Terra Incognita is a new family-run vineyard located between Clayton and Clarkesville that aims to be something more than wine.
“We are growing toward being the area’s outpost for all outdoor-oriented activities while providing guests with wine, beer, and peace,” says Torsten Ernst, who owns the vineyard along with brother Chris and mom Mary Lou. “Currently we are open for special events and wine tastings on Saturdays, Sundays, and by appointment. We also have various food options available.”
The centerpiece of Terra Incognita Vineyard is a 2,700-square-foot pavilion with an attached catering kitchen, fireplace, bar, and upstairs suite situated on the vineyard’s eastern hillside. Sunsets fall in the notch between eastern and western hillsides providing a spectacular evening from the pavilion lawn and upper vineyard. The pavilion is ideal for any special event or celebration.
The Ernst Family currently grows grapes on four acres. A special feature of the property is a series of trails that allow visitors to enjoy the countryside up close. “We have a few trails that make for easy walking or you can spend time walking through the vineyard,” Torsten notes. “We have two basic loops that are fit for general use, the Eastern Creek Loop and the Spring House Loop.”
The Eastern Creek Loop starts the pavilion and winds its way down to Falls Branch which it follows up to a gravel road. Visitors can then follow the road back to the start or contour along the bottom of the vineyard and back up. On the western hillside, the Spring House Loop takes you along the edge of the vineyard’s hybrid grapes and then to an old dry-stack spring house. Both routes provide beautiful views and ample opportunity to experience the serenity of the area.
Terra Incognita Vineyard
1821 Vandiver Mountain Road
Clarkesville, GA 30523
Owners: The Ernst Family
Phone: 706.963.0228
Email: info@terraincognitavineyard.com
Website: www.terraincognitavineyard.com