OUR STORY
Our mission is to redefine Tennessee vineyards and winemaking and to grow the highest quality vinifera wine grapes in the state. We also have a passion for sharing our knowledge with those interested in learning about viticulture and the winemaking process.
We began winery operations in July of 2015 and are working to expand our current wine selections. We currently grow Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Riesling, Sangiovese, Stuben, and two varietals of Muscadine. We will be expanding our vinifera selections to include Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and more. We also have Blueberries, Blackberries, and Japanese Wineberries which we also incorporate into our wine selections.
We recently launched our first wine club where members will be able to follow the development of the winery and vineyard and participate in our growth. Special members-only events will be planned including vineyard tours, wine tastings, and wine making classes. Click HERE to learn more! We'd love your support, comments and ideas in developing this organization and future events.
OUR TEAM
CHUCK BELT
Winemakers are said to be both engineers and artists. This certainly holds true for our winemaker, Chuck Belt.
Chuck managed a private engineering consulting firm in Knoxville, Tennessee for many years. He eventually purchased the firm and ran it as an independent company for 11 years. He then sold the business to an energy services firm with whom he maintained his employment until he retired in June of 2016.
His interest in the grape and wine industry began in 1974 with the emergence of the California wine industry. He visited Napa in 1976 and 1996, and those trips further peaked his interest in the scientific processes and art of winemaking.
After retirement, Chuck and his wife Alice were looking for more space and a less intense way of life. This search led them to purchase a farm in Grainger County, Tennessee which was originally owned by Alice’s uncle, a cattleman.
While evaluating the property, they decided it would be the perfect site for a vineyard and winery, and a second career blossomed from there.
Chuck has a unique approach to winemaking thanks to his extensive engineering background. He truly is an engineer and an artist.
ALICE BELT
Alice Belt is a retired professional engineer. Originally from Knoxville, Tennessee, Alice spent her career working at the DOE facilities in Oak Ridge.
After retirement, Alice and Chuck purchased her uncle's cattle farm in Grainger County. With no interest in raising cattle, they thought about raising Alpacas but then Chuck discovered that before prohibition Tennessee was known for growing wine grapes. Thus, the idea to open a vineyard and winery emerged.
In 2004, the first acre of grapes was planted. The vineyard has since grown to six acres. All of the wines are made from grapes grown at Spout Springs Estates Vineyard except for the Blackberry which is purchased from a neighboring farm.
KENYA COOK
Kenya is an ER nurse and works at two different Hospitals. She is a level 1 Sommelier and loves all things wine. She was given the responsibility for crafting the 2022 Vintage Noble and made it an excellent "Fine Wine" that will pair well with many foods or for sipping on its own. In addition to winemaking, she assists with our events, works in the vineyard, and helps with marketing for the winery.
KATHY CRAWFORD
We are very excited to have Kathy on our team! She just bubbles over with energy, enthusiasm, and fun! She is very knowledgeable of our wines and is learning more every day. Kathy is also very talented and creative in developing and managing the events we provide for our club members and other customers. Kathy is constantly improving and updating the tasting room by season and various themes. She is always eager to serve and assist our customers with whatever they need.
Kathy keeps Alice and Chuck on their toes and leaning forward.
ABBY (Abigail)
Abby is our 4 year old Estate Grown Aussie Doodle. Well trained and friendly, but keep an eye on your snacks whether on your table or in a bag on the deck. She is Sneaky and Speedy. We ask that you do NOT feed her. They do not beg for food only attention. Watch out for her tail it can knock things over.
GABBY (Gabrielle)
Gabby is our Estate Grown Aussie Doodle. She is the alpha and will push Abby away to get all your attention . They are well trained and friendly. Gabby is a nose bumper so be careful, she can surprise you. Gabby and Abby are half sisters. Gabby at 4 years old is two weeks younger than Abby and a bit more Mischievous. We ask that you do NOT feed Her. They do not beg for food only your attention.
SCARLET
Estate grown Border Collie and Greeter. She came to us as a stray about 6 months old and she was 16 years old when she passed away Dec. 27th of 2018. We have a nice wine we had named for her that like her in her same nature was mature, playful, soft, mysterious and gentle. We miss her very much! Her namesake wine will be a nice tribute to her life well lived and well loved.
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