Sherry Triangle

What Is the Sherry Triangle?

The Sherry Triangle is a three‑block historic district in downtown Anniston, Alabama. Centered around a triangular plaza at the intersection of East Oak Street, South Pine Avenue, and West Main, the area earned its nickname in the 1990s when a handful of family‑run wine merchants began offering locally produced sherry‑style fortified wines. Today the Triangle blends preserved Victorian‑era storefronts, a modest museum, and several tasting rooms, making it a focal point for both history buffs and casual visitors.

Why Visit the Sherry Triangle?

• Architectural charm: Restored brick facades, wrought‑iron balconies, and original cast‑iron lampposts showcase Anniston’s late‑19th‑century boom.
• Local wine culture: Small‑batch sherry‑style wines are crafted from Alabama grapes, offering a taste you won’t find elsewhere.
• Free, self‑guided walk: No admission fee and easy signage let you explore at your own pace.
• Community events: Seasonal festivals, live music, and historic reenactments add vibrancy throughout the year.

History of the Sherry Triangle

Anniston grew rapidly after the 1880s railroad expansion, attracting merchants, lawyers, and manufacturers. The three‑block area was originally laid out as a commercial hub, with the triangular plaza serving as a horse‑drawn carriage turn‑around. By the early 1900s, the district housed a bank, a newspaper office, and several general stores. In the 1970s the area fell into decline, but a local preservation society rescued the buildings, restoring original brickwork and installing interpretive plaques. The wine connection began in 1992 when the Anderson family opened the first sherry‑style tasting room, sparking a modest but enduring niche market.

Top Highlights

• Triangular Plaza: The centerpiece features a historic marble fountain and a bronze sculpture titled “Harvest”.
• Anniston Heritage Museum: A small museum inside the former post office displays photographs, maps, and artifacts from the city’s industrial era.
• Sherry Tasting Rooms: Three family‑run venues—Anderson Cellars, Miller & Co., and the Oak Street Cellar—offer guided tastings on weekends.
• Victorian Facades: Notable buildings include the 1889 Bank of Anniston and the 1895 Oak Street Pharmacy, both restored to their original colors.
• Seasonal Festival: The Autumn Harvest Festival (late October) showcases live bluegrass, local crafts, and special wine releases.

Practical Visitor Information

Opening Hours

Most businesses within the Triangle operate from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. Many tasting rooms close earlier on Fridays (4:00 PM). The public plaza and museum are open daily, but the museum is closed on Mondays.

Ticket Price

Entry to the plaza and museum is free. Tasting rooms charge $5‑$10 per sample; they often offer a $15‑$20 tasting flight that includes a short history talk.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March‑May) and early fall (September‑October) provide mild temperatures and the fewest crowds. The Autumn Harvest Festival adds extra activity in late October, while summer can be hot and busier.

How to Get There

From Anniston Regional Airport (ANB), the Triangle is a 12‑minute drive via US‑78 East. Downtown Anniston is served by the CityLink bus route 4, which stops at Oak Street. Taxis and rideshare services are readily available, and there is limited street parking with meters on Oak and Pine.

Average Visit Duration

Most visitors spend between 1 and 2 hours exploring the plaza, museum, and at least one tasting room.

Tips for a Great Visit

• Arrive before 11:00 AM in summer to avoid peak heat.
• Wear comfortable shoes; the cobblestone streets can be uneven.
• Bring a reusable water bottle—several kiosks offer free refill.
• If you plan to taste wine, check the tasting room’s age‑verification policy (must be 21+).
• Take advantage of the free guided walking tour offered on Saturday mornings at 10:30 AM (check the museum’s bulletin board for any schedule changes).

Nearby Attractions Worth Adding to Your Day

• Cheaha State Park: About 30 minutes north, offering hiking and the highest point in Alabama.
• Anniston Museum of Natural History: A 10‑minute drive east, featuring exhibits on regional wildlife and geology.
• Historic Berman House: A restored 1890s residence turned bed‑and‑breakfast, located two blocks west of the Triangle.

Is the Sherry Triangle Worth Visiting?

Yes. The Sherry Triangle delivers a concise yet rich glimpse into Anniston’s architectural legacy, local wine tradition, and community spirit—all without an entry fee. It’s especially rewarding for travelers who enjoy walking tours, historic neighborhoods, and tasting regional specialties.