While Minnesota is known for its cold climate, there is still a surprising number of wineries scattered across the state. While there are plenty of places to grab a Minnesota-made glass of wine throughout the larger cities, there is something special about Minnesota's small-town wineries. Surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and loaded with charm, these 10 small town winers serve incredible local wines. You'll definitely want to visit - and soon.
1. Carlos Creek Winery - Alexandria
This northern Minnesota winery is not to be missed. Located on the outskirts of Alexandria, it is home to beautiful 22-acre grounds that grow many varieties of Minnesota grapes. Stop in to sample wine at any time of year. Address: 6693 County Road 34 Northwest, Alexandria.
2. Northern Hollow Winery - Grasston
This family-owned winery is located in the tiny town of Grasston, Minnesota. But don't let the town's population of 158 stop you from visiting. This winery has won awards for its wine. Tastings give you an opportunity to sample your new favorite wine. Stop in during warmer months to enjoy the patio area. Address: 6916 Canary Road, Grasston.
3. North Folk Winery - Harris
This beautiful winery is located in Harris, Minnesota, about 40 miles north of the Twin Cities. When you stop in, you'll be struck by the charming building, which includes a huge front porch perfect for wine tastings. And make sure to bring your appetite, because North Folk Winery also serves up some great small plates in the tasting room. Gourmet pizza night starts in May as well. You don't want to miss it! Address: 43150 Blackhawk Road, Harris.
4. Wild Mountain Winery - Taylors Falls
This gorgeous winery is at one of the highest points in Chisago County. Because of its location, it has beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Head up for a wine tasting in their beautiful tasting room. A sampling of 6 wines is $8, or try sampling all wines for $15. Address: 16906 Wild Mountain Road, Taylors Falls.
5. Alexis Bailly Vineyard - Hastings
This lovely vineyard in southeastern Minnesota is the perfect place to spend a warm spring or summer day. Their tasting room, open since 1978, has been the place to go for Minnesota grown wine for decades. Stop in to be part of the tradition today. Address: 18200 Kirby Avenue South, Hastings.
6. Cannon River Winery - Cannon Falls
Housed in a charming historic building in Cannon Falls, Minnesota, the Cannon River Winery sells many delicious wines for all different palates. Whether you love dry reds or sweet whites, the staff will help you find your new favorite. Address: 421 Mill Street West, Cannon Falls.
7. Indian Island Winery - Janesville
In the tiny town of Janesville - population: 2,200 - a lovely winery stands out as a great place to meet up with friends for an unusual outing. The 17-acre vineyard has 6,000 vines growing cold-hardy grapes to make some of the tastiest Minnesota wine around. This little winery proves that you don't have to be in a big town to deliver big flavor. Address: 18018 631st Avenue, Janesville.
8. Chanaska Creek Ranch and Winery - Kasota
Not only is this southern Minnesota winery pretty, but they have excellent wines that will please every member of your party. Stop in for a tour and a tasting of their delicious wines. Address: 1179 East Pearl Street, Kasota.
9. Next Chapter Winery - New Prague
This family-owned winery is located in the small town of New Prague, Minnesota. At its location about 50 miles south of the Twin Cities, they serve up generous samples of their barrel-aged wine in their charming Red Barn Tasting Room. While you're there, grab an appetizer and make a meal of it. Address: 16945 320th Street, New Prague.
10. Crow River Winery
Your experience at Crow River Winery will be unforgettable. Stroll the lovely vineyards on a warm day, see the wine-making facilities, and taste a sample - or two - of their excellent wines. And if you're hungry, order one of their tasty pizzas. You won't be sorry you did. Address: 14848 Highway 7 East, Hutchinson.
Have you been to any of these wineries? Do you have any recommendations? Let us know in the comments! And for more wine-tasting fun, check out the wine trolley tour through southern Minnesota.
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