Cades Cove Cellars was founded by two generations of the Birkholz and Reed families, each bringing with them decades of passion, skill, and dedication to the art of winemaking. Jerry Reed, a seasoned vintner and winemaker since 1984, laid the foundation with a career defined by craftsmanship and innovation. His daughter, Cameran, grew up immersed in the wine industry and followed in his footsteps. After earning her law degree, she pursued her true calling at UC Davis, where she received her winemaking certification in 2010. Cameran’s brother-in-law, John Birkholz, has worked as a cellar master for over 12 years, refining his expertise before stepping into his current dual role as cellar master and assistant winemaker. Overseeing it all is John’s father and Cameran’s father-in-law, Bill Birkholz, who serves as president of the company and is an active ambassador for Cades Cove Cellars within the close-knit community of Townsend.

Together, this family-driven team has accumulated more than 80 years of winemaking experience. Their philosophy is rooted in a commitment to crafting wines that reflect both artistry and authenticity, inspired by the rustic elegance of the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains. Whether drawn from the graceful beauty of a white-tailed deer or the soaring majesty of a bald eagle, their wines embody the natural spirit of the land.

The winery takes its name from the historic valley of Cades Cove, a quiet sanctuary in the Smokies rich with preserved 19th-century homesteads and abundant wildlife. This connection underscores the family’s deep appreciation for the region they call home. Nestled in the peaceful foothills of Townsend, Tennessee—often called “the peaceful side of the Smokies”—Cades Cove Cellars provides a setting where tradition, community, and nature come together to inspire truly exceptional wines.

Visitors are warmly welcomed with complimentary tastings offered daily, no reservations required. Guests can enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the laboratory, tank room, and even watch the bottling line in action. The winery also features a thoughtfully curated gift shop, showcasing not only wine accessories but also unique crafts created by local artisans. Whether stopping by for a tasting, learning about the winemaking process, or exploring locally made treasures, Cades Cove Cellars offers an experience that celebrates both fine wine and the spirit of the Smokies.