KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (RFD News) — Tennessee agriculture leaders are spotlighting the state’s growing wine industry following the designation of a new American Viticultural Area (AVAs) in East Tennessee.
The state is now home to four federally recognized AVAs, with the newest designation known as the “Nine Lakes of East Tennessee.”
An AVA is a defined grape-growing region recognized for unique characteristics such as geography, climate, soil, and elevation that can influence how grapes grow and help shape the character of wine produced in the area.
State agriculture officials say the latest designation marks a major step forward for Tennessee’s wine and grape industry.
They also hope the new AVA designation helps generate additional tourism, wine sales, and agricultural investment across the region.
These “USDA Foods” are provided to USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) nutrition assistance programs, including food banks that operate The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), and are a vital component of the nation’s food safety net.
November 24, 2025 10:09 AM
·
Gary Hall, co-founder of Hollywood Impact Studios Rehabilitation, joined the program to discuss using agriculture to provide opportunities and mentorship for at-risk youth in Southern California.
November 21, 2025 02:25 PM
·
Sen. Roger Marshall discusses the Senate’s unanimous passage of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act and what expanded milk options could mean for students and dairy farmers. Industry groups say it is a win for student nutrition and dairy producers.
November 21, 2025 01:19 PM
·
Removing the 40% duty sharply lowers U.S. beef import costs on beef, coffee, fertilizer and fruit, and restores Brazil’s competitiveness during a period of tight domestic supply.
November 21, 2025 10:30 AM
·
Lower turkey and wheat prices helped ease Thanksgiving costs, but underlying farm-sector pressures remain significant.
November 19, 2025 11:06 AM
·
Retail competition and improved supplies are helping offset food inflation, pushing Thanksgiving meal costs modestly lower despite higher prices for beef, eggs, and dairy.
November 16, 2025 03:00 PM
·
