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.

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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.


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