," "Cabernet Franc," and "Vineyard Reserve," showcasing the natural flavors of the region’s grapes and the creativity of their winemakers.

The tasting room offers a warm, inviting atmosphere where visitors can sample wines while taking in the spectacular mountain views that surround the vineyard. The cozy setting makes it the perfect place for a relaxing afternoon with friends, family, or a special someone. Guests are also welcome to explore the vineyard, learning about the winemaking process and the unique growing conditions of the region that influence the flavor of the wines.

In addition to wine tastings, Living Water Winery hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including live music, food pairings, and seasonal celebrations. The winery’s tranquil environment also makes it an ideal spot for intimate gatherings or weddings, offering both a stunning backdrop and top-quality wines to complement any special occasion.

For those looking to enjoy the beauty of North Georgia and indulge in outstanding wines, Living Water Winery and Vineyard is a must-visit destination.

Come for the wine, stay for the views, and experience the spirit of the mountains at Living Water Winery!

Nestled just 10 minutes north of Blairsville in the picturesque Coosa Valley, Redtail Mountain Vineyard is a family‑owned gem offering a serene mountain escape in Georgia’s first Upper Hiwassee Highlands AVA . Founded by the Taylor family on land they’ve cherished for decades, this charming estate is named for the graceful red‑tailed hawks that soar overhead during the summer harvest . Visitors can sample hand‑picked, estate‑grown reds, whites, and rosés—like Grüner Veltliner, Norton, and Merlot—in a cozy tasting cellar or on scenic patios overlooking rolling vineyards . The vineyard’s warm, welcoming atmosphere is ideal for friends, families, and leashed dogs, with live music, artisan snack pairings, and wine flights adding to the relaxed charm . Open Thursday through Sunday, this award‑worthy mountain retreat is a must‑visit for anyone touring North Georgia wine country.

Bear Claw Vineyards – Blue Ridge, Georgia
Nestled in the scenic mountains of Blue Ridge, Georgia, Bear Claw Vineyards offers an exceptional wine-tasting experience with breathtaking views and award-winning wines. This family-owned vineyard is dedicated to producing high-quality wines in the heart of the Appalachian foothills, where the rich soil and climate provide the perfect environment for growing grapes.

Bear Claw Vineyards is known for its beautiful location and diverse selection of wines. Whether you're a red wine enthusiast or prefer a crisp white, this winery has something to offer every palate. Their collection includes popular varieties such as "Chardonnay," "Cabernet Sauvignon," and the signature "Bear Claw Red," a blend that perfectly reflects the flavors of the region. Each wine is carefully crafted using sustainable practices and techniques passed down through generations.

The tasting room at Bear Claw Vineyards provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where guests can sample wines while taking in sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. With an inviting outdoor patio and cozy interior, it’s an ideal spot for a relaxing afternoon with friends, family, or a romantic outing.

Beyond wine tastings, Bear Claw Vineyards hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including live music performances, food pairings, and seasonal festivals. The vineyard also offers wine club memberships, providing access to exclusive wines, special events, and discounts on future visits.

Whether you're looking for a tranquil spot to sip wine and take in nature's beauty or a unique venue for a private event or wedding, Bear Claw Vineyards provides the perfect setting.

Engelheim Vineyards in Ellijay, GA, is a must-visit destination nestled in the North Georgia mountains. This award-winning, family-owned winery offers estate-grown wines in a charming Bavarian-style tasting room with sweeping vineyard and mountain views. Guests can enjoy wine flights, live acoustic music on weekends, and delicious food pairings like charcuterie and desserts. The vineyard is pet- and family-friendly, with outdoor seating, picnic areas, and a welcoming atmosphere. Engelheim also hosts special events and private gatherings at its beautiful “Venue in the Vines,” making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and celebration.

Blairsville Brewing Company is a cozy, family-run craft brewery located at 68 Merchants Walk in picturesque downtown Blairsville, Georgia. Since opening, it has become a beloved gathering spot—offering a warm taproom and charming outdoor patio where locals and travelers alike can enjoy an impressive range of house-brewed styles, from crisp lagers and juicy IPAs to rich stouts and refreshing seltzers.  Dedicated to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, the brewery delivers both tried-and-true favorites and creative new flavors in beer flights or pints  The welcoming atmosphere extends to furry friends (dogs are welcome on the patio) and lively Friday evening live-music events that make it a fun place to unwind.  With its friendly staff, clean setting, and community-centered vibe, Blairsville Brewing is a top stop for beer lovers exploring the North Georgia mountains

Buck Bald Brewing’s Murphy taproom, located at 104 Tennessee Street in downtown Murphy, NC, is a friendly, family-run craft brewery that quickly became a local favorite after opening in 2018. With 12 taps pouring a rotating mix of flagship brews—such as Hollerin’ Man Pale Ale and Big Frog IPA—alongside Murphy-exclusive and adventurous styles like sours, stouts, and lagers, there’s something to delight every palate.  The spacious, inviting venue features cozy indoor nooks and a lively outdoor patio perfect for socializing, watching a game, or enjoying your canine companion (leashed pups are welcome, complete with water bowls and treats). Guests appreciate the casual, “Cheers”-like vibe and knowledgeable staff, often praising the quality of the beer and sense of community atmosphere . Open daily from noon to 8 pm, Buck Bald Brewing is the perfect spot to relax, sip a craft brew, and meet locals and travelers alike in the heart of Murphy

Nocturnal Brewing in Hayesville, NC is a vibrant, community-focused brewpub nestled in a renovated historic building just off the town square, opened in 2018. Brewmaster David Grace crafts a diverse lineup of ales—from traditional and fruity styles to edgy sours—using local and foraged ingredients, while their full kitchen turns out standout dishes like smash burgers, flavorful tacos, and house-made pizza . The spacious indoor-outdoor layout, including a dog-friendly gravel beer garden with heaters and water bowls, creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for families, locals, pets, and travelers alike. Visitors regularly praise the quality of beer and food—with one Redditor calling the kolsch and grisette “great,” and noting that “the food was outstanding” making Nocturnal a must-stop spot for craft-beer lovers exploring Western North Carolina.