Blackberry Farm, one of America’s most beautiful and relaxing places to stay, has something extra: an underground secret. Their wine tunnel houses not only the property’s 150,000 bottles, but also hosts tastings for both wine and whiskey. We spoke with Kelly Schmidt, sommelier and Assistant Director of Beverage at Blackberry Farm, to learn more about the space.
All About Blackberry Farm in Tennessee
Blackberry Farm sits on 4,200 acres in eastern Tennessee, in the Great Smoky Mountains. It’s the complete package, an oasis that includes finely decorated rooms, a large event space, a myriad of activities (everything from yoga and other wellness activities to fly fishing and hiking), plus incredible dining and wine experiences.
The Blackberry Farm Wine Tunnel
The idea for the Wine Tunnel was thought up many years ago by Sam Beall, whose parents owned Blackberry Farm, which began life as an inn. When Sam returned from school and started working at the Farm, he wanted to expand the food and beverage experience to the next level. When what is now the main dining venue, The Barn, was being built, he foresaw a second building, a sort of event space, across the property. The two would be linked by a wine tunnel, and construction on that was eventually begun in 2016. Beall, sadly, passed away before it was completed.
Today, wine tunnel tours and tastings happen every day at 3:00 p.m. It links The Barn to Bramble Hall, the newly renovated event space. Interestingly, the whisky tasting room was placed in the middle in order to make the fire escape, required by local building codes, more appealing. There’s also a skylight so that even in the middle of the tunnel there is a bit of the beautiful outdoors coming in.
So, how do you learn to pick a good wine? “What’s important is giving yourself the tools to hone in on what you like, because that’s what ultimately matters to you,” says Schmidt.
How to Pick a Good Wine
For Kelly Schmidt, Assistant Director of Beverage at Blackberry Farm, it’s all about educating yourself, trying wines and taking notes—and putting faith in wine professionals, including shop owners, importers, and sommeliers.
- If you have a local wine shop, get to know the owner. If you try something and like it, ask questions and start to learn what you like: higher or lower alcohol, higher or lower tannins, lighter or heavier body, earthy, fruity, etc. Then find out what other wines match the qualities you enjoy.
- If you like a wine, turn the bottle over and see who the importer is. Find other bottles from them and give them a try. (See below for a list of importers that Schmidt likes.)
- Don’t fear the sommelier. They’re passionate about wine and want to give you the best experience. Be clear about how much you want to pay, and then let them guide you to something that matches your preferences and/or that pairs well with what you’ll be eating. Again, ask questions about the wine and take notes.
- If you don’t have a great wine shop nearby, read online reviews. Try out a bottle or two and if you like it, try another by the same reviewer.
Wine Importers/Distributors to Try
Cocktail Recipes from Blackberry Farm
Berry Spritz from Blackberry Farms
This recipe with infused vodka, lemon, and agave makes for an intriguing and delicious mixology activity. Try their Meyer Lemon Smash, too!
Story by Stephen Treffinger / Photos Courtesy of Blackberry Farm
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