Cavender Creek Vineyard: Visit for the Day or Stay

Raymond and Donna Castleberry, retired teachers, founded Cavender Creek Vineyard in 2016. They began this beautiful winery one hand planted vine at a time.In 2015 Raymond and Donna decided to retire and sold the winery to Claire Livingston, who is a retired professor.

Claire is often present in the winery and enjoys the opportunity talking  to her patrons about history and her future vision for the winery. When visiting this winery, Claire does not mind educating you on the Norton grape, which was developed by Dr. Daniel Norton during the early 19th century from his vineyards in Virginia, USA. There are only three vineyards that produce Norton grapes in Dahlonega.  Norton grapes produce the deep tannins found in award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon and their red blend know as Black Jack. 

Claire and I discussing the history of the winery.

The Tasting Room

The Cavender Creek tasting room is a quaint cabin with true a Southern charm, boasting a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. At the Cavender Creek, you are treated with live entertainment and the wine stewards are eager to start you on your wine journey with wine flights, slushes and shots.  

The Cavender Creek Tasting Room

The best part of the winery are the Pasture Guardian Dogs, Tinker Bell and Tucker who are both Great Pyrenees. They are extremely lovable and friendly. 

One of the Great Pyrenees at the vineyard.

Wine Tasting Experience

The premium wine tasting includes seven wines for $18. They include two whites, one rose´, and four red wines. The Castleberry Red is my favorite! It yields notes of  blackberry and plum, full body, medium acid and tannin, with hints of pepper. This is a great choice for wine lovers of heavy and bold wines.

The Tasting Menu

Cavender Creek Tasting Room

The Cabin

After a flight of wine and a few bottles, you can take a few steps to a beautiful rustic cabin that comfortably sleeps six guests.  

The Cabin at Cavender Creek

If in Dahlonga and looking for a new wine experience, stop by Cavender Creek Vineyard and see Claire.