Due South: Small Southern Wine Shops That Shine

Plus: An Oxford cigar hideout and a visit to Ellijay, Georgia

PHOTO: THE LARK WINESPACE

When it comes to wine shops, bigger isn’t always better. Sure, the giant stores that stock thousands of bottles are impressive, but smaller, locally owned shops tend to house thoughtfully curated, ever-changing inventories, often featuring great values from lesser-known producers. Many such retailers also offer free tastings, wine clubs, sweet and savory pairings, and a chance to connect with other wine drinkers or the owners. Below, a small flight of wine shops around the South worth a visit.

THREE WATERS RESORT & MARINA

WHERE ADVENTURE MEETS RELAXATION: Fishing, boating, scuba diving, and snorkeling are Florida Keys staples, but at the newly opened Three Waters Resort & Marina, a Tribute Portfolio Resort, you can enjoy these pastimes in a setting of redefined luxury. Set on fifteen oceanfront acres, the resort draws inspiration from the vibrant island, featuring ocean blues and pops of yellow, corals, and orange to evoke stunning sunsets. The Cove, an adults-only retreat, provides an especially serene escape, while nine dining options—including Little Limón’s cocktail and raw bar and Kokomo, the only swim-up bar in the Keys—promise refined cuisine. And because it wouldn’t be the Keys without a little adventure, an on-site marina offers fishing courses, charters, and ample provisions for unforgettable experiences on and off the water. Plan your island getaway at Three Waters Resort & Marina.

ELIZABETH FLORIO

Ellijay, Georgia. Every fall the citizens of Atlanta flock to the hills and hamlets of North Georgia like ants to a fallen apple. Speaking of apples, here’s a nice itinerary in and around the town of Ellijay.

Saturday morning hike. The Stone Tower Loop at Fort Mountain State Park might be Georgia’s best hiking trail for kids. The one-miler traverses a natural rock garden, a stunning overlook, a fire tower built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935 (try to find the heart-shaped stone a worker left for his beloved), and a mysterious stone wall that could date back to the sixth century. That’s a lot of scenery for the step count.
Post-hike pit stop. Step count aside, you earned that burger. The ones at downtown Ellijay’s River Street Tavern feature locally sourced beef, sauteed shiitakes from a sustainable Ellijay mushroom farm, and for the especially outdoors-inspired, a “Big Game” blend of elk, bison, wagyu, and wild boar.
Sunday fun-day. Fall crowds at Mercier Orchards are only slightly lighter on a Sunday than a Saturday, but this well-oiled enterprise can handle them. During our recent visit, every counter at its massive farm store was manned, parking attendants waved cars to open spots, and a caravan of tractor wagons shuttled the ants, I mean apple pickers, to and from the orchards. We left with bags of Fujis and boxes of apple cider donuts.