Louisiana-Birmingham
We recently made an impromptu decision to purchase a new car! The car that my heart was set on was located in Georgia which is about 500 miles from where we live. Naturally, we took the utmost advantage, making this road trip into brewery visits! My dad and stepmother tagged along for the ride and enthusiastically joined in on the fun of beer blogging!
We began our road trip to Georgia, making the first stop at Trim Tab Brewing located in Birmingham, AL. This brewery received excellent reviews online even, voted as Birmingham’s best Brewery. Allow me to remind you that the COVID pandemic is still in full affect throughout Alabama. We were unable to go inside, beer was served in plastic cups which at this time most breweries were doing the same. My initial impression, to be honest we weren’t overwhelmed with the beer nor the staff wasn’t overly friendly. We did however enjoy sitting outside sipping on beer after a long drive.
Birmingham-Atlanta
On the road again… The plan was to eat at Bartaco which is an upscale street food restaurant. As I mentioned before, COVID typically required outdoor seating and at this current time it was storming. We previously went to Bartaco (Chastain Park location). We absolutely loved it and were looking forward to re-visiting.
If you are ever in the Atlanta area, I highly recommend finding a Bartaco! They have two other locations nearby, Inman Park and West Midtown.
Atlanta-Suwanee
Our second stop was Monkey Wrench Brewing in Suwanee, GA. I must say the four lovely girls working behind the bar were very helpful and welcoming. It could be too that since we were now in Georgia, masks and outdoor seating was not required.
There is a large seating area outside and inside the warehouse to properly maintain social distancing. We sat inside while watching a few guys practice corn hole for a local tournament the next day. (I didn’t even know that was a real thing!). We really enjoyed the relaxing and welcoming environment, and I genuinely loved their T-shirt designs. Needless to say I purchased a shirt!
Our third road trip stop was StillFire Brewing which is also located in Suwanee, GA, and by far we undoubtedly had one of the BEST times there! Upon arriving I didn’t know really what to think, carefully considering I’ve never parked at a local police station to go to a brewery. As we walked closer to the brewery, I instantly noticed a large outdoor playground for kids to play. Ordinarily having a specific area for kids is definitely a plus when you tag them along to breweries. Unfortunately at this time it was closed due to COVID.
We treated ourselves to a chicken & cheesesteak Philly sandwich from Five Fingers Philly Food Truck that was parked outside. Between the four of us we tried twenty-one beers. We enjoyed an impressive experience and will definitely go back! A huge shout out to Matt and Annie who were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. For an extra bonus we were able to sample a couple of beers that weren’t released on tap yet. I have to give it to StillFire; they have many tasteful beers! We all agreed to liking Koastal Krush and Hoochie Momma.
Suwanee-Buford
The next day was an exciting one, the key reason we were in Georgia!- To purchase a new car! We promptly began our day at the Volvo Dealership in Buford, GA.
Justin B. and Justin J. were both great sales consultants to work with from start to finish – long distance and in person!
Afterwards, we ate a health-minded brunch at First Watch Café which is conveniently located across the street from the dealership. Notably since there aren’t any local wineries where we live, we maintain a mutual agreement. If wineries are nearby, we will compromise breweries for wineries – at least for a considerable part of the day.
Buford-Dahlonega
I was extremely excited to drive my new car (which I LOVE) for the first time to Kaya Vineyard and Winery in Dahlonega, Ga. Although we were unable to go inside the spacious tasting room, there was plenty of covered seating outside to enjoy a glass of white wine surrounded by breathtaking views of the vineyard and magnificent mountains.
As we were admiring the attractive property where a wedding would typically take place, we walked to a specific area where picnic tables were set up. While enjoying a brief conversation with the employees who were setting up umbrellas, we learned of their four on site cottages. These represent the first of 14 luxury cottages that Kaya plans to generously add allowing guests to truly experience Kaya Vineyard and Winery. This is a spectacular venue for pre wedding festivities or a weekend getaway.
Frogtown Winery
The next winery stop was Frogtown, which is a 57-acre wine estate located only about a mile from Kaya Vineyards. We were seated on the expansive porch overlooking the Mountains; the view was absolutely remarkable and relaxing. I could have sat comfortably in that chair ALL day with a glass of delicious wine in hand! If I had to describe my initial impression of this winery in two specific words, it would be sophisticated and charming.
This winery is worth a visit just for the view of graciously overlooking the vineyards and peaceful surroundings of the local mountains! Even though we didn’t eat, the paninis and cheese trays looked fabulous. I did undoubtedly enjoy sipping on Rosé!
As time passed, I insisted we at least get a view of Three Sisters Vineyards, since it realistically is only a short distance up the mountain’s back road. Although we didn’t taste the wines, I would recommend visiting this winery. Just a quick glance instantly gave me a laid-back country vibe. Also nearby is the Cottage Vineyard & Winery and the Cavender Creek Vineyards.
Dahlonega- Cleveland
As you would expect, a cold beer was calling our name! We had to get at least one brewery in for the day, which was Tantrum Brewing, a hidden gem, located about ten miles north. Upon arriving I immediately noticed the scenic background surrounding the metal and wood building.
I sincerely loved the modern and woodsy atmosphere outside and inside. Not long after we ordered a flight, the brewery was packed, but not overwhelming at all. Coincidentally, we engaged in conversation with a family that lives not far from our hometown! You can always spot an LSU fan!
Tantrum Brewing is a quick ten minute drive to the city of Helen. Just take the Helen Highway (GA Hwy 75) straight into Helen. In my personal opinion, I would not recommend hotel accommodations. Rather I suggest renting a cabin if you plan to stay in Helen. Helen is known for its fall tradition of celebrating Oktoberfest which runs from September to the end of October. Unfortunately it is postponed until 2021.
Cleveland- Lawrenceville
The next day we went to Slow Pour Brewing Company located in Lawrenceville, GA. I was by far taken back from the atmosphere of this particular brewery. To start with I adored the steps leading into the cozy, relaxed and rustic tasting room flowing into a second tasting area. Lastly, by the welcoming outdoor seating area, we sat at one of the picnic tables which seemed like hours just talking and taking in the scenery. Similar to Frogtown… I would be content sitting at this brewery ALL day. Some of our favorites were Lulada, Pop Rock, Midsummer Night and Spirit of the Moment.
Lawrenceville- Gainesville
Next on our road trip agenda was Left Nut Brewing which is located in a historic building in Gainesville, GA. From the outside it looks more like a library or school to me. They sadly didn’t have any sours. Aprihaotic was pretty good and the closest to a sour. They primarily make IPA & Cider’s. We weren’t overly astonished with the service, but we still enjoyed our time there. We even ordered Napolis Pizza which was nearby to eat with a cold glass of Skaggs.
Gainesville- Sugar Hill
To end our brewery road trip , we decided to check out Indio Brewing in Sugar Hill,GA.
What a great brewery in a ideal little spot especially if you prefer sour beers. Much of the surrounding area was closed at this current time, but it seems to be a great atmosphere for hanging out.
We got a beer to-go and sat outside enjoying the nice patio which is in the center of restaurants and conveniently overlooking a splash park behind the Bowl at Sugar Hill. The specific area around this brewery is awesome! The park is a hot spot for local venues, and we were imagining it is probably a lot of fun when a band comes to play.
Plus, you can get your beer to-go and walk around Sugar Hill’s Town. The beer tasted good and the service was attentive! Indio Brewing is worth checking out! You may indeed experience an event going for an added great vibe.
Slow Pour
Major Grace
Midsummer Night
Spirit of the Moment
Commodore James
Peachin to the Choir
Cotillion
Blizzard of Saaz
Mercury Wave
Still fire
Witty Diva
Thrill Ride
Koastal Krush Mimosa
Buzzworthy
Hoochie Mama NITRO
Midnight Voyage NITRO
College DropOut
Quarantine Survival Beer
Orange Diva
Fighting 13
Breaking Blonde
Gummy Bear Green Apple
Glory Haze IPA
Chocolate Thunder
Reality Czeck
Trop, Drop & Roll
Bingo Mango Bongo
Hopnoxious 2XIPA
SourBerry Shortcake
Cherry Bomb
Orange Diva
Left Nut
Skaggs Folly
Bad + Bruggie
McCormac’s Delight
The Lappland Blonde
Wines
Kaya
2016 Reserve Chardonnay
Frogtown
2015 Sauvignon Blanc
2013 404
2015 Vineaux Rosé
Hotel Recommendations:
· Hotel Hampton Inn Atlanta Mall of Georgia
Restaurant Recommendations:
· Bartaco -also located in other states
Contact Journey With Julie, my travel services are free and I would love to help you plan your next trip!
I hope that you will reach out!
Email: journeywjulie@gmail.com
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