Local Winery Celebrates Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

One of just many new and upcoming local wineries in Gilmer County celebrated their grand opening on Thursday July 29.

The Gilmer Chamber of Commerce welcomed the new Buckley Vineyards and wished them success. Chamber Director Bobby McNeil opened the ceremony and gave the floor to owners Kevin and Gay Buckley. After a short speech, the couple, surrounded by chamber ambassadors, cut the ribbon to officially debut their new winery. Approximately a hundred people attended the event which included music from sixteen-year-old Adrian Lyles who was a hit with the crowd.

Each year, local Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors welcome new businesses with a special Ribbon Cutting ceremony. Ambassador Lee Johnson explained they have been very busy lately catching up with some of the new previous business owners after the pandemic.  Ambassador Kimberly Adamson was in attendance along with several others as well.

Also, celebrating a grand opening was a new limo service that will transport patrons to local wineries. Owner Tim Grimmer cut his own business ribbon too.

Sage Food Truck held its grand opening too. The vendor will serve some great cuban sandwiches and set up shop every weekend at Buckley Winery.

Buckley Vineyards opened earlier this year after acquiring the old Henry Evans homestead property.  The property is surrounded by  Turkey Creek and has a beautiful scenic view.  Kevin and Gay, owners of the property, have turned it into a beautiful winery and produce many of their own wines. They also sell some micro-brewery beer. The winery is just one of the local wineries.

Kevin explained that he loves gardening and has always wanted to open his own vineyard.  With some help learning the ropes from Mike Ott, owner of Ott Vineyard and Farms, in the field of growing grapes he has achieved his dream. The Buckley Winery is located at 708 Henry Evans Rd., Ellijay, Georgia, and is open seven days a week.