What happens from the vine to glass?
Ever wonder what goes into that bottle of wine you’re sipping?
“In Tennessee, the growing season brings a lot of challenges and rewards,” says Big Creek Winery owner Billy Brymer, adding, “and at Big Creek Winery, we embrace every moment of it.”
Big Creek Winery uses both estate-grown at our ever-expanding vineyards as well as Tennessee-sourced grapes and fruits, always with care and quality at the forefront. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how the magic happens.
Spring – Bud Break and Bloom
Grapevines awaken from winter dormancy, sending out tiny green buds. Early spring is fragile—too much rain or a surprise frost can cause damage, so our team monitors the vines closely.
Summer – Canopy Management and Ripening
Vines grow vigorously, so we thin leaves and manage vine growth to make sure the fruit gets just the right balance of sun and shade. Our fruit wines also begin to ripen in the summer heat.
Late Summer to Early Fall – Harvest Time
This is the busiest and most exciting time at the winery! Grapes and fruits are picked at peak ripeness, sorted, crushed, and pressed. You’ll often smell sweet, fresh juice in the air—and maybe catch a glimpse of the wine making process during your visit.
Fall and Winter – Fermentation, Bottling, and Rest
Fermentation happens soon after harvest. As the weather cools, we begin bottling wines and shipping orders. It’s a time for reflection and planning for the next vintage.
Every day except Christmas, Thanksgiving and New Years we are open for free tastings at our Pulaski location. Stop by!