Dahlonega Winemaking Studio is an intimate, woman-owned small business in the lovely mountains. Ms. Toni is an excellent teacher who is passionate about her craft! What started as a hobby making wine for girlfriends became official in 2016. Toni relocated to wine country & the rest is history! I had no idea you could make wine naturally with a few simple ingredients. It's delicious and fun!
The studio accommodates up to 16 and parking is free. Reservations are required, bring your camera! Cute aprons and all supplies are provided. She even sells stylish swag such as sunglasses, bags and wine-making supplies!
You're spoiled for choice with the fruit experience selecting delicious, 100% fruit bases. Ex. watermelon, black cherry, peach, passionfruit, honeydew and mango. Or you can make herbal wine with healthy, anti-inflammatory dandelion, elderberry, hibiscus etc. You pick the flavor, alcohol content, dry or sweet. I chose a tasty pre-made blend of Strawberry Passionfruit but I want to try the sultry Blax (black cherry, black currant and blackberry). You can even make vegan wine!
Ms. Toni explained the fermentation process and how to back-sweeten wine. We left with a wine-making certificate and a half-gallon jug! It's drinkable in 6 weeks but it takes 12-16 weeks to balance & mature. Well worth the wait!
The Dahlonega class is $70 to make one half-gallon, the McDonough location costs $80. There's a monthly wine subscription ($49), a one-time gallon winemaking kit ($59), even a virtual class ($98). But I suggest Dahlonega. The unique, hands-on experience in a picturesque, scenic area is epic! You can also stop by North Premium Outlets or Amicalola Falls on the way back to the city.
Whether you want a private winemaking experience for 2, to celebrate an anniversary or birthday or if you deserve a solo treat, come and support this black owned, woman owned business. Cheers! read more