Montaluce is a breathtaking slice of Tuscany found in the
North Georgia mountains...
Montaluce is a breathtaking slice of Tuscany found in the North Georgia mountains, about 15 minutes east of Dahlonega. The vineyards, winery and main buildings transport to a different place – it is really a beautiful place.
Montaluce has two restaurants: Montaluce Winery & Restaurant and Trattoria di Montaluce.
Montaluce Winery & Restaurant is in the main building with great views of the vineyards. Reservations are strongly encouraged for this dining experience. From their web site: “We provide farm-focused menus & carefully hand-crafted wines – come join us for an afternoon overlooking the vines.”
Trattoria di Montaluce is located adjacent to the main winery and is more casual. The first thing you notice in this restaurant is a massive bar with an ample number of TVs to watch sports and two massive wood fired pizza ovens.
From their web site: “It is inspired by the feel of an Italian neighborhood trattoria. Featuring Italian comfort dishes, hand-crafted Montaluce wine, a full cocktail bar, and breath-taking views, for those who are looking to escape the business of reality. “
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On our first visit with tried the Montaluce Winery & Restaurant. We did call ahead for a reservation and got a great seat on the pack patio directly over one of the vineyards.
The wine: We tried the Chardonnay and their Sauvignon Blanc and were very pleased! Quite a few of us equate North Georgia wine with our younger days of making muscadine wine! Not so anymore – the wine is very good!
The food: We saw many dishes delivered to neighboring tables and all we can say it they all looked wonderful. We went simple with a chicken sandwich and a burger.
Big problem here: the French fries were room temperature, almost cold and tasted old – very disappointing! My burger was quite satisfying while the chicken sandwich just fell apart on the bun and was a mess to eat. Again, the old, cold fries basically set the mood for the meal.
(See our follow up report below!!!)
