A July 3rd Celebration at Buckley Vineyards – Wine, Music & Mountain Hospitality
As the sun blazed over the North Georgia mountains and the long holiday weekend kicked off,
our Sips and Sights Travel crew made our way to one of our favorite summer stops—Buckley
Vineyards in Ellijay, Georgia. Nestled in the rolling hills just a couple of hours north of Atlanta,
Buckley is the kind of place that combines scenic beauty, quality wines, and genuine Southern
charm in equal measure.
We arrived on July 3rd, and the place was already buzzing. A fantastic live band had set up on
the outdoor stage and was delivering spot-on covers that kept the crowd smiling, swaying, and
clapping along. The energy was festive but relaxed just the kind of vibe you hope for when
you’re easing into a holiday weekend with friends and family.
Most of our group opted for wine flights, giving us a chance to sample Buckley’s impressive
lineup. Two wines stood out: the Farmhouse, a Bordeaux-inspired blend with earthy depth and a
touch of spice, and the Cabernet Franc, which stole the show with its smooth finish and bright
fruit notes. The unanimous favorite among our group? The Cab Franc—though to be honest,
with the July heat beating down, it might have been outshined by the refreshing frozen
blackberry sangria. Cold, fruity, and just boozy enough, it was the perfect drink to sip while
soaking in the mountain views.
For those in the party who weren’t feeling the wine, Buckley’s indoor bar had a selection of craft
beers, a nice touch that makes the winery feel inclusive for all kinds of palates. The tasting
room itself is warm and rustic, and we couldn’t help but imagine how cozy it must feel in the fall
and winter with the large stone fireplace crackling in the background. There’s also a beautiful
reception hall, which seems like it would be a perfect venue for weddings, celebrations, or just a
big group tasting.
What really stood out, though, was the staff. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted
with warm smiles and easy conversation. Every pour was offered with a recommendation, a joke,
or a little bit of local insight. That true Southern hospitality Buckley is known for? It’s no
exaggeration. The team clearly loves what they do, and it shows.
Whether you’re a wine lover, a live music fan, or just someone looking for a fun, laid-back way
to celebrate a holiday weekend, Buckley Vineyards delivers. We’ll definitely be back—and next
time, we’re bringing an extra cooler for those frozen sangrias.
Cheers,
Paul & Lisa
Sips and Sights Travel
