JASPER, Ga. — The burgeoning Georgia Wine scene is worth a second look for anyone who has dismissed the state’s wine production as nothing more than sweet and undrinkable.
Georgia indeed has a reputation for producing sweet table wines using local varietals such as muscadine and scuppernong grapes. Even as the wine scene had expanded in the past few years, these sweet wines have remained an ever-present force in the industry.
Historically, wine production was one of the initial enterprises in Georgia. While production waned over the years, it is having a bit of a resurgence.
In recent years, different varietals of grapes, such as Norton, have found their way to the hill. of north Georgia.
It is highly unlikely the Peach State will ever surpass a wine-producing powerhouse such as California. But, the wines produced in the state have improved in recent years.
One drawback to Georgia wines — and something to watch out for — is that many wineries import grapes or grape juice from popular wine-growing regions (mainly California). Conversely, some wineries such as Sharp Mountain Vineyards take pride in growing the grapes they use in their wine production.
Another drawback is the hight price. It is possible to buy many highly rated wines from California, France and Italy for a fraction of the cost of a bottle of Georgia wine.
Still, the Peach State has a gem on its hands. North Georgia is picturesque, particularly as the leaves begin to turn, and a wine scene is just one more reason to visit this part of the state.