Hillside Winery brings high-quality winemaking to the heart of the Smoky mountains. With excellent wines, this is a must-stop for everyone who enjoys a glass of the fermented beverage.
The selection of wines at Hillside Winery is heavily influenced by Italian tradition, with dry, semi-sweet and sweet selections like those you’d find in the Old Country. Although many of these are sold under the names more commonly used over here (e.g. Zinfandel and Sangiovese), the winery notes the proper Italian terms (e.g. Primivito and Chianti) when appropriate and still follows traditional recipes. Try one of the traditional selections, and you can almost imagine being in a far-off vista as you look out at the Smoky Mountains that rise up around you.
Complementing the Italian selections is a solid selection of bubblies, including both classic ones and more creative selections. Some of the more creative vintages come not from grapes but are made of other fruit, like raspberries, cranberries and similarly delectable fresh selections.
Hillside Winery is able to offer such a wide selection of wines partly because the business doesn’t actually grow any grapes. Instead, the various types of grapes are purchased from local growers and then pressed. In an average year, Hillside will press over 425 tons of grapes and other berries.
Because the grapes are all purchased from area vineyards, you can trust that these are authentic Tennessee wines. From fruit to bottle, the whole process takes place right here in the Smoky Mountains.
A few of our favorite wines at Hillside Winery include:
Sauvignon Blanc
A light and bright blend, Sauvignon Blanc is perfect for warm Tennessee summers. The hints of honey and melon pair perfectly with many warm-weather dishes.
Don Rosso
Known as a “spaghetti red,” Don Rosso is a staple at many Italian tables. This specially crafted version goes particularly well with a wide range of foods.
Cantina Blanca
A rich and aromatic red, Catina Blanca is made in the traditions of an Italian Muscato and a Tennessee Muscadine. Pour, swirl, sniff and indulge. Your senses won’t be disappointed.
Poinsettia
A holiday-themed cranberry wine, Poinsettia offers a grown-up take on the healthy berry’s juice. Drink up and pour another glass, because this batch helps support the American Cancer Society.
Black and Blue
A wine made from blackberries and blueberries, Black and Blue is as tasty as it is healthy. A glass is full of antioxidants.
To experience these wines, visitors age 21 and older are welcome to come for a tasting and tour. Sip a few different selections when you visit, and take home whichever are your favorites. Both the tastings and tours are free.
Insider Tip:
Hillside Winery isn’t the only winery in the region. Check out the Rocky Top Wine Trail, and sample at each of the five partnering wineries.