Chambourcin in the Smokies: A Tennessee Treasure at Cades Cove Cellars
When people think of East Tennessee, they imagine misty mountains, scenic drives through Cades Cove, and cozy evenings in the Smokies. But there’s something else this region is becoming known for — wine. And one grape, in particular, is helping shape that identity: Chambourcin.
At Cades Cove Cellars in Townsend, we source high-quality Chambourcin grapes from trusted Tennessee growers to craft two very different, but equally beloved wines: Fall Bounty and Whispering Woods. These wines showcase the versatility of this under-the-radar grape and the richness of our Appalachian spirit.
Why Chambourcin?
Chambourcin is a French-American hybrid grape prized for its adaptability to humid climates like ours in East Tennessee. It’s resistant to common vineyard diseases and ripens consistently — making it a reliable choice for growers and a creative playground for winemakers.
In the glass, Chambourcin offers deep color, approachable tannins, and expressive fruit-forward notes like cherry, plum, and baking spices. It can be crafted into dry reds, off-dry blends, rosés, and even sparkling wines — and we’ve taken full advantage of its range.
Our Expressions of Chambourcin
At Cades Cove Cellars, we offer two Chambourcin-based wines that reflect different sides of this versatile grape:
🍂 Fall Bounty – A Light-Bodied Dry Red
This is our elegant take on Chambourcin — light-bodied, dry, and beautifully aromatic. Fall Bounty captures the softer, more refined side of the grape, with bright red fruit, subtle spice, and a clean, smooth finish. It’s perfect for those who enjoy Pinot Noir-style reds or are looking for a gentle introduction to dry wines.
Pair it with roasted vegetables, pork tenderloin, or a fall campfire.
🌲 Whispering Woods – A Semi-Sweet Rich Red
For those who prefer a fuller, fruit-forward experience, Whispering Woods delivers. This semi-sweet red is lush and vibrant, showcasing the richness of Chambourcin’s dark berry flavors with just the right amount of sweetness to enhance its depth. Smooth, velvety, and incredibly drinkable, it’s a customer favorite for good reason.
Try it slightly chilled on a warm evening or pair it with BBQ, chocolate desserts, or spicy foods.
Tennessee Roots, Mountain Soul
We may not grow our own grapes, but our wines are deeply rooted in Tennessee. We work hand-in-hand with skilled local growers to bring in the best Chambourcin fruit possible and then craft it here in our Smoky Mountain cellar with care and creativity.
Whether you’re strolling through our tasting room or picking up a bottle after a hike through the Cove, you’re tasting the best of what East Tennessee has to offer.
Visit Cades Cove Cellars in Townsend, TN — just minutes from the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park — and discover why Chambourcin is one of the South’s most exciting grapes. With Fall Bounty and Whispering Woods, you’ll see just how beautifully this grape adapts to both the land and the glass.