Who knew that right outside of Nashville was a winery dedicated to crafting Old World wines?

On a day trip to Nashville friends and I decided to try some of the wineries that surround the city. Not far north of The Music City is Sumner Crest Winery. It was begun in 1997 by two brothers who wanted to not only craft wines, but create a place where people could gather. They named the winery not after themselves, but the county where they grew up. Highlighted here are a few of Sumner's best wines.

As with many southern wineries, many of the wines are sweeter than most Europoean wines. The goal is to create good qualty wines.

• Seyval--This grape is grown locally, one of the few that grows well in Tennessee. It is crisp, with citrus, and acidity. There's a hint of sweetness and apricot to balance the acid.
• Sumner Queen--This is an excellent, light white wine. It is a blend of Reisling and French varietals, but not as sweet as expected.
• Niagra--This is a semi-sweet wine with a muscadine flavor. That's not suprising since the grape is native to Tennessee. There's plenty of fruit and honey flavors.
• Merlot--This dark brown-red wine's flavors are as rich as the color. There are dark cherry flavors that flow into plum. A great winter wine or to serve with hearty meat dishes.
• Port--The port is a full-bodied fortified wine. It's sweet, but complex, with layers of flavors that will warm you.

There are several other wines made by the Sumner Crest Winery. During the summer months there is a series of outdoor events for the entire family. The winery is well worth the visit during your travels in Tennessee.

For more information about visiting the winery you may call Sumner Crest Winery at 615-325-4086 for exact hours or visit their webpage. The winery is easily reached by taking the 117 exit off I65, to 5306 Old Highway 52, Portland, TN 37148.