Yonah Mountain Winery Cleveland, GA: Wine & Views
If you’re exploring North Georgia wine country, Yonah Mountain Winery in Cleveland, GA, is one of those places that deserves a stop, even if just for the view. Nestled at the base of Yonah Mountain, this vineyard combines rolling hills, manicured grounds, and sweeping mountain vistas that make it one of the most scenic wineries in the state.
It’s also pup-friendly, which meant Hank could happily join us on the patio while we sampled our way through a couple of flights. The relaxed atmosphere, paired with the backdrop of Yonah Mountain, makes it easy to linger a little longer than planned.
About the Area
Cleveland sits along the Georgia Wine Highway, a stretch of scenic road that connects many of North Georgia’s best vineyards and tasting rooms. The region’s warm afternoons and cool mountain nights make for surprisingly expressive wines, especially among producers experimenting with European varietals.
While I haven’t yet found a Georgia winery that completely wowed me across the board, Yonah Mountain stood out for its setting, structure, and a few wines that caught my attention. It’s the kind of place where you go as much for the experience as for the pour.
The Wine Flights
We decided to share both a white and a red flight, each offering a glimpse into Yonah’s range of styles.
White Wine Flight
- 2023 Sauvignon Blanc – Light, citrusy, and refreshing, with grassy notes and bright acidity.
- 2021 Stainless Steel Chardonnay – Crisp and clean, with no oak influence; easy-drinking and food-friendly.
- 2022 Viognier – Aromatic and slightly floral, showing hints of peach and honeysuckle.
- 2022 Elizabeth’s Chardonnay – Fuller-bodied and smooth, with a creamy texture and a touch of oak.
Red Wine Flight
- 2019 Estate Merlot – Medium-bodied and approachable, with cherry and plum notes.
- 2019 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon – More structure and spice, with dark fruit and subtle oak.
- 2019 Estate Petit Verdot – My favorite of the day—rich, bold, and layered with blackberry, cocoa, and a hint of tobacco.
- Genesis 13 – A well-balanced red blend that rounds out the flight with smooth tannins and depth.
Between the two, I definitely preferred the red flight, which offered more depth and consistency across the board. The Petit Verdot was the clear standout and one I’d go back for.
The Final Pour
Even if you’re just passing through, Yonah Mountain Winery is worth a visit for the views alone. The mountain backdrop, friendly staff, and dog-friendly patio make it an easy stop on any North Georgia wine weekend.
While Georgia’s wine scene is still growing, Yonah Mountain offers a glimpse of what it can become. The setting, hospitality, and glass in your hand come together for a laid-back, memorable afternoon.
This was my first winery visit in Georgia, but I’ve explored plenty beyond the Southeast. If you love discovering vineyards with personality, check out a few of my other favorites like Trefethen Family Vineyards in Napa Valley and DeLille Cellars in Woodinville, Washington. Both offer incredible settings and wines that capture the spirit of their regions.
Overall, Yonah Mountain Winery feels like a promising start to discovering more Georgia vineyards in the future.
📍 Yonah Mountain Winery
1717 Hwy 255 S, Cleveland, GA
🐾 Dog-friendly patio
🍷 White Wines | Red Wines
🌐 yonahmountainvineyards.com
