How it all began

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!

Passing the torch

In early 2022, Steve Schmidt, a personal friend and long-time customer and fan of The Cottage, approached the Penners with the idea of selling after hearing thoughts of their retirement.  Steve partnered with family friends, the Ukani Brothers, to form Sip and Savor Vino Group and the families became the new owners of The Cottage in August of 2022.  Now Jim and Sandra can sit and sip and enjoy the fruits (no pun intended) of their labor.

Exciting things to come!

The Cottage has big plans of expansion to accommodate more people who love wine! With the second tasting room complete and plans to expand the original tasting room out and over the bottom patio area, we will have plenty of room for you and your friends to come enjoy the wine and the views!  We hope to see you soon!

"We want to offer a unique and authentic experience that celebrates the beauty of our location, the quality of our wines, and the warmth of our hospitality."
Steve Schmidt, Co-owner