Tennessee Wine Industry Expands with New ‘Nine Lakes’ AVA Designation

State agriculture leaders say the new “Nine Lakes of East Tennessee” designation could boost tourism and industry investment.

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.

Related Stories
According to the most recent version of the Household Food Security Report for 2022-2023, food insecurity is on the rise in the U.S.
While symbolic, the WTO’s youth hackathon reflects growing calls for creative approaches to food trade and security, with potential implications for reducing losses, expanding biofuel markets, and stabilizing grain flows.
Sen. Roger Marshall, a founding member and chairman of the Make America Healthy Again caucus, joined us with his thoughts on the commission’s latest report and the key ag-related issues.
Produce markets are in transition as fall approaches, with leafy greens and berries under pressure, while vegetables like celery, broccoli, and cauliflower are finding firmer ground.
How many burgers could you buy instead of a house?

Knoxville native Neal Burnette-Irwin is a graduate from MTSU where he majored in Journalism and Entertainment Studies. He works as a digital content producer with RFD News and is represented by multiple talent agencies in Nashville and Chicago.


LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Several fires have merged into Kansas’ largest active wildfire as crews continue battling shifting winds and dry conditions.
The Texas Agriculture Commissioner says crews are still working to contain fires while farmers and ranchers begin assessing damage.
Volunteer firefighters describe devastating scenes as crews continue battling multiple fires across the region.
Richlands Dairy & Creamery says its direct-from-farm model is helping connect consumers more closely to where their food comes from.
What started as a small field trip for fifth graders has grown into a multi-day agriculture education event serving nearly 2,000 students.
The two-year fellowship focuses on developing leadership and policy skills for the next generation of agriculture advocates.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Opry Live is the premier weekly broadcast and livestream of the Grand Ole Opry, featuring country music superstars, legends, and rising talent performing on stage in Nashville.
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.