The Cottage Vineyard & Winery
The Cottage Vineyard & Winery was established in 2013 when the original owners, Jim and Sandra Penner, brought their passion for vineyards and fine wines to North Georgia and planted the very first vine on The Cottages’s beautiful 29 acres of rolling hills. While Jim Penner served our country for over 20 years in the United States Air Force, the veteran’s memorial wall was actually completed before the first tasting room. This wall is comprised of names of veterans honored by our customers from all around the country. Surrounded by flags of all military branches and first responders, it is a peaceful spot on the property to sit and enjoy a glass of wine….. especially at sunset!
Author: Caroline Porsiel
Caroline Porsiel is a master distiller and liqueurist based in East Ellijay, Georgia. She founded House of Applejay, a fine spirits and liqueur distillery, in 2022 with her mother, Sabine, crafting award-winning products like Applejay from Ellijay, Mt. Frozen Knob Vodka, and Winter Cherry Mountain Liqueur. The distillery won a 2024 Best of Georgia Award and a 2025 Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its Winter Cherry Mountain Liqueur. As a founding member of the AMBRU Campaign, launched in 2020, Porsiel advocates for the global recognition of American Brandy and Rum. She continues to drive innovation in the craft spirits industry from her active distillery in the heart of Georgia’s apple country.
