Tips for Maximizing Potential at Highland Manor Winery & Sawbriar Brewing
Owning a property like Highland Manor Winery & Sawbriar Brewing in Jamestown, TN is more than a real estate purchase—it’s a chance to step into Tennessee history, expand on a thriving dual-brand business, and shape the future of food, beverage, and tourism in Fentress County. With 68 acres, two established brands, and a rare Private Tourist Resort designation, this property opens doors to creativity and growth. Below are some pointers and suggestions for making the most of this unique investment.
1. Embrace the Legacy, Build the Future
- Heritage Marketing: Highlight Highland Manor’s distinction as Tennessee’s oldest winery. Customers love history and authenticity.
- Dual Branding Advantage: Cross-promote wine and beer experiences—pair tastings, co-branded merchandise, and joint events.
- Customer Loyalty Programs: Grow the existing wine club while creating a complementary “brew club” for craft beer fans.
2. Leverage the Land
- Outdoor Events: The 68-acre property is perfect for festivals, live music, weddings, and seasonal markets.
- Hospitality Options: Convert the winery’s upstairs space into an Airbnb-style stay for overnight guests. Consider cabins or glamping sites for trail riders and outdoor adventurers.
- Agri-Tourism Expansion: Use open acreage for vineyards, hops production, or even farm-to-table gardens supplying the kitchen.
3. Think Beyond the Tasting Room
- Satellite Retail Opportunities: Open tasting rooms in high-traffic tourist markets like Nashville, Pigeon Forge, or Knoxville to expand brand presence.
- Distribution Growth: Scale shipping operations—wine can be delivered to 41 states, and beer partnerships could open new wholesale channels.
- Product Development: Experiment with seasonal releases, craft cocktails, or specialty ciders to keep menus fresh and customers curious.
4. Enhance the Visitor Experience
- Food Pairings: Expand beyond wood-fired pizza to include charcuterie boards, local cheeses, or rotating chef pop-ups.
- Experiential Tourism: Offer behind-the-scenes tours, winemaking classes, beer-brewing workshops, or farm-to-glass education days.
- Events Calendar: Build a year-round lineup—spring wine walks, summer concerts, fall harvest festivals, and cozy winter tastings.
5. Tap Into Location Advantages
- Trail Riding Capital: Partner with East Fork Stables to create “Ride & Relax” packages—trail riding by day, tastings by night.
- Adventure Tourism: Market proximity to Big South Fork and Pickett State Park for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Regional Draw: Promote day trips from Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga with shuttle options or event packages.
6. Build Community & Partnerships
- Local Collaborations: Partner with nearby farms, distilleries, and artisans for unique products and events.
- Destination Branding: Position the winery and brewery as a must-visit anchor in Tennessee’s food & beverage tourism scene.
- Corporate Retreats & Groups: Attract businesses looking for unique venues to host team-building and conferences.
Final Thoughts
Properties like Highland Manor Winery & Sawbriar Brewing don’t come around often. With over four decades of history, a thriving brewery, and 68 acres of opportunity, this is a rare blend of lifestyle and business investment. By honoring its legacy and embracing expansion opportunities—from tourism to distribution—new owners can grow a destination that defines both Tennessee hospitality and entrepreneurial innovation.
Interested in this property? Contact Stephanie Cross today at (931) 248-6785.