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Amanda Winstead is a writer from the Portland, OR area with a background in communications and a passion for telling stories. Growing up, she spent summers in Maryland with her grandparents, walking sections of the Appalachian Trail or visiting historical sites in the area. More recently, she hiked the trail in full for the first time and fell absolutely in love, especially with its rich history. She was especially taken by the trail’s natural history and the way it links together the American story, from the site of George Washington’s inoculation of troops against smallpox to the last battlegrounds of Shay’s Rebellion. If you want to follow her writing journey you can find her on Twitter.
Wine, often associated with distant vineyards in California, France, or Italy, may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the Appalachian region. However, don’t underestimate the potential of this mountainous area when it comes to winemaking. Appalachia has a long and rich history of Wine production that dates back to the early European settlers who brought their winemaking skills with them.
In this article, we will share the lesser-known stories behind Appalachian wineries, explore unique flavors that define this often-overlooked region, and provide recommendations for those interested in exploring the Appalachian wine country.
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The Birthplace of American Wine
Before diving into the Appalachian winemaking scene, let’s step back in time to understand how the American wine culture was born. The roots of this tradition can be traced back to Virginia, which is the birthplace of the nation’s viticulture.
The first settlers in this lush land found native grapevines, which they decided to cultivate, hoping it would result in a similar quality wine they enjoyed back in Europe. However, they soon realized that these vines produced a wine of inferior quality compared to the European varieties they were used to.
Despite these setbacks, hopeful winemakers continued their pursuit to create the most flavorful wines. And in 1817, Dr. Daniel N. Norton from Richmond, VA finally found a wine-making process that produced high-quality wine with intense flavors that could also withstand a variety of climate conditions. The winemaker’s dedication and hard work marked the beginning of American winemaking, which would eventually spread across the United States, including through Appalachia.
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The Flavors of Appalachia
The Appalachian winemaking region has not only embraced the art of winemaking but also formed its own unique identity within the industry. Here are some of the well-known flavors you can find here:
Blue Ridge Mountain Wines
Nestled in the heart of Appalachia, the Blue Ridge Mountains produce wines with distinctive flavors. The area’s cool climate and particular soil create the perfect conditions for harvesting grapes, resulting in exceptional wines. Two well-known figures in the area are Ed and Charlie Shelton who started the Shelton Vineyard in 1994. Due to their dedication to increasing tourism, the area has attracted more businesses and new visitors flocking to taste the local wines.
Appalachian Ciders
Appalachia is not just about grape wines. The region also boasts a rich tradition of hard cider making. Crisp and refreshing, these apple ciders are a delight, often enjoyed alongside the wines. Each fall, the city of Hendersonville, hosts the North Carolina Apple Festival where farmers showcase their best ciders to locals and tourists, who are able to enjoy samples before purchasing their favorites.
These are just a few examples of the diverse flavors found in Appalachia. Each winery has its own story, and each drink offers a taste influenced by the land it was grown on.
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How Appalachian Wine Stands Out
Appalachian wine carries its own remarkable characteristics that set it apart from other wine regions across the United States and the world. Let’s look at some of the reasons why Appalachian wine is truly one of a kind:
- Terroir Influence: Appalachia’s diverse landscape and climate influence the flavor and aroma of its wines. For example, Biltner wines grown in the heart of the Appalachian mountain range benefit from warm summer days and cool evenings. This climate inevitably affects the yield and flavor of the grapes in the region. These intoxicating elixirs often exhibit a remarkable balance between fruitiness and acidity.
- Traditional Techniques: Many winemakers in the Appalachian region, such as Nicewonder Vineyards, adhere to traditional winemaking techniques of harvesting, blending with grapes from different vines, fermenting, and riddling has contributed to the rich and historical tapestry of the area’s viticulture. However, they are not afraid to experiment with new methods to create unique flavors and experiences for their customers.
Although winemaking is still a new endeavor for Appalachia compared to other parts of the world, it has quickly gained recognition for its quality and delicious flavors.
Prohibition Figures Who Halted Winemaking in the Appalachian Region
Similar to the rest of the United States, Prohibition had a significant impact on the Appalachian winemaking industry. The production and sale of alcohol were banned from 1920 to 1933, significantly impacting the region’s wine culture. Many wineries closed down or resorted to producing non-alcoholic products such as raisins and grape juice — even those that were in the birthplace of winemaking, such as the vineyard founded by Dr. Daniel N. Norton.
This was in part due to the help of some impactful figures who encouraged the banning of alcoholic beverages. Here are some key historical events and figures associated with Appalachia during the Prohibition era:
- Frances Estill Beauchamp: A native of Kentucky, Frances Estill Beauchamp was a prominent advocate for the anti-liquor crusade. She campaigned tirelessly for the prohibition of alcohol and was a leading figure in the temperance movement.
- Chap Osborne: A Prohibition Officer: The Appalachian region also had its share of enforcers during Prohibition. One notable figure was Robert Chapman “Chap” Osborne, a prohibition officer whose stories and adventures have become a part of local legend.
Even though Prohibition was a problematic time for Appalachian winemakers, the memory of winemaking never disappeared from the region. If anything, it served as inspiration for future winemakers after Prohibition ended.
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Plan Your (Affordable) Appalachian Wine-Tasting Adventure
Traveling can be an expensive activity, and if you want to go on a wine tour, you’ll need to save money on travel expenses so you can take home the best bottles. Here are some tips and recommendations for those interested in planning a budget-friendly road trip to experience it for yourself:
- Research Wineries: Before you go, research the wineries in the Appalachian region you’d like to visit. Vivino and Cellartracker area couple of apps that specialize in reviews of wines and wineries alike. Then, make a list of the ones you’re most interested in and see those locations. This will make your trip much smoother and help you avoid missing out on the best experiences.
- Budget and Accommodation: Set a realistic budget for your trip and look for cheaper accommodation options. For a more authentic experience, consider staying at local inns or bed and breakfasts such as the Charleston Inn or the Albemarle Inn in North Carolina. And if you are up for an adventure, try camping and exploring Appalachia’s great outdoors. KOA camping may be a great option for anyone considering.
- Taste and Learn: When visiting wineries, take your time and really experience the wine-making process. Also, be sure to take advantage of these establishments that offer guided tours of the grounds and factory, and tastings that will make your trip unforgettable. All six wineries on the High Country Wine Trail offer tours or tastings.
- Explore the Scenery: The Appalachian region is known for its breathtaking landscapes. Make pit stops and explore the area’s natural beauty.
There is so much to discover and experience in the Appalachian region when it comes to wine and culture. So, plan your trip and get ready to savor some of the finest wines and ciders this unique location has to offer. Who knows, you may even find yourself bringing home a few bottles of these hidden gems to enjoy with family and friends.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply curious about the history of American winemaking, the Appalachian region has a lot to offer. So, go ahead and begin exploring this vibrant part of the United States and discover the diverse flavors that make it stand out.
The post A Journey Through Appalachian Winemaking History appeared first on Appalachian History.
