Conversation With a Wine Maker
Join us on a journey of flavor and tradition in our conversation with wine maker John Smook.
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of East Tennessee, Tennessee Valley Winery stands as a testament to timeless craftsmanship and passion for the vine. Since its inception in November 1984, this venerable establishment proudly produces around 80,000 bottles annually.
I had the opportunity to sit down and have a conversation with wine maker, John Smook. John and his sister, Paulette Pierotti, own Tennessee Valley Winery – a place I would describe as a hidden gem in Loudon County.
What inspired you to start producing wine?
“Our family is from Italian Heritage and our ancestors in Tuscany were big wine makers. There is a house they call Biondi and we are part of that Biondi family,” John tells me. John was a businessman and bass guitar player in a popular band in South Africa before coming over to the United States. Once John moved over to the US, he stopped in at Tennessee Valley Winery for a glass of wine and immediately saw something special that he wanted to be a part of. After working for the original owners, he became a part owner, and he and his family are now the sole owners of the Winery. “It is part of our heritage.. we are Italian and we love wine.”
How many different varieties do you produce?
“We produce 19 different varieties of wine.” These wines are being fermented year-round and you will find a wide range of varieties from dry to sweet – whatever suits your palette!
What is your best-selling variety and why do you think that is?
“This is sweet tea country, so people love our sweet muscadine wines.” Country Red and white/pink muscadines are the wines that John and Paulette sell most often. “Country Red, our best-seller, is made from a concord grape,” says John. TN Valley Winery’s muscadine wine making process takes 6 months to produce before being bottled… it is true that good things take time!
Tell us about your fruit wines and what makes them different?
“Our fruit wines are made from fresh REAL fruit, no concentrates or flavoring.” Blackberry is a popular favorite among customers.
Describe a typical wine tasting at your winery.
“A wine tasting at Tennessee Valley Winery is a completely free experience,” says John. The tasting room is open 7 days a week offering a unique, guided experience for every visitor.
What makes TN Valley Winery worth a trip for out-of-town visitors?
“We offer a personal touch and relationship with our customers.” John and Paulette describe their Winery as a “boutique winery” that stands by their product. Tennessee Valley Winery is one of the oldest operating wineries in East Tennessee and has won over 900 awards for their wines. “We make genuine wine and are creating a destination and experience for all.”
Do you have a favorite wine? Describe what makes it stand out to you.
“There are a few that are nice for me,” says John. He says this “because everyone is different and can be their own wine connoisseur in what they like.” John prefers dry wine and his favorite they make is “definitely Private Reserve” which is a red wine. “Our Pinot Grigio which is our Cherokee White.. I actually quite like that as well.”
The Wine Maker said it himself; everyone can be their own wine connoisseur based on what you prefer. Stop in and try these Award-Winning Wines for yourself, John and Paulette would love to see you.