Sip, Savor, and Stay Awhile at Bear Claw Vineyard & Winery
Bear Claw Vineyard & Winery has done it again, earning the coveted 2024 Best of Georgia Award. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this family-friendly gem captured the hearts of its visitors—and their votes—solidifying its reputation as a must-visit destination for wine lovers and seekers of good times alike.
The Best of Georgia Awards, hosted by GBJ.com, recognize businesses across the state that go above and beyond, with winners chosen entirely by the public. For Bear Claw, it’s not just about the wine—though their vintages consistently rake in international accolades—it’s about the experience. Customers who cast their votes spoke of the welcoming atmosphere, the warmth of the tasting room, and the sense of slowing down that defines a visit here.
“We may be small, but we’re mighty,” says founder and owner Mick (Michelle) Swim, whose vision and passion have propelled Bear Claw to national and international success. “Winning this award means everything because it comes from the people who believe in what we do. We strive to make every visit unforgettable—whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth.”
Bear Claw’s wines speak for themselves, winning medals at prestigious competitions like the Los Angeles International Wine Awards, the Texas International Wine Competition, and the London Wine Competition. But the magic of Bear Claw extends beyond the bottle. Guests rave about the tasting room—where children and dogs are as welcome as connoisseurs—and about the year-round live music that fills the vineyard with good vibes every weekend.
It’s not just about the accolades, though they are impressive. At its heart, Bear Claw is about connection. As visitors stroll through the vineyard or settle in for a glass of wine, time seems to slow down. It’s a place where relationships flourish, smiles come easily, and life feels a little less hurried. That, more than anything, is why people keep coming back—and why they voted Bear Claw to the top.
For anyone looking for a destination that blends world-class wine with the charm of a local favorite, Bear Claw Vineyard & Winery has become the place to be. This year’s Best of Georgia Award only reaffirms what its guests have always known: there’s something truly special happening here.
