It’s finally the holiday season! The Thanksgiving season has already passed us by, and just when I “thought” I was caught up, I found another speed bump in the way, and therefore, I did not get to the original plan of posting this in time for Thanksgiving. And while I am at it, I am just going to get to my posts when I get to them. I have way too much going on to pressure myself to post 3 blogs a week, especially if I want them to be good! Anyway, I am catching up and I wanted to at least post this while the rest of the holiday seasons were coming up. And I specifically wanted to post the “Buttered And Boozed” series of posts because it is the time of year that friends and families from all over are traveling to see one another for the holidays. It is also a time where when others do travel to see one another and they get tired of sitting at home, they want to get out and go somewhere for a drink and/or some food. If you are visiting here in Union County for the holidays, then here are some of the places that you or friends might like to go where both food and alcohol are available and where you can get “buttered”(eat food) and “boozed”(grab a drink). And by the way, these aren’t just places for the holidays. It’s for all year long! NOTE: Some establishments will have more or less photos than others depending on photos that I personally have available.
Odom Springs Vineyards
Odom Springs Vineyards truly offers a fantastic wine experience with a welcoming atmosphere, amazing views, and exceptional hospitality. Truly, it is a favorite of mine! The vineyard property, located about 9 miles west of Downtown Blairsville, is owned by siblings Shari Odom Donahue and Steve Odom. Growing up on the property, they realized their dream of one day opening their very own vineyard and winery on the home front, even before the sale of alcohol was permitted in Union County in 2010. In 2013, jus 3 years after alcohol sales passed in Union County, the dream of Odom Springs Vineyards became a reality, and they opened their doors to the public. Ever since then, they have seen their business expand and just recenty(November 2024) opened up a new tasting room in Downtown Blairsville, offering another chance to enjoy their wines in another charming setting. Both locations are a place where visitors are treated like family. Whether you’re greeted by Shari, Glenna, Carrie, or Chantelle at the main vineyard, or by Jennifer at the Downtown location, you’ll feel right at home! I know that I have since my very first visit! As a matter of a fact, this place is even so welcoming and friendly that they welcome your pets as well! Do keep in mind, however, they must be on a leash and be friendly with cats as well because the vineyard is also home to the Odom Family cats! And I promise, the cats are harmless and friendly, so no worries there! Kids are also welcome, but I will just go ahead and give the friendly reminder and say in the friendliest way that I can…Remember that this is a winery and not a playground! The staff stays busy with catering to and taking care of its customers, so if you’re bringing your kids, just be sure that you keep them close by with your eyes on them and make sure that they are not running around! You’ll thank me later! The staff provides a friendly introduction to the wines, many of which are named after Appalachian traditions or have fun, unique stories behind them. After your tasting, you can choose your wine and enjoy it with a snack or a charcuterie board on the spacious outdoor patio, which boasts beautiful mountain and pond views. The vineyard attracts a diverse crowd, with visitors from all over the country and beyond. It’s not unusual to meet new people and make lasting connections. A quirky highlight is the bathroom, which women particularly love for its cute and photo-worthy decor(a great conversation starter)! As you finish your wine, be sure to browse the vineyard’s T-shirts, crafts, and souvenirs available for sale. Lastly, I will also say that this has been a popular spot for engagements, weddings, baby and wedding showers, and more! In addition to the main vineyard, and as already mentioned, the Downtown Blairsville tasting room is conveniently located near dining and shopping options, making it a great place to visit. Hosted by Jennifer, the downtown tasting room offers the same warm hospitality and great experience. The tasting room’s menu includes snacks like a cheese board, Wasa crackers, Hens crackers, a jelly jar, and water, all perfect for pairing with your wine. One of the standout wines at Odom Springs is the Homemade Sin, a Chambourcin and Vidal blend. It’s a medium-bodied wine with subtle sweetness, hinting at cherry and strawberry flavors. It’s also earned a Bronze Medal from the Georgia Trustees Wine Challenge. My personal favorite snack to enjoy with the wine is the addictive Two Country Hens Fires Creek crackers(Trust me, you’ll love them)! If you’re lucky, you might even meet some notable visitor like T-Pain, who stopped by to grab a case of wine! Lucky me was even able to introduce myself and take his cases of wine out(A moment I’ll never forget)! Whether you’re visiting the vineyard or the downtown tasting room, Odom Springs Vineyards is an experience you don’t want to miss. I promise!
Vineyard Hours: Monday(11 A.M.-3 P.M.); Tuesday(Closed); Wednesday-Friday(11 A.M.-5 P.M.); Saturday(11 A.M.-6 P.M.); Sunday(1 P.M.-6 P.M.)
Downtown Tasting Room Hours: Fall Hours-Tuesday-Sunday(12 P.M.-6 P.M.); Spring-Fall Hours(12 P.M.-7 or 8 P.M. depending on Downtown events)
Contact Numbers:
Vineyards Tasting Room: 706-745-3094
Downtown Tasting Room: 706-487-4265
Website: Welcome to Odom Springs Vineyards, Winery, Tasting Room and Lodge. – Home
Living Water Winery & Vineyard
Living Water Vineyard is the perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy exceptional wine, breathtaking views, live music, food trucks, and a variety of drinks in a lively atmosphere. Since opening in late 2022 to early 2023, it has quickly become a favorite spot for both locals and visitors, offering a unique experience that keeps people coming back. The vineyard offers an impressive selection of wines, but two stand out as personal favorites. The Cabernet Sauvignon is a dry red wine, with just the right balance of plum and cherry flavors, making it a go-to for many. For those who prefer a white, the Apfelwein is a refreshing choice, with its smooth, tart taste and a touch of sweetness that’s just right and not overpowering. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking for a great drink, Living Water Vineyard has something for everyone, including a wide range of cocktails and beers for non-wine drinkers. One of the most remarkable aspects of this vineyard is its location and the stunning view. While many local establishments close early, Living Water stays open later than the others, offering guests the chance to relax and enjoy the best sunset view in the area. The view truly lives up to its reputation, providing a perfect backdrop to a great evening out. Food is never a problem here, as there is usually a food truck on-site offering delicious options. Many of these trucks come from the Atlanta area, bringing a variety of tasty choices that complement the vineyard’s offerings. Whether you’re in the mood for a light snack or something more filling, the food trucks will not disappoint. After grabbing your drink and food, you’ll have plenty of seating options to choose from. Enjoy the cozy couches or futons by the bar, or head outside to the spacious patio. The sky deck and lower deck provide even more seating, with each location offering fantastic views and a comfortable atmosphere. No matter where you sit, you’ll likely be treated to some live music, with talented performers regularly taking the stage. Past acts include Tawana Reynolds, a former contestant from The Voice. The music is always high quality, creating the perfect vibe for any occasion. For those who enjoy a little friendly competition, Living Water Vineyard also hosts music bingo, where guests can enjoy fun games while dancing along to the tunes. It’s a lively and engaging activity that adds to the overall fun. If you have kids with you, they’ll stay entertained with arcade games available on-site, making it a great place for the whole family to visit. With great drinks, food, music, and a welcoming atmosphere, Living Water Vineyard is a must-visit spot for anyone in the area. Whether you’re relaxing with a glass of wine or enjoying a night out with friends and family, this vineyard has something for everyone. This, too, is one of my favorite places to go!
Hours: Monday-Thursday(12 P.M.-7 P.M.); Friday-Saturday(12 P.M.-8:30 P.M.); Sunday(1 P.M.-7 P.M.)
Contact Number: +1 832-270-3212
Website: Living Water Winery & Vineyard
Paradise Hills, Winery Resort & Spa
Paradise Hills Winery Resort and Spa offers a perfect blend of luxury, nature, and relaxation. Situated on 42 acres of stunning mountain ridge, this family-owned winery has been delighting visitors since 1988, offering not just award-winning handcrafted wines but also a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a fun family retreat, or a peaceful solo experience, Paradise Hills has something for everyone. The winery itself is located on a picturesque mountain property, where each cabin is surrounded by the serene beauty of cascading hills, providing a sense of privacy and tranquility. Many of the cabins are just a short walk away from the resort’s amenities, including the wine-tasting room, resort lodge, bistro, and European-style spa. The atmosphere is perfect for those looking to unwind and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of North Georgia. One of the highlights of Paradise Hills is its boutique winery, where visitors can sample a variety of handcrafted wines. The wines, made from grapes grown on the estate, have earned numerous awards, showcasing the winery’s dedication to quality. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a casual drinker, the tasting room provides an excellent setting to enjoy the fruits of the winery’s labor, with a knowledgeable staff ready to guide you through their selection. After enjoying a glass of wine, take some time to visit the resort’s European-style spa, which offers a range of premium services including massages, body treatments, and facials. The spa is designed to create a serene environment inspired by nature, offering guests the ultimate in relaxation. The entire resort is designed with privacy and tranquility in mind, making it the ideal spot for those looking to escape into nature without sacrificing luxury. The resort also features a charming bistro, where guests can enjoy delicious meals paired with local wines in a cozy, intimate setting. Whether you’re looking for a light snack or a full meal, the bistro offers a variety of options that complement the wines produced on-site. The dining experience is just one more way that Paradise Hills combines relaxation and indulgence. What truly sets Paradise Hills apart is its exceptional staff. Known for their top-tier customer service and hospitality, the team at Paradise Hills ensures that every guest feels welcome and cared for. Whether you’re visiting for a wine tasting, a spa day, or a weekend getaway, the staff’s attention to detail will make your experience even more memorable. For those planning a special event, Paradise Hills is also a wonderful venue for affordable destination vineyard weddings, reunions, and retreats. The scenic surroundings and peaceful ambiance provide an ideal backdrop for creating lasting memories with loved ones. Paradise Hills Winery Resort and Spa is the perfect blend of laid-back luxury, fine wine, and natural beauty. While I have only been here maybe twice, it isn’t because it was on purpose. Honestly, I wish I could say I have gone more and a meal there is on my to do bucket list soon! Clearly with everything offered, this is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to unwind and reconnect with nature. And while I am at it, and just realized this, they also have the Georgia Wine Depot as well, which I DEFINITELY plan on visiting soon! For all other information, be sure to go visit their website!
Winery Resort And Spa Hours: Sunday-Wednesday(12 P.M.-5 P.M.); Thursday-Saturday(11 A.M.-6 P.M.)
Georgia Wine Depot Hours: Thursday-Saturday(11 A.M.-6 P.M.); Sunday(12 P.M.-5 P.M.)
Contact Number: (706) 745-7483
Website: Paradise Hills Winery Resort & Spa
Redtail Mountain Vineyards
Redtail Mountain Vineyard is the last of the 4 wineries covered on this list that offers a unique wine-tasting experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the North Georgia Mountains. Also known for its breathtaking views and award-winning wines, this vineyard is dedicated to crafting quality wines from estate-grown, hand-picked grapes. Whether you’re an avid wine enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful spot to enjoy some time in nature, Redtail Mountain Vineyard provides an unforgettable experience. The vineyard is situated on a stunning property that has been owned by the Taylor family for over 30 years. Brad and Kim Taylor, along with their two sons, Justin and Kyle, fell in love with the land in the Coosa Valley and, through years of hard work and dedication, transformed it into a flourishing vineyard. Their passion for both winemaking and the land is evident in every bottle produced here. What makes Redtail Mountain Vineyard truly special is the connection it has to its surroundings. The vineyard is home to several families of Red-Tailed Hawks, which often soar high above the property, providing both beauty and entertainment for the vineyard’s visitors. These majestic birds are a constant presence, circling the land and occasionally making an appearance to check in on the activity below. The hawks’ graceful presence inspired the name “Redtail Mountain Vineyard,” a perfect fit for this serene location. Guests visiting Redtail Mountain Vineyard can expect a warm welcome and a truly unique experience. The vineyard’s tasting room offers a chance to savor the fruits of their labor while enjoying sweeping views of the vineyards below. The wines, made from grapes grown right on the estate, have earned recognition for their exceptional quality, showcasing the winery’s commitment to creating the finest wines possible. They also provide wine slushies which come through clutch in the hotter, more humid times of year! Whether you’re visiting for a wine-tasting session, a relaxing afternoon, or just to take in the stunning mountain views, Redtail Mountain Vineyard offers a peaceful retreat in the North Georgia Mountains. The family-oriented atmosphere ensures that everyone feels at home, and the staff is always ready to share their love for wine and the vineyard with you. For those looking for an authentic, tranquil winery experience with a personal touch, Redtail Mountain Vineyard is a must-visit destination in North Georgia. I have been here only once so far, but I can attest to the great wine, great views, great atmosphere, great snacks, and friendly service!
Hours: Thursday-Sunday(12 P.M.-6 P.M.)
Contact Number: (706) 837-7731
Website: Redtail Mountain Vineyard | A North Georgia Family Winery
Grandaddy Mimms Distilling Company
Looking for drinks a little stronger than your typical glass of wine or bottle of beer? Check out Union County’s only moonshine distillery, Grandaddy Mimms Distillery! From moonshine shots to mixed drinks to beer to jars of moonshine to take home, and more, you have plenty of drinking options and different ways to enjoy your drinks! Originally opened in 2016, this distillery was originally located at the Pappy’s Plaza about 5+ miles south of town. Just a couple of years ago, the distillery relocated to its present-day location on Wellborn Street, just down the hill from the Blairsville Square. Ever since, this establishment has boomed and ran hot, bringing in a ton of new customers each year. While there’s really not much to cover for food, given they have none that I am aware of, I’ll go ahead and tell you that my favorite drink to get here is the Night Owl which is more like a coffee drink. It comes with your choice of alcohol, chocolate or caramel(or both) syrup, and whipped cream. Truly, it is one of my favorite drinks in town and is the one I most recommend to anyone who will go. As for a little background, their story began with their “Grandaddy Mimms” AKA Jack McClure’s famous moonshine recipe. When you walk into this place, if you’re like me, you’ll love the design of the place with the stage right at the entrance, the mural of the name on the wall, the wooden look from the floors to the ceiling, and really, just the overall vibe of it all. You can also take tours of the distillery and get a look into what the process of making the moonshine and other drinks takes. And before I end this overview, 2 things need to be mentioned. Owner, Tommy Townsend, is a music artist who loves a good time and good music, and he even plays from time to time at the distillery, as does a few other music artists he invites in. Come time for the Mountain Music & Moonshine Festival, which is hosted by the distillery, you can expect to see the whole Blairsville Square shut down for the event, and you can especially expect a few great music artists to be on their stage right on the site of the distillery as well! Just last year, Wade Hayes was on deck! So, with all of this information given, I can attest that this place is worth a stop in! Drop by and bring a friend!
Hours: Monday–Thursday(11 A.M.-6 P.M.); Friday-Saturday(11 A.M.-8 P.M.); Sunday(Closed)
Contact Number Number: 706-781-1829
Website: https://grandaddymimms.com/
Blairsville Brewing Company
I’m not going to lie, I haven’t been here very much for any beer, nor do I really know that much about it. Why? Because lucky me gets gout flare-ups, and I always associate any “brewery” with beer, which is the single worst thing you can drink if you have gout! However, that doesn’t mean I don’t hear great things about this place or that I haven’t ever stepped in at least once to see what it looks like! Located in Merchants Walk in Downtown Blairsville, this place seems to have a good vibe to it, plenty of seating, and a good selection of craft beer. If you’re looking for food, this establishment itself doesn’t have any of its own(It does have snacks though!), but the beauty of being in Merchants Walk is that they are surrounded by plenty of food options. From time to time, though, I have heard of this place to host different food trucks, as well as musicians for live music, which can bring a good crowd here. Other than this, I really can’t tell you anything else about it! I would recommend giving it a shot, especially if you’re a beer fan!
Hours: Monday-Thursday(12 P.M.-8 P.M.); Friday-Saturday(11 A.M.-8 P.M.); Sunday(Closed)
Contact Number: 706-400-1818
Website: https://www.blairsvillebrewingcompany.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlairsvilleBrewingCompany?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blairsvillebrewingcompany?igsh=MXBlMXpyaHJ3NzZ6
Blairsville Social
Quickly becoming “the bar” of Blairsville, this is the spot in Downtown Blairsville which seems like most are going to nowadays. When I am in Blairsville, I usually find myself stopping here any time I am looking for a good bite to eat or for a quick drink, especially after 8 P.M.! This place just opened in November of 2023, so it is fairly new, but just like Living Water Vineyards, it has been quick to bring in new customers and the clientele continues to grow by the day. Weekly events held here usually consists of Tuesday Trivia, Wing Night Wednesday, Thursday night karaoke, live music on Fridays, and college football on Saturdays. This place also offers an outdoor patio area out back, along with a couch and extra seating in the back room. As for the menu, I have to say, I am a fan of the food and I love their pulled pork BBQ sandwich, their meatloaf, their chicken tenders, their okra, and their green beans just to name a few menu items. As for drinks, I don’t get anything special from them aside from a seltzer, but they do have Jack and Coke, Vodka Tonics, Old Fashioneds, Long Islands, and Rum Punch all on the menu. I can say, that if you’re wanting to get the perfect combo of “buttered and boozed”(AKA good food and drinks) then this place offers the perfect balance!
Hours: Monday-Tuesday(11 A.M.-9 P.M.); Wednesday(11 A.M.-10 P.M.); Thursday-Saturday(11 A.M.-11 P.M.); Sunday(Closed)
Contact Number: 706-705-5329
Website: https://www.facebook.com/BlairsvilleSocial?mibextid=ZbWKwL
Lucky’s Taqueria & Cantina
One of the OG’s of town. The first actual “bar” I ever remember see coming to fruition within the Downtown Blairsville city limits and it is still going. Initially, however, before this location was Lucky’s, it was Copelands, so I can’t give Lucky’s the “true” credit of being the first bar, but I think we all get the drift. This restaurant is just 1 of your 3 Mexican restaurant choices in Blairsville, and in my opinion, by far the most popular. This restaurant is one of the many inside Merchants Walk, making it too a convenient location to other establishments around it, such as Blairsville Brewing Company. Inside, the restaurant is decked out with a cool Mexican-themed look and decor, and the vibe feels full of life at its busiest hours. The restaurant typically seems to have plenty of seating, but at times, it can require a wait. If that’s the case, and you don’t want to stick around too, too long, don’t fret, because you can still order a drink at the bar and/or order to go at the outside window. If you’d like to sit outside, you’re more than welcome to at the seats out back or at the high-tops near the entrance. Do keep in mind, that clearly isn’t ideal for the cold winter months or hot summer days, but otherwise and most of the year, it is pretty ideal. The foods I love to get here include the street corn, the chicken quesadilla, the chips and queso, and the tacos. Probably sounds pretty basic, but if I came in more I may try a bigger variety. The thing is, though, now that I live in Atlanta, I hardly get to go anymore. This reminds me to get back! As for the drinks, they are very well known for their margaritas, and that is probably the one thing I most hear people rave about. Even the people I know who aren’t necessarily fans of Lucky’s(few and far in between), will still brag big time on the margaritas! So, that’s pretty telling. My favorite part of this restaurant is its location, putting you up pretty close and personal with the Blairsville Square. Events that I can recall being hosted here is karaoke, trivia, and live music. Really, I need to get back here and get freshened up! Nonetheless, this is another great spot to get to while on your visit in Blairsville!
Hours: Monday-Saturday(11 A.M.-8:45 P.M.); Sunday(Closed)
Contact Number: +1 706-487-4231
Website: https://www.luckystacoshop.com/events
Vincent’s Copper Top Restaurant and Pub
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Located right on Blue Ridge Street and across the street from Merchants Walk is Vincent’s Coppertop Restaurant and Pub. It’s one of Blairsville’s “finer” dining options and a place I have only been to twice. Since I have last gone, the experience has taken itself up a few notches with a pub, an outdoor patio/courtyard, and live music. The interior set up is a nice and cozy one, with plenty of space, and a comfortable atmosphere. Really, it has me wanting to go back to check out the changes and see what I’ve missed out on! As for what I’ve seen lately, and given I love a good brunch, I think what I most want to go check in for is the Saturday and Sunday brunch! When looking at the menu, I can already say I’d want to check out their Banana Foster’s French Toast or their Omelet Du Jour! As for the dinner that I’ve already had there(Which so far is the only thing I have had there), I went with the Ribeye, mashed potatoes, and garlic toast and I was impressed and recommend to anyone else! For starters, I have had the fried green tomatoes and smoked trout dip, and those also “slapped”(AKA excellent and amazing). As for some of the other menu items that I haven’t tried yet, but want to, includes the Steakburger, the Roxi, and the Loaded Chicken Salad(Although I’m typically not one to enjoy cranberries in my chicken salad, but you can’t knock it until you try it)! As for their drink menu, it is probably the biggest one of any restaurant in town that I could tell you about, but the Cinnamon Smashed Apple, Liquid Mary Jane, and Chocolate Biscotti Martini all sound appealing to me! The pub AKA Drake’s Pub, is named after the late David Drake, who owned the once popular Monet’s Cafe Italian Restaurant in the same building for many, many years, and is a place that many locals I know love to gather and socialize with a drink or 2! If you get a chance to mark this restaurant off of your bucket list, do it!
Hours: Monday(11 A.M.-8 P.M.); Tuesday(Closed); Wednesday-Thursday(11 A.M.-8 P.M.); Friday(11 A.M.-9 P.M.); Saturday(10 A.M.-9 P.M.); Sunday(10 A.M.-3 P.M.)
Contact Number: 706-400-7095
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