Kix Brooks Inspired By Tim McGraw and Faith Hill to Open His Winery

Although he retired from hit duo Kix Brooks is not slowing down anytime soon. His winery, 'Arrington Vineyards,' opened in 2007 -- and he has Faith Hill and Tim McGraw to thank for that.

Brooks says that years ago, "Faith and Tim gave my wife Barbara and me two bottles of wine from different countries every month for a present." The Toronto Sun found out those wines gave Brooks the push and inspiration he needed to open his own vineyard almost four years ago.

In 2007, Arrington's first produced 6,000 cases. Now they are selling 20,000 cases a year and growing. Wine is one of the few businesses that was left unscathed by the nation's recession. You can buy the country stars wine online, in select Tennessee stores, or at the vineyard itself.

During the summer, Brooks has concerts on the winery grounds where you can bring your own picnic lunch. Brooks says, "It's me and friends in the business, just guitars, no vocals, so people don't feel they have to stop and focus on the music." Wine tastings occur year round, and the wines retail between $18 to $50 a bottle.

Brooks brought in grapes from California's Napa Valley to start Arrington. He also gave himself a much desired job --taste tester for every new wine that is brought into production. Their latest best sellers are the raspberry and blackberry dessert wines.

A major Civil War battle took place in Franklin, Tenn., a town close to the winery, giving visitors the opportunity for historic sight-seeing. Don't forget to check out the Civil War cemetery at Carnton Plantation, as well. For more info, head to the winery's official site.