While Wisconsin is most famous for its dairy products and beer, it’s also rapidly turning into a booming wine region.
The cold winters and humid summers provide the ideal conditions for American and hybrid grape varieties like Marquette and LaCrescent, which are popularly grown throughout the state.
If you’re thinking of heading up to Wisconsin for a day filled with splendor and delicious wine, here’s our top Wisconsin wineries you need to drop by.
What Wine Is Wisconsin Known For?
Wisconsin is quickly becoming a thriving wine region, with over 80 wineries scattered across the state. However, due to harsh and frigid winters and humid summers, the grape varieties grown there need to be hardy and robust.
Cabernet, Pinot Noir, and other Vinifera grapes are not often grown in Wisconsin as they struggle to withstand the state’s unique climate.
Instead, American grapes and hybrid types that can resist cold winters and humid summers are more frequently cultivated, including LaCrescent, Marquette, St.Croix, and Marechal Foch.
12 Best Wisconsin Wineries
Now that you know a little more about the type of wine you’ll find in Wisconsin, here are the best wineries you need to visit.
Best Wisconsin Wineries Map:
Wollersheim Winery and Distillery: Historic Estate
Nestled on a picturesque hillside close to the Wisconsin River lies the majestic Wollersheim Winery, an estate rich with history. The land was first discovered in 1840 by Agoston Harazthy, a Hungarian nobleman.
The estate was used as a winery until 1899, at which point it was converted into a conventional farm. In 1972, Robert and JoAnn Wollersheim purchased the estate and restored it to a working winery.
Since then, Wollersheim Winery has grown into a thriving business, dedicated to producing some of the best wines and spirits in Wisconsin.
The tasting room features a warm, cozy atmosphere and is open daily from 12pm until 5pm. There are a few different tasting options to choose from, including a Seat Wine & Cocktail Tasting, Wine Flight Tasting, and a Winery Guided Walking Tour.
The latter is definitely worth checking out when it’s available. Not only will you learn more about the fascinating history of the winery and vineyards, but you’ll also be treated to three delicious wines. What a perfect way to spend a day out in Wisconsin!
Wollersheim Winery distillery also has a luxurious bistro onsite that serves an assortment of tasty dishes, all of which complement their wines and spirits.
A variety of events take place at the winery if you’re looking for other things to do aside from wine tasting, including annual events like Festive Friday which takes place on the first three Fridays in December.
Editor’s Note: If you’re looking for a delicate red wine packed with berry flavors, try the winery’s Prairie Sunburst. It’s made from locally grown Foch grapes, giving it a taste reminiscent of raspberry.
Vines and Rushes Winery: Tasty Sweet Wines
Situated in Ripon, Wisconsin, Vines and Rushes Winery grows an assortment of grape varieties, as well as strawberries, apples, and raspberries which they use in many of their wines and ciders.
They focus on cold and hardy varieties of grapes like Marquette and LaCrescent that can withstand the harsh winters of Wisconsin.
The tasting room is open daily from 12pm to 5pm on weekdays and until 9pm on weekends. The winery produces a wide range of white wines, red wines, and ciders, many of which have a lovely sweet taste. Better yet, you can enjoy their spectacular beverages alongside a mouthwatering homemade wood-fired pizza.
There is live music on Friday and/or Saturday each week, so it’s the perfect time to spot by for a fun and delicious day out. In addition to weekly live music, Vines and Rushes Winery host an array of other events, including yoga and cooking classes.
They are also available for private events, so if you’re planning a birthday or anniversary party, their gorgeous scenery and wines are sure to make any special occasion feel that extra bit special.
Editor’s Note: The winery’s 2019 Marquette Rosé is one of their stand-out wines, which as its name suggests, is made from Marquette grapes. It has a wonderful sweet flavor.
Staller Estate Winery: Fantastic Venue for Private Events
Next up on our best Wisconsin wineries list is Staller Estate Winery, featuring a gorgeous farmlike setting. They craft a wide range of sublime wines, including whites and reds.
You can sit back and soak in the winery’s cozy atmosphere in their welcoming tasting room, large sunroom, and enchanting gazebo overlooking the vineyard and estate.
The winery is open daily from June through August from 11am until 5pm. For the rest of the year, it’s open Wednesday to Sunday. You can choose from a wide range of flights, all of which contain four 1-ounce samples of their wines.
Tours are also available, which are best experienced with family and friends. You’ll discover more about Staller Estate Winery, including how they make their wine and the grape varieties they grow.
Due to how expansive the estate is, the winery can accommodate private events like weddings and parties. There are various options for wedding services, including the beautiful vineyards, gazebo, and the newly constructed barrel room.
Editor’s Note: If you’re looking for the perfect day to spend with a special someone, reserve a spot in the winery’s Barrel Cellar Experience. It involves exclusive seating for two in their barrel cellar, two wine flights, specialty chocolate truffles, charcuterie and Fromage boards, two glasses of wine, and complimentary wine glasses.
Fawn Creek Winery: Fantastic Fruit Wines
Burrowed in the forests of Dell Prairie, Fawn Creek Winery is a charming estate that makes some of the best fruity wines in Wisconsin. Most of their wines are crafted from grapes harvested in Lodi, California, but all of them are fermented, created, and bottled at the winery.
They offer a vast number of wines, including semi-dry table reds, semi-sweet table wines, sweet table wines, and fruit-flavored wines. Some of their fan favorites are Granny’s Gold, a scrumptious Granny Smith apple-flavored Riesling, and Razz Prairie, a raspberry-flavored Pinot Noir.
Although relatively small, the tasting room is warm and comfortable, even more so thanks to the winery’s friendly and helpful staff. You can also enjoy your wine and some tasty food from their micro menu on the expansive deck which overlooks the scenic woodlands.
The winery is open daily from 11am to 5pm, with extended hours until 7pm on Friday and Saturday Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends.
Alongside award-winning wine, Fawn Creek Winery is also known for its exciting live music, occurring weekly on weekends.
The winery also has a large pavilion and spacious picnic pavilion which can be rented out for family and business events. If that wasn’t enough, you can book a night or two at the beautiful Winery House, featuring two spacious bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a kitchen.
Editor’s Note: As this winery is well-known for their delicious fruity wines, you need to sample their Just Peachy Chardonnay. It has a gentle peach aroma and flavor, as well as a light and refreshing aftertaste.
Baraboo Bluff Winery: Award-winning Sangiovese
Another world-class winery in Wisconsin is the delightful Baraboo Bluff Winery, positioned high on the northwest of Baraboo. Despite only being established in 2015, they’ve quickly made a name for themselves as a high-quality winery.
Baraboo Bluff Winery’s 2019 Sangiovese was even awarded double gold at the 20th Annual Finger Lakes International Competition in 2020, which just proves their dedication and drive for producing phenomenal wines.
Wine tastings are available daily in the summer months, as well as Thursday through Monday after Labor Day until Memorial Weekend. The winery is open from 11am until 5pm and has a lovely little gift shop selling unique jewelry and wine-themed items.
Tastings cost $5 per person and include nine samples of their current wine releases, both a mixture of whites and reds. You can also use the winery’s space for private events like birthday celebrations and team meetings.
Editor’s Note: As the winery won an award for their excellent 2019 Sangiovese, it seems only fitting to buy a glass or bottle of it on your visit. It’s aged in French oak and has peppery undertones.
Von Stiehl Winery: Oldest Licensed Winery in Wisconsin
The stunning von Stiehl Winery is Wisconsin’s oldest licensed winery. They have been producing wine from Door County and Kewaunee County orchards, among other high-quality vineyards from the West Coast, since 1967.
Tastings are done in their striking 150-year-old tasting room, which boasts views of the Lake Michigan lakeshore. Pre-selected wine tasting costs $6 per person and includes eight samples of wines and ciders.
Seated tastings cost $20 per person and consist of six samples of different wines, accompanied by samples of food pairings. Members of staff will explain the history of the winery and even share a couple of spooky ghost stories about the estate.
The winery is open July through August from 9am until 5.30pm, or until 5pm September through October. Seated tastings are only available from 11am to 4pm.
Alongside wine tasting, von Stiehl Winery also holds tours and public events like live concerts on a regular basis. The estate can be rented out for vacations and comes with all the amenities you need for a relaxing retreat.
Editor’s Note: In the summer months, look out for the winery’s Summer Concert Series. You’ll get to experience fantastic live music and tasty wine, cider, or craft beer outside on their outdoor terrace.
Elmaro Vineyard: Beautiful Views
Elmaro Vineyard was named Wisconsin’s Winery of the Year in 2016, and it’s not hard to see why. With breathtaking surroundings and, more importantly, remarkable wines, this winery has a lot to offer you on your visit.
The tasting room is open Tuesday through Saturday from 12pm until 6pm, or until 5pm on Sunday. Tastings are done via pre-set flights.
You can also relax with a glass or bottle of wine in their vineyard or on their outdoor patio. Additionally, the winery offers a Picnic Package for sunny days.
You’ll spend a blissful afternoon on a private picnic site with a blanket and sun umbrella, and enjoy a bottle of wine and a picnic basket filled with tasty treats like artisanal sausages, nuts, fresh fruit, baguette, and cheeses. Sounds divine!
Elmaro Vineyard is available to rent out for private events like birthday parties and weddings. They also host an assortment of public events, from outdoor yoga to outdoor movie nights.
Editor’s Note: The winery’s 2018 Frontenac Gris is one of their highlight wines, a sweet dessert-style wine. It has notes of fruity apricot and gooey honey.
Villa Bellezza Winery: Italian-style Estate
The beautiful Villa Bellezza Winery is one of the best wineries in Wisconsin, boasting a spectacular Italian-style estate with great food and delicious wines.
In 2021, the winery was named Best Wisconsin Destination Venue and Best Winery Venue in the 2021 Wisconsin Bride Magazine Best of Awards, which shows their huge passion for creating outstanding wines.
There are a huge number of things to do at Villa Bellezza Winery, from wine tasting to tours, cooking classes to a Christmas market in the festive months. The grand villa and spacious outdoor areas can also be rented out for weddings.
The modern and stylish tasting room is as stunning as the rest of the estate, featuring high-tech screens that describe each of their wines. Tastings cost $5 per person and contain three samples of wines, but are complimentary for two people with the purchase of four bottles of wines.
Editor’s Note: For a nutty and berry-lightful beverage, taste the winery’s 2016 Marquette, a medium body fry wine. It has aromas and flavors of berry and roasted hazelnut.
Pieper Porch Winery and Vineyard: Woodland Views
Located on 11 acres of open woods in the Vernon Marsh, Pieper Porch Winery is rich with nature and stunning woodland views. Their beautiful landscape creates a homely and rustic atmosphere for sipping wine, especially when relaxing on their spacious outside porch.
Pieper Porch Winery produces an assortment of top-notch wines, including reds, whites, and fruity wines. Many of their beverages have won awards for their excellence, so you can see the amount of commitment and passion they pour into each of their wines.
The tasting room has a charming ambiance to it, which makes you feel right at home as soon as you walk through the door. It’s open daily May through December from 11am to 5pm.
All of their tastings are conducted through flights, of which there are five to choose from: Dry Wine Flight, Semi-Sweet Wine Flight, Sweet Wine Flight, and Pre-Selected Flight. Each flight costs only $5 and contains samples of five wines.
The wines included in the flights also change regularly throughout the month, which adds some diversity and ensures subsequent visits are never the same.
The winery can accommodate private events like birthday parties and bridal showers but only through January to April. They also host a Wine Garden event on a regular basis in which you can enjoy an evening of delicious wine on their porch.
Editor’s Note: As this winery has won awards for their fruity wine, you should definitely consider their refreshing Lemon Wine. It’s a summertime favorite!
The Blind Horse Restaurant and Winery: Casual and Chic Ambiance
From Napa Valley-style gourmet food to award-winning wines and exciting events, The Blind Horse Restaurant and Winery has it all. Featuring a warm and cozy tasting room, as well as a spectacular outdoor patio, the estate provides the ultimate atmosphere for wining and dining.
It’s open Tuesday to Wednesday from 11am to 7pm, Thursday to Saturday from 11am to 9pm, and Sunday from 11am to 5pm. The winery is surrounded by some truly breathtaking views, featuring vibrant flowers, bushes, trees, and even a grand statue of a horse
The onsite “Napa Valley-style” restaurant exudes a casual and chic ambiance, committed to serving you some of the most mouthwatering dishes in Wisconsin. They use only the freshest ingredients to produce creative food that is packed with flavor.
Live music takes place every weekend, so you can take in the charming atmosphere all while listening to talented musicians and bands. Food trucks also regularly frequent the estate, offering a range of delicious food.
The estate’s striking restored early 1900s barn called The Granary can also be hired out for private events. It features a hand-built bar, a new fireplace, and modern art to provide you with a visually appealing venue for special occasions.
Editor’s Note: If you want to indulge a little, the 2015 Vintner’s Blend is a gorgeous blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Petite Verdot, and Black Malvasia. It’s so delicious it was the double gold winner in the Fingerlakes International Wine Competition.
Captain’s Walk Winery: Welcoming Atmosphere
Captain’s Walk Winery, which shares the same owners of the marvelous von Stiehl Winery, crafts an array of spectacular Wisconsin wines.
Their gorgeous pre-Civil War building has been restored carefully to retain over 160 years of character and serves as a standout feature of this fantastic winery.
The tasting room is filled with history and offers plenty of cozy seating. Its friendly atmosphere will make you feel welcome as soon as you walk through the door.
Pre-selected tastings cost only $7 and include a sample of six wines and one cider. No reservation is needed too, so you can drop by anytime you’re free. The winery is open Monday from 11am to 5pm, Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to 7pm, and Sunday from 12pm to 4pm.
Captain’s Walk Winery offers a variety of delicious food items on Monday and Sunday, including gourmet flatbreads, artisan meat and cheese, and baguettes with herb butter.
If you’re able to pop down on either of these days, definitely consider doing so for a hearty meal to go with your wine.
Events take place frequently at Captain’s Walk Winery, from club member pick-up parties to annual wine tastings where you’ll get to sample upcoming releases before everyone else.
Additionally, if you’re having trouble selecting the right menu for a special occasion, why not opt for Captain Walk Winery? You can hire out the tasting room, bistro, lounge, or even the entire winery to accommodate small to large gatherings.
Editors’ Note: If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you need to taste the Captain’s Walk Fumé Blanc. Aromas of toffee, rose bloom, and caramel apple will first fill your nostrils, then flavors of pineapple, gooseberries, and butterscotch will warm your mouth. The aftertaste is refreshing citrus and lemongrass.
Drumlin Ridge Winery: Spacious Indoor and Outdoor Seating
Next is Drumlin Ridge Winery, a family-owned business that crafts a tasty assortment of red wines, white wines, rose wines, and ciders.
The rustic tasting room is open from 12pm to 6pm during the weekday except for Tuesday, with extended hours from 11am until 7pm on Friday and Saturday. Tastings are done via flights of either three or six wines of your choosing.
You can enjoy a variety of scrumptious food items from their small plate menu, including specialty pizzas, soft pretzels, artisan cheese boards, and mixed nuts.
There is plenty of indoor seating and outdoor seating, but the latter is particularly lovely, even when it’s chilly as it’s both covered and heated.
Editor’s Note: The winery’s St Croix 2017 is a must-drink on your visit. It’s medium-bodied with notes of smoke, leather, oak, tobacco, pine, and a touch of black pepper.
Final Thoughts
Wisconsin is certainly becoming a booming wine region, as you can see due to its wide range of wineries.
If you’re planning a trip to Wisconsin, be sure to check out any one of the wineries featured in this list. Not only do they have blissful views to soak in, but they also produce some of the best wines imaginable.
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