By Katie Northcott, News Director
On Tuesday, May 19, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture issued the following press release:
Tennessee is now home to four American Viticultural Areas (AVA), further establishing the state as an emerging leader in the Southeast’s wine industry.
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) announces the official designation of the Nine Lakes of East Tennessee as a federally recognized AVA.
“The designation of the Nine Lakes of East Tennessee AVA is a major advancement for Tennessee’s wine and grape industry,” Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt said. “This recognition highlights the unique qualities of East Tennessee’s landscape and climate while creating new opportunities for farmers, wineries and rural communities. We’re proud to support an industry that contributes to Tennessee’s agricultural economy.”
Research supporting the AVA application was funded in part through TDA’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, which invests in projects that strengthen the competitiveness of Tennessee‑grown specialty crops, including wine grapes.
An AVA is a defined grape‑growing region recognized for unique geography, climate, soils and elevation—factors that influence how grapes grow and shape the character of the wine. These designations help producers communicate a wine’s origin and give consumers a clearer connection to where their wine is produced.
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. Located within the Valley and Ridge Province, the region is marked by rolling ridges, valleys and lakes along the Tennessee River. The region’s geology, soils, elevation, and climate create ideal conditions for a long growing season and diverse grape varieties.
The designation is expected to boost tourism, attract agricultural investment and raise the visibility of Tennessee wines. Industry leaders note that the Nine Lakes region already serves as a hub for wineries and vineyards, with significant potential for continued growth and visitor engagement.
“This AVA designation gives our region a stronger identity in the marketplace,” said Rick Riddle, owner of The Winery at Seven Springs Farm in Union County and president of the Appalachian Region Wine Producers Association. “It helps tell the story of where our grapes are grown and why that matters. It not only validates the quality of our wines but also positions East Tennessee as a destination, bringing more visitors, supporting local businesses and creating new opportunities for growth.”
Wineries choosing to use the Nine Lakes of East Tennessee AVA on their labels must meet federal requirements, including sourcing at least 85 percent of their grapes from within the AVA and obtaining a Certificate of Label Approval. The effective date for use of the designation is April 23, 2026.
For more information about Tennessee agriculture and the state’s wine industry, visit the TDA Viticulture webpage. Wineries planning to add the AVA to their labels should contact the Tennessee Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau.
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