Your guide to 5 of Wisconsin’s best wineries

Get to know the grapes at one of Wisconsin’s wineries.

Wisconsin may be best known for its cheese and beer, but the state also boasts a thriving wine industry that is gaining recognition for its high-quality wines and picturesque vineyards. From the rolling hills of the Driftless Area to the shores of Lake Michigan, Wisconsin’s wineries offer a unique blend of Midwestern hospitality, beautiful scenery, and diverse wine selections. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a relaxing day trip, the state’s wineries provide a delightful experience for all. Here’s a closer look at some of Wisconsin’s standout wineries, each offering something special for visitors.

1. Wollersheim Winery & Distillery

Located in Prairie du Sac, Wollersheim Winery & Distillery is one of Wisconsin’s most historic and celebrated wineries. Founded in the 1840s by European immigrants, Wollersheim has a long tradition of winemaking that continues to this day. The winery is situated on a picturesque hillside overlooking the Wisconsin River, and its beautiful stone buildings add to the charm of the location. Wollersheim is known for its award-winning Prairie Fumé, a crisp, semi-dry white wine that has become a favorite among wine lovers.

The winery also produces a variety of other wines, including reds, rosés, and dessert wines. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, tastings, and even explore the on-site distillery, which offers a range of spirits including brandy and gin.

2. Door Peninsula Winery

In the heart of Door County, Door Peninsula Winery has been a staple of the region’s wine scene since 1974. The winery is housed in a former schoolhouse in Carlsville, adding a touch of history to its rustic charm. Door Peninsula Winery is known for its wide range of fruit wines, made from locally grown cherries, apples, and other fruits that are abundant in the area. Favorites like the Sweet Cherry Wine and the Cranberry Wine capture the essence of Door County’s agricultural bounty.

The winery also offers traditional grape wines, ciders, and a selection of gourmet foods in its expansive tasting room. Door Peninsula Winery’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the scenic Door County peninsula.

3. Cedar Creek Winery

Cedar Creek Winery, located in the charming town of Cedarburg, combines small-town charm with exceptional winemaking. Housed in a historic 1860s woolen mill, the winery is part of the Cedar Creek Settlement, a popular destination for shopping, dining, and art galleries. Cedar Creek Winery is known for its award-winning Marquette, a robust red wine with notes of cherry and spice, as well as its refreshing Cedarburg Spice, a spiced red wine that’s perfect for chilly Wisconsin evenings.

The winery offers tastings and tours, allowing visitors to learn about the winemaking process while enjoying the ambiance of the historic building. Cedar Creek Winery’s combination of history, quality wine, and a charming setting makes it a favorite among both locals and tourists.

4. Parallel 44 Vineyard & Winery

Nestled in the rolling hills of Kewaunee County, Parallel 44 Vineyard & Winery is a testament to the resilience and innovation of Wisconsin’s wine industry. The winery takes its name from the 44th parallel, the same latitude that runs through the renowned wine regions of Bordeaux and Tuscany. Parallel 44 specializes in cold-climate grape varieties that thrive in Wisconsin’s challenging weather conditions. The result is a selection of wines that are both unique and expressive of the region’s terroir.

Standouts include the La Crescent, a semi-sweet white wine with floral and citrus notes, and the Frozen Tundra series, which offers a range of red, white, and rosé wines that showcase the versatility of cold-hardy grapes. Visitors to Parallel 44 can enjoy tastings in the modern tasting room or take a stroll through the vineyard to fully appreciate the beauty of the location.

5. Chateau St. Croix Winery

Chateau St. Croix Winery, located near the St. Croix River in the town of St. Croix Falls, offers a touch of European elegance in the heart of Wisconsin. The winery is designed to resemble a French chateau, complete with a stone castle, formal gardens, and a tranquil pond. Chateau St. Croix produces a range of wines, from dry reds like the bold Merlot to sweet whites like the Riesling.

The winery is also known for its events, including wine festivals, art fairs, and live music performances, making it a lively destination throughout the year. The combination of exquisite wines, stunning architecture, and a vibrant events calendar makes Chateau St. Croix a standout in Wisconsin’s wine country.

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This story was generated in part by AI and edited by UpNorthNews staff.