Uploaded January 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
From the rolling hills of North Georgia to vineyards across the state, grapes are becoming an increasingly important part of Georgia agriculture.
In this report from Ellijay, Farm Monitor’s John Holcomb introduces us to Sarah Lowder, Viticulture Extension Specialist with the University of Georgia, who is helping guide the state’s rapidly growing grape and wine industry.
While viticulture is well established around the world, Georgia’s modern wine industry is still relatively young—and growing grapes here comes with unique challenges. From disease management to vine training, Extension support plays a critical role in helping growers produce high-quality grapes capable of becoming premium, Georgia-grown wines.
That growth is also fueling agritourism, as more visitors seek out winery experiences in the North Georgia mountains—bringing real economic impact to rural communities.
Reporting from Ellijay, John Holcomb explains how Extension research, grower education, and long-term vineyard management are helping shape the future of Georgia wine.
From the rolling hills of North Georgia to vineyards across the state, grapes are becoming an increasingly important part of Georgia agriculture.
In this report from Ellijay, Farm Monitor’s John Holcomb introduces us to Sarah Lowder, Viticulture Extension Specialist with the University of Georgia, who is helping guide the state’s rapidly growing grape and wine industry.
While viticulture is well established around the world, Georgia’s modern wine industry is still relatively young—and growing grapes here comes with unique challenges. From disease management to vine training, Extension support plays a critical role in helping growers produce high-quality grapes capable of becoming premium, Georgia-grown wines.
That growth is also fueling agritourism, as more visitors seek out winery experiences in the North Georgia mountains—bringing real economic impact to rural communities.
Reporting from Ellijay, John Holcomb explains how Extension research, grower education, and long-term vineyard management are helping shape the future of Georgia wine.
