This Tiny Winery Town in Alabama Is a Hidden Gem for Wine Lovers

Alabama is underrated on many fronts, but especially when it comes to food and dining. Sure, it's loved for its Southern staples and certainly has an impressive craft beer scene, but did you know that Alabama is also a must-visit for wine enthusiasts? If you need proof, spend a little time exploring the town of Fruithurst. The origins of the town are right there in the name—this town was originally settled by the Alabama Fruit Growers and Winery Association in 1894 with the hopes of one day becoming a vineyard village. Here's more on this delightful winery town in Alabama and why you should plan your visit.

Why Fruithurst Is a Wine Lover’s Dream

Fruithurst isn't your typical wine destination—but that's exactly what makes it such a must. Few towns, in the Southeast at least, have a history so singularly rooted in grape growing. But the moment you arrive in this Northern Alabama town, you'll begin to understand that this spot was made to be the state's premier wine-growing destination. At one point, there were 3,000 acres of orchards plus a dedicated vineyard village, although Prohibition forced the last winery to close in 1919.

Today, you won't find dozens of different wineries packed into a small area, but rather you'll experience Fruithurst as a signature stop along the North Alabama Wine Trail. This region has wholeheartedly embraced both traditional wine varieties and distinctive Southern fruit wines. Did you know that wine could be made from strawberries, blueberries, and even peaches?

The Best Wineries to Visit in Fruithurst

Of course, no trip to this wine town in Alabama is complete without spending some quality time at the Fruithurst Winery Co. Established in 2009, well after Prohibition was lifted, this locally owned winery pays homage to the region's grape-growing tradition, specializing in Muscadine wines. The winery was started by two cousins, Josh and Dylan Laminack, who thought that the Muscadine grapes were worth celebrating. If you've never tried Muscadine before, it has an intense, sweet fruit profile. The grapes themselves are native to the American South, and they grow thick-skinned. The sweetness lends itself well to dessert wines, but you can also sample dry varieties. At Fruithurst Winery Co., you're invited to try a sample to see which flavors speak to you. One kind that always surprises visitors is the delightful blueberry wine!

After spending time at Fruithurst Winery Co., you can continue along the wine trail, venturing to other local spots including High Country Cellars and Maraella Vineyards and Winery. All of these are official stops on the trail, and you can even get your official wine passport stamped!

More to Do Beyond Wine

Wine is at the heart of Fruithurst, but it's also only the beginning of all there is to uncover. Any outdoor enthusiasts in your group will want to check out the nearby Cheaha State Park, famous for being home to Alabama's highest point. Plus, there's something for everyone to enjoy here; the trails here range from accessible to extreme. When you're ready for a great meal, Backwoods Steakhouse in neighboring Tallapoosa is famous for its cozy, log-timber building and out-of-this-world fried catfish.

What to Know Before You Go

Fruithurst Wine Co. is typically open between 10 am and 6 pm Thursdays through Saturdays, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly. If you plan on visiting more than one of the wineries on the trail, be sure to arrange for transportation or designate a safe driver.

So, while Fruithurst may not have the volume of wineries available in other wine towns throughout the country, it does have history, authenticity, and that classic Southern hospitality. In short, it's a must for any wine enthusiast out there! Looking for more? Check out this local Alabama winery that's perfect for a warm day on the water.