Also known as The Hawkeye State, Iowa is one of the leading producers of corn and pork, but it’s also home to a wide array of wineries. Popular for its delicious sweet-tasting wine, Iowa also boasts scenic views that include charming bluffs, rolling hills, and sunsets.
If you’re thinking of checking out Iowa’s wine scene, here are the best wineries in Iowa you need to visit.
What Wine Is Iowa Known For?
Iowa has a cold and wet climate, with harsh winters and hot summers, so it can be difficult to grow grapes, especially those commonly found in California like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
The very cold winters in Iowa can be detrimental to most Vitis vinifera varietals, while the warm, humid summers increase the risk of fungal vine diseases.
However, Iowa does have extremely rich soils, which is perfect for cultivating crops. Due to the area’s challenging climate for viticulture, the grapes grown in Iowa are hardy hybrids able to withstand both extreme cold and summer heat.
French hybrid and American varieties are most commonly grown in Iowa. As such, the most popular wines produced in Iowa are Brianna, LaCrescent, Frontenac Gris, Marquette, La Crosse, and Vignoles.
Much of the wine found in Iowa is sweet-tasting, as many of these hardy hybrids naturally result in fruit-forward profiles that are slightly sweeter than traditional European varieties.
Best Iowa Wineries
Now that you know what wines are commonly produced in Iowa, let’s get stuck into the best wineries in the region.
Best Wineries in Iowa Map:
1. Cedar Ridge Winery and Distillery: Elegant Tasting Room
- Address: 1441 Marak Road, Swisher, IA
- Contact Number: (319)-857-4300
- Operating Hours: 11am-9pm Monday to Friday, 11am-5pm Saturday, 9am-5pm Sunday.
Situated in the heart of the Corn Belt in Swisher, Iowa, is the charming Cedar Ridge Winery and Distillery, specializing in handcrafted wines and world-class spirits. The winery’s land is filled with fertile soil, providing the estate-grown grapes with the nutrients needed for high-quality production.
There are plenty of seating areas at Cedar Ridge, including an elegant tasting room, vineyard room, outside patios, and an expansive lawn. While they offer a wide assortment of house and estate wines, the distillery side is equally famous for its award-winning Iowa Bourbon.
Tasting flights are available for both wine and spirits, allowing you to sample their diverse portfolio. Alongside wine tastings, the winery also offers delicious homemade wood-fired pizzas and artisan cheese boards. Live music takes place on a regular basis, creating a welcoming atmosphere for wining and dining.
You can also hire out the estate for private events; if you’re looking for a stunning and spacious venue for small or large groups, Cedar Ridge is a premier choice.
Editor’s Note: Created with fresh-picked Concord grapes blended into apple wine, the winery’s Harvest Blush wine is a deliciously fresh and semi-sweet beverage. Perfect for any season!
2. Stone Cliff Winery: Historic Tasting Room
- Address: 600 Star Brewery Dr., Dubuque, IA 52001
- Contact Number: (563)-583-6100
- Operating Hours: 11am-7pm Sunday to Thursday, 11am-9pm Friday & Saturday
North of Dubuque in eastern Iowa is the gorgeous Stone Cliff Winery, set against an enchanting backdrop of rolling hills. The winery first started producing wine in 2001 and has since become a staple of the Dubuque riverfront.
The beautiful tasting room is located in the Historic Star Brewery Building with views of a historic train bridge and the magnificent Mississippi River.
You’ll be able to sample a variety of the winery’s delicious wines, browse through the gift shop, and even enjoy lunch. The winery offers homemade Soup of the Day, fresh salads, and a wide range of tasty sandwiches and flatbreads. If you’d rather sit outside, the winery has an inviting wine garden that boasts views of the historic Shot Tower.
Every Friday and Saturday night, live music takes place inside the tasting room so you can enjoy your wine in a lively atmosphere. Stone Cliff Winery is also available to host weddings and corporate events.
Editor’s Note: With aromas of citrus, pear, and apricot, the winery’s Moscato is a fan favorite that brings a taste of summer to every glass.
3. Wide River Winery: Intriguing Wine Tours
- Address: 1776 E Deer Creek Rd, Clinton, IA 52732
- Contact Number: (563)-519-9463
- Operating Hours: 11am-6pm daily (seasonal variations may apply)
Wide River Winery has multiple locations in Iowa, including Clinton, LeClaire, and the Village of East Davenport. Each area offers a phenomenal experience for wine lovers.
The main tasting room in Clinton features jaw-dropping views of the Mississippi River from its high bluffs. They offer wine by the glass, as well as food, wine slushies, and informative tours. You can carry your glass of wine as you wander the marvelous vineyards and bluff trail, all the while learning how the winery makes its remarkable wines.
The small bites menu has a variety of tasty items such as garden salads, creamy dips, and local sausage trays. In addition to the food and wines, live entertainment takes place at the winery regularly.
The River Lodge next to the winery in Clinton can also be hired for overnight stays or weekend getaways. If you’re thinking of staying in Iowa for a couple of days, Wide River Winery is a fantastic home base.
Editor’s Note: For those interested in the viticulture side, request a tour of their 10-acre vineyard to see how these hardy grapes thrive on the river bluffs.
4. Tycoga Vineyard and Winery: Sumptuous Homemade Pizzas
- Address: 2585 195th Street, DeWitt, IA 52742
- Contact Number: (563)-659-1443
- Operating Hours: 11am-7pm Wednesday & Thursday, 11am-8pm Friday & Saturday, 11am-6pm Sunday.
Tycoga Vineyard and Winery is a family-run estate that produces over 20 different wines ranging from dry to sweet. They have consistently won awards for their wines at regional and international competitions.
The warm and rustic tasting room offers a welcoming atmosphere, while the picturesque outside patio boasts a charming stream and wooden bridge. While Tycoga’s delectable wines are a central highlight, they are also famous for their scrumptious handmade wood-fired pizzas.
The winery’s barrel room and outside patio can also be hired for private events, making it a popular choice for weddings and celebrations in the DeWitt area.
Editor’s Choice: The winery’s rhubarb wine is a standout. It’s a wonderful combination of sweet and tart, which pairs perfectly with their more savory pizza options.
5. Jasper Winery: Stylish Tasting Room
- Address: 2400 George Flagg Pkwy, Des Moines, IA 50321
- Contact Number: (515)-282-9463
- Operating Hours: 10am-6pm Monday to Saturday, 1pm-5pm Sunday
Another marvelous place to visit is Jasper Winery, an urban winery situated near downtown Des Moines. The stylish and modern tasting room offers wine by the flight, sample, and glass. They also serve local beer, sangria, cider, and curated cheese boards.
Alongside the bar, there is a spacious outdoor patio with views into the production area. During the summer months, the winery is known for its legendary summer concert series every Thursday night. It’s a fantastic community event that features live music and a variety of local food trucks.
Suitable for up to 150 guests, the winery’s sophisticated event room can be rented out for weddings and private parties. They also utilize a large outdoor party tent during the warmer months to accommodate larger gatherings.
Editor’s Note: Try the winery’s Chancellor wine, a medium-bodied dry red with strong aromas of cedar and plum, showcasing the potential of Iowa-grown fruit.
6. Eagles Landing Winery: Breathtaking Views
- Address: 127 North Street, Marquette, IA 52158
- Contact Number: (563)-873-1905
- Operating Hours: 10am-5pm daily (seasonal variations apply)
Situated in the scenic river town of Marquette is the elegant Eagles Landing Winery, featuring beautiful views of the Mississippi River area.
The winery currently produces over 30 different wines, ranging from dry reds to sweet dessert wines. Tasting is offered in their cozy tasting room and gift shop. The peaceful atmosphere often transforms with live music events during the peak season.
Marquette is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, and Eagles Landing provides the perfect post-hike destination to relax and sample the unique flavors of the region.
Editor’s Note: If you fancy a crisp and clean wine, try the winery’s Marquette Rosé. It has notes of cherry and strawberry and pairs excellently with grilled dishes.
7. Park Farm Winery: Great Outdoor Area
- Address: 15159 Thielen Road, Durango, IA 52039
- Contact Number: (563)-557-3727
- Operating Hours: Check seasonal schedule; generally 11am-7pm weekdays, extended hours on weekends.
Nestled atop the rolling hills of Iowa’s Driftless Region is the stunning Park Farm Winery. The topography here is unique, as this area was never covered by glaciers, resulting in dramatic bluffs and valleys.
The tasting room and kitchen boast a fireplace, wood-fired pizza, and wine flights. However, the outside area is the standout feature. It has striking views and a multi-level tower, allowing you to sit high above the vines and marvel at the surrounding landscape.
Editor’s Note: Made from LaCrescent grapes, the winery’s Daisy Girl has fragrant aromas of tropical fruit, pear, and pineapple. It is a must-try on your visit!
8. Snus Hill Winery: Perfect Venue for Private Events
- Address: 2183 320th Street, Madrid, IA 50156
- Contact Number: (515)-795-3535
- Website: http://snushillwine.com/
- Operating Hours: Check website for seasonal hours; typically open Friday to Sunday.
Snus Hill Winery is a family-run business that crafts both American and French-American wines. Surrounded by quiet countryside, the winery is a favorite for those seeking a peaceful setting for sipping wine.
The winery produces a wide range of varietals, including their popular Frontenac, which is often aged in American oak to give it a smooth vanilla finish. They are also well-known for their “cat” themed labels which add a charming, personal touch to the bottles.
While you sip on wine at Snus Hill, you can soak in the idyllic scenery. Live music also occurs frequently on their spacious deck during the summer months.
Editor’s Note: The winery’s off-dry white wine, Boule de Poils, has earned numerous awards for its excellence. It features bright aromas of grapefruit and lemon.
9. Fireside Winery: Fun-filled Events and Activities
- Address: 1755 P Ave, Marengo, IA 52301
- Contact Number: (319)-662-4222
- Operating Hours: 10am-5pm Monday to Thursday, 10am-8pm Friday, 10am-6pm Saturday, 12pm-5pm Sunday.
Featuring delicious wine and a tranquil atmosphere, Fireside Winery is a great place to gather with friends. You can enjoy a flight, glass, or bottle of wine inside the tasting room or on the outside patio overlooking the estate grounds.
Fireside Winery hosts a huge array of events, including live music and the very popular Dueling Pianos nights. There’s almost always something exciting going on, so be sure to check their event calendar before you visit.
The pavilion can hold up to 150 guests, making it ideal for wedding ceremonies and large celebrations. If you want to enjoy some wine at home, their wine club offers several perks including discounts and exclusive pick-up parties.
Editor’s Note: If you enjoy a bit of fizz, you can’t go wrong with their sparkling Brianna. It is light, crisp, and perfect for celebratory toasts.
10. Summerset Winery: Various Wine Tasting and Tour Options
- Address: 15101 Fairfax Street, Indianola, IA 50125
- Contact Number: (515)-961-3545
- Operating Hours: 10am-5pm Wednesday to Saturday, 12pm-5pm Sunday
Last but not least is the stunning Summerset Winery. It features a majestic tasting room and a large outside deck overlooking the vineyard.
Wine samples and flights are available at the bar, along with local beers and snacks. The winery has an assortment of yard games, including a bocce ball court. You can also listen to live music every Sunday afternoon (Sunday Zen) or sign up for one of their regular yoga classes.
With large banquet rooms and beautiful outdoor grounds, the winery is an enchanting place for weddings. They offer extensive packages for both ceremonies and receptions. For those wanting to extend their stay, the Inn at Summerset Winery offers comfortable lodging right on the estate.
Editor’s Note: Don’t leave without trying their Caba Moch, a sweet and fruity blend that remains one of their most popular best-sellers.
Final Thoughts
Although a rising star in the wine scene, Iowa is an excellent place to visit for those who appreciate the unique character of hybrid grapes and the charm of rural estates. It’s particularly famous for its approachable and sweet wines, which are best enjoyed amidst the bluffs and hills of the state.
Alternatively, if you’d rather enjoy wine in the comfort of your own home, subscription services like Firstleaf and Bright Cellars are great ways to explore new varietals from around the world.
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