Brigadoon is a place that is idyllic, unaffected by time, and distant from our world of tension and stress. Crane Creek Vineyards fits this definition perfectly. Gayle and I have traveled the world in quest of food and wine and few locales feel as cozy and comfortable as Crane Creek Vineyards.

Wow! Another CIA Trained Chef here in the North Georgia Mountains. Chef Michael Collins brings a wealth of experience to Michaelee's Chocolate Caffe, in Hiawassee, Georgia

Here's a little bit about our amazing getaway to the Beechwood Inn in Clayton, Ga back at the beginning of April. Thank you David and Gayle for providing everything we needed as we recharged and explored Rabun. Salut!

New wineries are continuing to open in the North Georgia Mountains. We stopped by to meet the owners and taste their wines. What a delightful visit.

What an exciting interview I had with Chef Yati Lang of Yati’s International Bistro in Franklin, Georgia. Chef Yati is a native of Indonesia, and has traveled the world in her quest of new and interesting foods and recipes.

Tucker moved his approving eye around the dusty wine cellar. Emma had just reproached him one more time to clean it up, at least just a little.

Gayle and I go out to lunch frequently. It has become almost a daily ritual in order to get out of the Beechwood Inn just for a small change in scenery. Invariably, the first place that comes to mind is “Fromage.” While we try to make the rounds of local restaurants, we would have to say we are Fromage “regulars.” Excuse me folks, but you are sitting at our favorite table.

Gayle and I go out to lunch frequently. It has become almost a daily ritual in order to get out of the Beechwood Inn just for a small change in scenery. Invariably, the first place that comes to mind is “Fromage.” While we try to make the rounds of local restaurants, we would have to say we are Fromage “regulars.” Excuse me folks, but you are sitting at our favorite table.

Chef Louis Osteen is legendary, and he is now offering his practiced culinary skills at Rabun County’s own Lake Rabun Hotel. Chef Osteen has more than 30 years of experience, and he is also author of “Louis Osteen’s Charleston Cuisine: Recipes from a Lowcountry Chef,” made famous by his original recipes and signature southern flavors.

The North Georgia mountains have been known for moonshine, agriculture, traditional values and a broad spectrum of geologic and cultural riches. These assets remain, but their impact is changing as visitors are now associating the North Georgia Mountains with beautiful new wineries, fabulous dining, luxury resorts and the abundance of wonderful fresh and local products. Of course, you can still find a mason jar of good ‘shine if you know who to ask.

The Beechwood Inn is a very special place – in large part because of the wonderful ambience and hospitality provided by David and Gayle. The inn is not just a nice place to visit...you WILL want to live there. The southern states are blessed with many fine bed & breakfast inns that don’t elicit this same reaction. You may be awed by their antique appointments, lacey coverlets and elaborate breakfast spreads, but you also feel as if one wrong, clumsy move could destroy an heirloom and draw the scornful looks of your hosts for the remainder of your stay. At the Beechwood Inn you will instantly feel as if you're staying with family. The Inn is historic yet not fragile. It is filled with wonderful period antiques, but it does not feel formal or stiff. It is altogether homey and comfortable.

The Beechwood Inn is a very special place – in large part because of the wonderful ambience and hospitality provided by David and Gayle. The inn is not just a nice place to visit...you WILL want to live there. The southern states are blessed with many fine bed & breakfast inns that don’t elicit this same reaction. You may be awed by their antique appointments, lacey coverlets and elaborate breakfast spreads, but you also feel as if one wrong, clumsy move could destroy an heirloom and draw the scornful looks of your hosts for the remainder of your stay. At the Beechwood Inn you will instantly feel as if you're staying with family. The Inn is historic yet not fragile. It is filled with wonderful period antiques, but it does not feel formal or stiff. It is altogether homey and comfortable.

Beechwood Inn is the Clayton, GA Best Grub Award Winner!

The Beechwood Inn garnered its third consecutive Wine Spectator "Award of Excellence"