Ground breaking Wednesday for new Lumpkin winery, resort

DAHLONEGA - Montalvina Winery and Estates in Dahlonega held its ground breaking Wednesday at 3:00.

The ceremony was on the property, located just west of Dahlonega off Georgia 52 on Hightower Church Road.

Montalvina consists of 400 acres bordered by the Chattahoochee National Forrest and the Etowah River. Montalvina will feature a Tuscan design winery and restaurant, 40+ acres of vineyards, river front parks, nature trails, and tennis and spa facilities.

The development will include 95 estate home sites and 200 Tuscan style villa homes, town homes, and cottages, according to Managing Partner Rob Beecham.

The development team includes Bill Harrison of Harrison Design Associates; Joe Gayle of Joe A. Gayle and Associates; Beecham Builders, LLC; and Atlanta Developer Bobby Greenway. Montalvina's Tuscan style architecture will be consistent through out the entire development.

Plans are under way for a spring planting of the vineyards. The varieties of vinifera grapes will include: Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tannat, Chardonnay, Rousanne, and others. Opening of the Winery, restaurant and Montalvina's first Tuscan inspired village will be in October 2007. For more information, Contact: Montalvina Realty and Property Management LLC @ (800) 251-4385 or Rob Beecham @ 678-725-4372. Also, visit www.montalvina.com.