Arrington Vineyards and Winery: A Must-Visit Destination
Nestled in the hills just 20 minutes from Downtown Franklin, and about 25 minutes from Brentwood, Tennessee, Arrington Vineyards offers a unique blend of Southern charm and exceptional winemaking. Co-owned by country music artist Kix Brooks, this vineyard has become a beloved destination for wine enthusiasts and tourists alike.
History of Arrington Vineyards
Arrington Vineyards began in 2003 when Kip Summers and a fellow wine enthusiast planted the first vines on a 25-acre farm. Kix Brooks joined in 2004, purchasing an adjacent farm and sparking the vision for a “wine country experience” at Arrington Vineyards. The vineyard opened its doors on July 1, 2007, and quickly gained recognition with its award-winning 2004 Syrah, which won Best of Show at the 2007 Wines of the South Wine Competition.
Since then, the vineyard has grown significantly, adding facilities and expanding distribution throughout middle Tennessee. In 2009, Arrington Vineyards launched the exclusive Kix’s Wine Club and began shipping wines to thousands of members all over the USA.
The acquisition of adjacent farms in 2012 allowed for the development of event spaces, including the Grand Barn and the Vineyard House for private tastings. In 2018, an outdoor Pavilion was added, later transformed into the main retail store in 2020.
Arrington Vineyards has become known as Nashville’s Wine Country, attracting visitors from all over the country. The vineyard’s commitment to quality, hospitality, and the stunning landscape of Middle Tennessee continues to draw wine lovers and curious travelers, making it a beloved destination for both casual visitors and serious oenophiles.
About the Vineyard and Winery
Arrington Vineyards, a 95-acre estate with 16 acres dedicated to grapevines, is committed to cultivating high-quality grapes that capture the unique essence of Tennessee’s terroir. The winery is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, allowing the team to craft a diverse selection of wines, from robust reds and crisp whites to delightful rosés.
The best time to see grapes on the vines is in July and August when they begin to change color and ripen, before harvesting takes place in September. Arrington Vineyards produces all its wines on-site, using grapes grown on their estate as well as those sourced from other farmers in Tennessee, Washington, Oregon, and California. The estate’s vines contribute to roughly 20% of their wine production. Their grapes are featured in wines such as Sparkling Rosé, Antebellum Red and White, Encore, Firefly Rosé, Red Fox Red, and Stag’s White.
The founders’ vision was not only to produce world-class wines but also to create a welcoming environment where visitors could immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Middle Tennessee. They envisioned a place where guests could enjoy leisurely wine tastings, stroll through lush vineyards, and participate in events that celebrate the local culture and community.
Visitors to Arrington Vineyards can enjoy a variety of experiences, from tastings to leisurely picnics amidst the scenic vines. The vineyard also hosts a range of events, including live music on weekends and seasonal festivals.
Wines at Arrington Vineyards
Arrington Vineyards prides itself on producing wines that reflect the unique terroir of Tennessee, combining traditional techniques with modern innovation to create an exceptional wine experience for all. Arrington Vineyards’ wine selection includes:
- Red Wines: These rich and robust wines are ideal for those who appreciate bold and complex flavors. Each red wine is a testament to the vineyard’s dedication to producing full-bodied, aromatic wines that are great for pairing with hearty meals or savoring on their own. Notable reds include the Red Fox Red 2021, a medium-bodied dry red offering a blend of wild berry and black tea aromas, followed by juicy red plum and spice notes on the palate. This wine pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it versatile for meals or special occasions.
- White Wines: Crisp and refreshing, Arrington’s white wines are ideal for a hot summer day or as a complement to light dishes. These wines are characterized by their bright acidity and vibrant fruit notes, making them a popular choice for many occasions. Highlights include the Chardonnay 2022, which offers a balance of flavors, featuring notes of apple, pear, and hints of vanilla.
- Rosé Wines: Offering a delicate balance of fruit and acidity, the rosé wines at Arrington Vineyards provide a refreshing drinking experience. These wines are meant for those who enjoy a lighter option that can be enjoyed year-round. The Celebration Rosé is a sparkling standout, with aromas of red apple and fresh-cut roses followed by the flavors of strawberry, watermelon, and lime zest.
- Dessert Wines: Sweet and luscious, Arrington’s dessert wines are crafted to be the perfect end to any meal. The Encore NV, a port-style wine, features aromas of brown sugar and butterscotch with notes of Luxardo cherries. This full-bodied wine is perfect for pairing with rich desserts or enjoying on its own as a sweet finish to a meal.
Tasting Experiences at Arrington Vineyards
Visitors to Arrington Vineyards are invited to indulge in a variety of tasting experiences, each designed to showcase the vineyard’s award-winning wines in a welcoming setting.
- Tasting Bar: The Tasting Bar offers an opportunity to enjoy a traditional wine-tasting experience with award-winning wines. In the cozy setting of the Lodge, you’ll be guided through a tasting of six wines, with each pour being 2 ounces. Additionally, you’ll receive a Riedel wine glass as a keepsake from the tasting. Reservations are recommended for this experience, designed for up to 4 guests. Groups of 5 or more can inquire about arranging a private tasting to enjoy the same curated experience.
- Wine Flights: Indulge in a selection of four award-winning wines with 2 oz pours of each and enjoy a self-guided, portable tasting experience at a picnic table. No reservations are required for this wine-tasting journey.
- Group Tastings: Great for larger parties, group tastings provide a more intimate and educational experience. Choose your setting from three beautiful private tasting rooms: The Wine Loft accommodates up to 14 guests and boasts stunning vineyard and stage views, complete with an outdoor deck for a touch of fresh air. Or immerse yourselves in country music history in the Nashville Room, which accommodates up to 12 guests and is adorned with a unique collection of memorabilia curated by Kix Brooks himself. For a touch of elegance, gather in the Rosé Room, designed with a sophisticated ambiance to accommodate up to 16 guests. Reservations are required for these tastings, which are ideal for celebrations or team-building events.
- Food and Wine Pairing: Take a seat and indulge in a guided food and wine pairing experience, featuring seasonally inspired small bites prepared by Simply Living Life, perfectly paired with 2 oz pours of award-winning wines. As you savor each pairing, you’ll also learn about the history of the property and watch a video of the wine-making process. Designed for groups of 2-6 guests, this experience ensures that each party is seated at its own table, though there will be other groups present. Reservations are required for this experience.
- The Vineyard House Experience: This is the perfect winery outing for companies or groups of friends. Guests can enjoy a private wine tasting or a food and wine pairing in their own exclusive space, with additional options including catering from an onsite caterer and a Riedel wine glass to take home. The experience accommodates up to 30 guests, lasts for three hours, and is available Monday through Thursday. Reservations are required.
In addition to the various tasting experiences, guests are welcome to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages and enjoy the picnic areas available on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, the vineyard offers selections of crackers, cheeses, meats, and other picnic items for purchase.
Events and Activities at Arrington Vineyards
Arrington Vineyards is open year-round and hosts a variety of events throughout the year, with live music, food trucks, and special wine releases. Some of the popular events include:
- Music in the Vines: Every weekend from April to November, visitors can relax and enjoy diverse musical genres, creating a festive backdrop for wine tasting and socializing.
- Food Truck Fridays: Every Friday from May to October, enjoy a rotating selection of food trucks offering delicious eats to pair with wines. This event provides an opportunity to explore delectable treats while enjoying the beautiful vineyard setting.
Arrington Vineyards also hosts seasonal celebrations and themed events, such as harvest festivals and holiday gatherings.
Arrington Vineyards Wine Club
Kix’s Wine Club is a membership program that offers exclusive benefits, including quarterly shipments of selected wines, discounts, and invitations to special events. Members can choose from different levels of membership and the Wine Club also provides access to limited-edition wines and special releases not available to the general public. Members also enjoy personalized customer service and exclusive access to members-only events at the vineyard.
Arrington Vineyards Merchandise
In addition to their wines, Arrington Vineyards also offers a collection of merchandise for every vineyard enthusiast. Whether you’re looking for apparel and hats to proudly display your love for Arrington Vineyards, or wine accessories to elevate your drinking experience at home, they have something for you. Can’t decide on the perfect gift? They also sell gift cards!
Planning Your Trip to Arrington Vineyards
Arrington Vineyards, located in the scenic hills of Arrington, Tennessee, is the perfect destination for wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Here’s what you need to know before you visit:
- Location: 6211 Patton Rd, Arrington, TN 37014
- Hours of Operation: The vineyard is open year-round, but hours vary by season. Make sure to check their website for the most current hours when planning your visit.
- Large Groups: To accommodate all guests, groups of 20 or more are required to contact the vineyard at least 48 hours before arrival.
- Pets: Other than ADA-certified service animals, pets are not permitted on the property.
- Reservations: It’s a good idea to make reservations for tastings, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Picnic Policy: The vineyard encourages visitors to bring their own picnics. While outside alcohol is not permitted, you can enjoy their wine on-site with your meal. They also offer picnic tables on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Dining: There is no restaurant at Arrington Vineyards, but they do offer a variety of food options available for purchase, including crackers, chips, cured meats, olives, fine cheeses, and non-alcoholic beverages. In addition, every weekend in April through November, the gourmet food shop Simply Living Life serves freshly prepared take-out food at the Pavilion and Barn areas. Also, food trucks are available every Friday from May to October.
- Family-Friendly: Arrington Vineyards is family-friendly and children are welcome. You’ll find large open spaces for kids to play.
- Weather Considerations: Since most of the seating is outdoors, it’s wise to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. There are covered areas, but they can fill up quickly during peak times. Guests are allowed to set up a 10×10 pop-up tent on the hillside for shade.
Planning your visit to Arrington Vineyards with these tips in mind will help ensure an enjoyable experience amidst the beautiful Tennessee countryside. For more information, check out the Visiting Arrington Vineyards FAQs page.
Discover Arrington Vineyards and Winery
Arrington Vineyards isn’t just a place to savor award-winning wines, but a place to enjoy an unforgettable experience. The vineyard offers a unique blend of world-class wines, breathtaking scenery, and warm Southern charm. So, uncork a bottle, breathe in the fresh air, and immerse yourself in the magic of Arrington Vineyards. You won’t be disappointed!
