Tennessee Gets Fourth AVA

American Viticultural Areas are defined as grape‑growing regions recognized for their unique geography, climate, soils and elevation—factors that influence how grapes grow and shape the character of the wine they produce. Being designated as an AVA helps wine producers in that region communicate a wine’s origin and give consumers a clearer connection to where their wine is produced.
Tennessee has been home to three AVA’s…now make that four. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) announced this week the official designation of the Nine Lakes of East Tennessee as a federally recognized AVA. The Nine Lakes of East Tennessee AVA spans more than 4,000 square miles across portions of 14 counties in East Tennessee and includes 29 wineries and more than 230 acres of vineyards. The new AVA includes all of Jefferson and Hamblen counties plus parts of Cocke and Sevier county.
The designation is expected to boost tourism, attract agricultural investment and raise the visibility of Tennessee wines.