Our Story & Our Team

A Local Legacy

Set on 250 acres of former farmland with protected mountain and forest views all around, Roo Mountain Vineyards is a celebration of both the beauty of the Blue Ridge foothills and the warm hospitality and community that surround it. Every corner of Roo Mountain today has been intentionally crafted to share that same beauty and hospitality with each of our guests.

The property currently encompasses the vineyard under cultivation as well as our working winery, barrel room and rooftop garden tasting bar and main tasting room with idyllic scenic views.

Roo Mountain Vineyards scenery in the fall

About Us

Roo Mountain’s founders are long time residents of the Blue Ridge Mountains, having spent years running a local business before ultimately deciding to pursue their passion in creating a vineyard. Inspired by their own love of good wine, good music and good company, they purchased the property that would become Roo Mountain in 2018 and began the meticulous process of planning and planting, all the while working to make Roo Mountain a luxurious yet comfortable and inviting destination where they can share their love of the craft and the community.

Our Wines

Two years of planning and soil testing went into creating Roo Mountain’s vineyard. The first block of Petit Verdot and Merlot grapes were planted in 2020 and first harvested in 2021. We now grow Petit Verdot, Chambourcin, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Manseng varietals.

Today, Roo Mountain has 7,300 vines under cultivation on 6+ acres, all on a VSP or Vertical Shoot Positioned trellis system. Roo Mountain offers a robust selection of red, white, rose and sparkling wines as well as hard ciders all produced onsite by our own vineyard team.

Why Roo?

The emblem of Roo Mountain is, of course, a rooster. But why? The land that is now Roo Mountain Vineyard, like much of the surrounding area, was once home to the Cherokee Nation. In seeking to honor the history of the place, we looked to the Native American tradition which reveres many types of birds. According to some traditions, the rooster is regarded as a spiritual guide teaching us the lesson of using one’s voice for the greater good. It also often seen as a symbol of the sun, resurrection and protection as the herald of dawn and the start of a new day.

As it happens, there were just two farm inhabitants left behind when the owners purchased the Roo Mountain property in 2018 – a rooster and a hen! The pair lived out their days on the farm as the original mascots for Roo Mountain Vineyards.

The Roo Crew

Jennifer Grimmer

Director of Operations

Jennifer Grimmer joined Roo Mountain Vineyards in June 2024, bringing over 23 years of experience in travel and tourism to her role as Director of Operations. Prior to Roo, she served as the Executive Director of the Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce and the Destination Marketing Organization for Gilmer County, Pick Ellijay. Jennifer’s journey in the industry began with her own global equestrian tour company, which she operated from 2009 to 2015, offering unforgettable horseback adventures around the world.

Originally from Oregon’s famed wine country, Jennifer developed a lifelong passion for wine and gourmet cuisine. After graduating from the University of Oregon in 2002, she moved to Georgia, where she further honed her expertise as the Executive Director of the Peachtree City Convention and Visitor Bureau.

Now residing on a small farm in Ellijay, Jennifer is dedicated to ensuring that every guest at Roo Mountain Vineyards enjoys an exceptional hospitality experience.

Eraldi Trifka

Vineyard Manager

As Roo Mountain’s Vineyard Manager, or “Grape Whisperer” as he likes to think of it, Eraldi knows that providing constant care and attention is essential for producing the highest quality grapes possible. Over his six years in Viticulture, he has developed a deep appreciation for the intricacies of grape cultivation beyond just the harvest season and surface-level beauty.

Despite whatever challenges Mother Nature may throw his way, he takes great satisfaction in continually learning and adapting to the changing conditions of the vineyard and in knowing that his efforts in the vineyard are transformed into the wine that guests enjoy. Also, full disclosure: he prefers to whisper to those grapes in Albanian to prevent anyone from stealing secret information.

Rachel McConaughey

Tasting Room Manager

As the Tasting Room Manager at Roo Mountain Vineyards, Rachel brings a passion for wine and a commitment to exceptional guest experiences. With 23 years in the food service industry, Rachel has cultivated a deep appreciation for our craft and a keen understanding of the nuances that make each bottle special.

Rachel’s journey began with a love for viticulture, leading her to earn my WSET certification. Since then, she has honed her skills in hospitality and customer service, ensuring that every visitor leaves with a memorable experience.

At Roo Mountain Vineyards, Rachel oversee daily operations, from tastings to helping coordinate events in our gorgeous barrel room. She thrives on building relationships, sharing knowledge about our wines, and fostering a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels at home.

Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, hiking, and hanging out with her son and her 2 dogs. She looks forward to sharing our passion for wine with you and helping you discover your new favorite pour!

Jordan Turner

Food Services Manager

As the Food Services Manager at Roo Mountain Vineyards, Jordan’s creativity and sense of flavors elevates our wines and ciders with a truly tasty menu. Jordan uses local ingredients whenever possible and changes our menu seasonally for the ultimate in gourmet deli cuisine.

Caitlin Putnam

Assistant Manager – Tasting Room

Hey there! I’m Caitlin Putnam, Assistant Manager here at Roo Mountain Vineyards. My journey with Roo started as an Assistant Winemaker, and over time I’ve had the chance to work in many areas—from caring for the vines and wine tanks to pouring wine behind the bar. That variety is one of the things I love most about my job—there’s always something new and exciting happening!

What truly brings me joy, though, is spending time with our guests. Whether I’m helping set the stage for a special proposal, leading a tasting, or simply sharing a glass of wine and good conversation, I love creating welcoming spaces where people can relax, connect, and make memories.

Being part of both the beauty of the vineyard and the warmth of our guests’ experiences makes every day here unforgettable—and I feel lucky to share Roo Mountain with you.

James Pinedo

Tasting Room Team LeaD

Hi! I’m James , and I’ve been in the service and hospitality industry since I was 21. I kicked off my bartending career at Blue Martini in Naples, Florida, where I spent ten years learning everything I could about top-notch customer service and how to keep things running smoothly in a high-volume, high-energy atmosphere.

After that, I traded the nightlife for sunny days at Beach Box, a small family-owned spot right on the sand. Working at Beach Box was the best — everyone just wanted to relax, sip great drinks, and soak up the beach. I loved meeting people from all over the world who were there to have a good time and make memories.

After 28 years in Naples, I was ready for a new adventure. The beautiful North Georgia mountains were calling my name, so during the pandemic I bought some land, built my cabin about a year later, and settled into mountain life.

A few friends recommended Roo Mountain Vineyard, so I stopped by one day, fell in love with the stunning views and amazing wine, and knew I’d found my place. I joined the Roo Mountain team in June 2024, and today I’m proud to be Team Lead. I love working with this incredible crew and bringing my years of experience and passion for hospitality to every guest who visits.

When I’m not at the vineyard, you’ll usually find me outside enjoying everything the mountains have to offer — from hiking new trails and trying out great local restaurants, to riding my Harley Sportster through the twisty mountain roads. There’s nothing better than the sound of the exhaust echoing through the hills and the freedom of winding through the curves surrounded by nature.

I can’t wait to welcome you to Roo Mountain Vineyard and make sure you have an unforgettable experience — beautiful views, delicious wine, and good company.

Delani Daley

Tasting Room Team LeaD

Hi, I’m Delani — originally from Montana, and proud to call North Georgia home.
I’ve been in the service industry since I was 14, gaining experience in restaurants, coffee shops, and sports concessions. Each role fueled my passion for hospitality and deepened my love for connecting with people. That journey eventually brought me to the world of wine, where I found my true calling — one that spans all styles and varietals. While I enjoy exploring everything wine has to offer, I have a special appreciation for the bold character and complexity of dry reds.

I joined Roo Mountain Vineyards in December 2024 and now serve as Team Lead. I take pride in creating a warm, welcoming environment for every guest, always with a calm, professional presence and a genuine smile. My goal is to ensure each visit is memorable, relaxing, and filled with the joy that great wine and good company bring.

When I’m not at the vineyard, you’ll find me at the gym, curled up with a good book, spending time with my fiancé, or enjoying a glass of wine while taking in the beauty of the North Georgia mountains.