Minnesota is well known for its harsh winters, blazing summers, and its serene landscapes surrounded by forests and 11,000+ lakes, but did you know that the North Star State is also a major producer of wine?
Minnesota grapes are bred to withstand the early frosts of this state bordering Canada, before flourishing in the warm Minnesota summer.
Thanks to a combination of weather, science, and a labor of love, wineries in Minnesota produce award-winning wine that is worth hopping in the car, paying the state a visit, and going to taste on-site.
Many vineyards are open year-round. Sip a cool glass of Frontenac Gris as you peer out across the acres of trellised grapes. In general, the best time to visit any winery is in the springtime before the summer crowds or in the fall to enjoy the changing colors and fall harvest events.
Check out these best wineries in Minnesota and discover your new favorite flavors, vineyards, and pairings. From wineries in northern Minnesota to your new favorite winery in southern Minnesota, we have options for everyone.
About the Minnesota Wine Valley
Minnesota is probably not the first place that comes to mind when thinking of wine production, yet it produces delicious wine. Minnesota has cold winters and hot summers with acres of fertile soil along with the Minnesota St. Croix and Mississippi Valleys.
In the 1970s, the Minnesota Grape Association was founded. With the help of the University of Minnesota and Elmer Swenson, research began into developing cold-hardy grapes that can withstand the fall temperatures of Minnesota and other northern states.
The University of Minnesota has 12 acres with over 12,000 vines for experimentation. They have hundreds of new varieties in testing phases that are cold-hardy, disease-resistant, and highly productive – as well as being mouthwateringly delicious!
Types of Grapes Grown in Minnesota
Many grape varieties are found in Minnesota, especially cold-hardy grapes. Grapes developed by the University of Minnesota include:
- Frontenac
- Frontenac Gris
- La Crescent
- Itasca
- Marquette
- Bluebell
- Edelweiss
- Swenson Red
Every year, experts study and cultivate more grapes to further the Minnesota wine industry’s success. Keep an eye out for Minnesota cold-hardy grape wines next time you visit your local liquor store!
Best Wineries in Minnesota to Visit
Minnesota has over 70 wineries across the North Star State. Each winery and vineyard is unique for the ambiance and the character the owners bring to their establishments.
Here are the top 15 best wineries in Minnesota worth visiting for a tasting or a tour.
1. Parley Lake Winery
The Parley Lake Winery in Minnesota is 125 acres of paradise. Parley Lake features tasting bars with a variety of Minnesota wines. It also features an on-site art gallery with works from local Minnesota artists. Sip on a glass of local wines as you explore the sculpture gardens on the scenic property.
Parley Lake Winery is one of the Minnesota wineries that has award-winning wines. This winery in Waconia is just a 30-40 minutes drive outside of Minneapolis. From the first sip, you will taste why the Parley Lake Winery has garnered over 200 medals from competitions around the globe.
This Minnesota vineyard is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays for tastings and exploration of the on-site art gallery. Grapes grown here include Marquette, Frontenac Gris, Frontenac Blanc, and more.
In July, the Parley Lake Winery hosts ArtStock, an event where the community gathers around artisan creations on canvas and inside of their glasses. Check the Parley Lake Winery events calendar for live music and other fun happenings.
Spend a romantic Valentine’s day at the Parley Lake Winery. Enjoy delicious food paired with wines and take a tour of the picturesque vineyards.
Weddings and events occur around the vineyards and orchards, with an intimate and rustic setting for up to 200 guests.
- Address: 8280 Parley Lake Rd, Waconia, MN, 55387
- Prices: Tastings are $15 per person for four wine samples, Guiding wine tastings are $30 per person.
- Best Time to Visit: Springtime and fall.
- Operating hours: Open seasonally May to December, on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays – call ahead to check.
See Related: Best Bars in Minneapolis (Ranked)
2. Cannon River Winery
The Cannon River Winery is part of the Great River Road Wine Trail and is one of the best wineries in Minnesota. Grapes are hand-picked at peak season to produce high-quality and award-winning wine. Grown in ideal soil conditions at high elevations along scenic south-facing slopes, the grapes here are perfect for an exquisite glass of wine.
The Cannon River Winery has more than 9,000 vines on 40 acres with views of the rolling hills of the Sogn Valley. It is a gorgeous setting for events and weddings and features two venues for rustic barn weddings.
Our favorite activity here is the Tableside Tasting which includes two flights of 6oz pours. A wine expert guides you through the different wines and makes each glass a sensory experience. You can enjoy tastings year-round.
During fall, you can even join the harvest. Pick your own grapes, and then taste the fruits of your labor! The experience includes a meal and wine tastings. Check out their events calendar for local comedy and music shows. Or dine at the Bitchin’ Kitchen with dishes that honor spirited women.
The GrandStay Hotel & Suites in Cannon Falls is an incredible hotel to enjoy before and after your wine tasting.
- Address: 421 Mill St W, Cannon Falls, MN, 55009
- Prices: Tableside Tasting $20 per person, Fall Harvest $25 per person.
- Best Time to Visit: Springtime and fall.
- Operating hours: Open seasonally from May to December. Monday to Thursday 12-7 pm; Friday-Saturday 12-9 pm; Sunday 12-6 pm.
See Related: Best State Parks in Minnesota to Visit
3. Crow River Winery
The Crow River Winery was founded in 2004 and is a top winery in Minnesota you simply cannot miss. Located 2-miles east of Hutchinson near Minneapolis, it is an easy getaway from the city. The Crow River Winery is part of the Luce Line Trail that is bikable. However, we do not advise drinking and biking!
The Crow River Winery uses sustainable agricultural practices when growing its cold-climate grapes. This winery has an extensive menu of fruit, red, white, and dessert wines to sample.
Host your wedding or event in their scenic venue space near the Crow River watershed and the great Minnesota prairie region. Popular events at the Crow River Winery include the yearly Grape Stomp, Mother’s Day Brunch, Pumpkin Fest, and more.
Wine tastings are done by flight, with five wine samples. Or you can enjoy wine pairings at the on-site Bistro serving delicious meals, including artisan pizza.
Production tours are a fun way to learn more about the process of making wine. Currently, thanks to the COVID-19 Pandemic, production tours are not available. Email Events@CrowRiverWinery.com for more information.
Spend a night at the Hampton Inn Hutchinson, enjoying the jacuzzi with a bottle of Crow River wine.
- Address: 14848 MN-7, Hutchinson, MN, 55350
- Prices: Not listed.
- Best Time to Visit: Springtime and fall.
- Operating hours: The tasting Room is open Sunday to Thursday 11 am-6 pm; Friday to Saturday 11 am-9 pm. The Bistro is open Sunday to Thursday 11 am-5 pm; Friday to Saturday 11 am-8 pm.
4. Winehaven Winery
The Winehaven Winery is true to its name and is a haven within the rolling hills of the Chisago Lakes Area and St. Croix River Valley. This family-owned winery was established in 1995. It uses sustainable farming practices to grow high-quality and award-worthy wines. Winehaven uses Minnesota grapes like Marquette and Frontenac, among many others.
You can participate in tastings by the glass, bottle, or flight with four 4oz samples. Pair delicious wine with pizzas from Minnesota and charcuterie from the on-site restaurant.
One of our favorite features about the Winehaven Winery is the wine slushies available for purchase on hot summer days.
Weddings are held here regularly with four different options for ceremony locations. The picturesque vineyards and two lakes are a lush backdrop for a day you will remember forever.
- Address: 10020 Deer Garden Ln, Chisago City, MN, 55013
- Prices: Tastings are $20 for four 4oz glasses.
- Best Time to Visit: Springtime and fall.
- Operating hours: Monday to Saturday 10 am-5 pm; Sunday 11 am-5 pm.
See Related: Best Hotels in Duluth, Minnesota
5. Schram Vineyards Winery & Brewery
The Schram Vineyards Winery and Brewery is one of the best wineries (and breweries for that matter) in Minnesota. The well-known vineyard (and brewery) is family-owned and operated and has been open to the public since 2013. The brewery launched in 2014, and Schram Vineyards Winery and Brewery became Minessota’s first winery and brewery that is singly operated and owned.
The vineyards have over 4,000 grapevines that produce award-winning wine. Tastings include a flight of five wines with detailed explanations of each one. Tastings are only available by reservation on weekends, so be sure to book in advance.
The vineyards, winery, and brewery tours occur from May to October. The kitchen is open for your enjoyment every day the vineyard operates.
Private events and small weddings are held within the rustic-chic tasting and taproom, the barrel room, or the outdoor pavilion. Weddings are only held here during weekdays and accommodate a maximum of 30 guests.
- Address: 8785 Airport Rd, Waconia, MN, 55387
- Prices: Tastings are $25 per person for five wine samples.
- Best Time to Visit: Springtime and fall.
- Operating hours: Closed Mondays and Tuesdays; Wednesday 2-8 pm; Thursday to Saturday 12-9 pm; Sundays 12-5 pm.
See Related: Best Breweries in Duluth Minnesota
6. Four Daughters Vineyard & Winery
The Four Daughters Vineyard and Winery is a 6-acre vineyard that grows fruits for wine and ciders. The three brands produced here are the Four Daughters wines, Sunflake wines, and Loon Juice hard cider.
Four Daughters was the official wine provider for the 2016 Sundance Film Festival. The Four Daughters boasts many impressive awards for the wines and ciders produced on the scenic undulating hills of this Minnesota winery.
Try out the different grape varieties at the on-site tasting room. Flights include six different options, after which enjoy a full glass of your favorite.
The scenic vineyard in Southeastern Minessota is an ideal setting for hosting weddings and private events. The winery regularly accommodates up to 300 guests as happy couples unite amidst trellised grapes.
- Address: 78757 MN-16, Spring Valley, MN, 55975
- Prices: Tastings are $10 per flight of six 1oz pours. Glasses are between $6-8, depending on the wine.
- Best Time to Visit: Springtime and fall
- Operating hours: Monday to Thursday 11 am-7 pm; Friday to Saturday 11 am-9 pm; Sundays 11 am-5 pm.
7. Saint Croix Vineyards
The Saint Croix Vineyards have been active for nearly three decades. Founded in 1992, the Saint Croix Vineyards offer the perfect setting for an afternoon of enjoying great weather and even better wine.
Enjoy wine tasting in the on-site tasting room in a restored barn. Saint Croix also offers winemaking tours where you make your own wine. Live music events, painting nights, and other fun happenings occur frequently, so check out the events calendar before you visit.
A feature we love about the Saint Croix Vineyards is that you are allowed to bring in lawn chairs and picnic blankets and spend the day enjoying the scenic grounds.
Enjoy a free tour at noon on Saturdays during the summer months between June to August.
Reservations are not accepted here, and service is on a first-come-first-serve basis.
- Address: 6428 Manning Ave N, Stillwater, MN, 55082
- Prices: Tastings are $14 for four 2oz samples or $8 per glass. Private tours are $25 per person.
- Best Time to Visit: Springtime and fall.
- Operating hours: Tasting Room is open Fridays to Sundays from 10 am-6 pm.
8. Millner Heritage Vineyard & Winery
The Millner Heritage Vineyard and Winery is a local favorite for Minnesota wines and entertaining tours. Open year-round, the Millner Heritage Vineyard and Winery sits on 9-acres of manicured vineyards with over 5,000 vines. The first vines were planted back in 2006.
The Millner Heritage Vineyard produces over 15 labels of wine and cider. Grapes grown here include cold-hardy grapes like Frontenac, Frontenac Gris, Marquette, Valiant, and more.
Tours of the vineyard and winery are available on weekends. Tours can be done separately or combined into one. The vineyard tour includes a ride in a vintage tractor around the lush gardens and grape trellises. You will learn all about the art and process of winemaking in the winery portion of the tour.
Celebrate your special day with a natural backdrop for your wedding photos. Weddings and events are hosted here regularly. The serene venue accommodates up to 250 guests.
- Address: 32025 MN-15, Kimball, MN, 55353
- Prices: Tastings are $7 per flight or $12 per glass. Vineyard and winery tour $7.50 per person.
- Best Time to Visit: Springtime and fall.
- Operating hours: January to March: Closed Monday to Thursday; Friday and Sunday 11 am-6 pm; Saturdays 11 am-7 pm. April to December: Closed Monday and Tuesday; Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday 11 am-6 pm; Friday and Saturday 11 am-8 pm.
9. Carlos Creek Winery
The Carlos Creek Winery is one of the best wineries in Minnesota and is the 2021 winner of Minnesota’s best patio. Also home to the 22 Northmen Brewing Company, here you can enjoy samples of wine and beer to get a wide taste of your favorite blends or brews. Located along the Skal Crawl Wine Trail, tastings are done daily via wine flights or by the glass.
A winery and brewery, the Carlos Creek Winery offers ciders, beer, red wines, rosé, white wines, and dessert wines. Many of the wines produced and sold at the Carlos Creek Winery are vegan and gluten-free and grown from cold-hardy Minnesota grapes.
The vineyards and fields are 160 acres of picturesque landscapes. Take epic wedding or engagement photos among the oak barrels and lush trellises. Weddings held here are stress-free. The space accommodates 350 guests, and the capable events team takes care of every detail.
Check out the Carlos Creek Winery events calendar for regular live music nights, pairing nights, and trivia nights.
- Address: 6693 County Rd 34 NW, Alexandria, MN, 56308
- Prices: Wine flights and a souvenir wine glass $11-14 per person
- Best Time to Visit: Springtime and fall.
- Operating hours: Closed Mondays and Tuesdays; Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday 12-6 pm; Fridays and Saturdays 12-7 pm.
See Related: Best Breweries in St. Paul
10. Wild Mountain Winery
The Wild Mountain Winery is a family-owned vineyard founded in 2010 along the upper St. Croix Wine Trail. One of the best features of Wild Mountain Winery is that you can bring your dog and camp on the premises. Set up your tent with your friends and furry friends and spend the night enjoying the beautiful hills and Minnesota landscapes.
The Wild Mountain Winery is on 15.5-acres of land with vineyards and orchards. The winery hosts live music every Saturday night and tastings every weekend. There are sixteen different wines ready to taste. Enjoy them by the glass or in wine flights.
The Wild Mountain Winery does not host weddings or events.
- Address: 16906 Wild Mountain Rd, Taylors Falls, MN, 55084
- Prices: Tastings are $8 for six 1oz pours.
- Best Time to Visit: Springtime and fall.
- Operating hours: Closed Mondays to Thurdays. Fridays 2-6 pm; Saturdays and Sundays 12-6 pm.
11. Alexis Bailly Vineyard
The Alexis Bailly Vineyard was founded in 1973 by the Bailly family and is one of the only Minnesota wineries where you can rent your own yurt!
Spend two hours drinking wine in a private yurt amidst the landscaped vineyards and grape trellises. You can order food, wine flights, bottles, and glasses delivered directly to your yurt for you and up to 6 friends to enjoy.
In wintertime, the yurts have heaters, so enjoy this experience year-round. The Alexis Bailly Vineyard hosts jazz on Sundays. You can check the jazz calendar for full details.
A feature we enjoy about the Alexis Bailly Vineyard is that the official website includes delicious recipes for wine-flavored foods that have you looking like a chef.
All wines from the Alexis Bailly Vineyard are vegan. Join the wine club with the purchase of two wine selections for discounts.
The Alexis Bailly Vineyard does not host events or weddings.
- Address: 18200 Kirby Ave So., Hastings, MN, 55033
- Prices: Yurts are $50 to rent. Prices vary based on the food and wines ordered.
- Best Time to Visit: Springtime and fall.
- Operating hours: Weekends 12-5 pm.
12. Morgan Creek Vineyards and Winery
The Morgan Creek Vineyards and Winery Minnesota are right along the Upper Midwest Minnesota River Valley water basin. This area is home to some of the world’s most fertile soils, perfect for growing cold-hardy grapes.
The Morgan Creek Vineyards and Winery host jazz nights on Saturdays as well as other fun local happenings like Earthday, Mother’s Day, Sunday Yoga, and more.
Enjoy wine tastings either self-guided or privately with a winemaker master. Private wine tastings include a lesson on how grapes are grown in Minnesota and the process of winemaking.
Private events are by reservation, so submit a contact form for inquiries.
- Address: 23707 478th Ave, New Ulm, MN, 56073
- Prices: Tastings of four wine samples are $10 per person. Private Group wine tasting dinners are $25 per person (20-50 guests). Private wine tastings are $25 per person.
- Best Time to Visit: Springtime and fall.
- Operating hours: Closed November to March. April open Saturdays from 11 am-5 pm; May open Saturdays from 11 am-9 pm; June open Saturdays from 11 am-9 pm and Sundays 11 am-2 pm; July to October open Fridays 4-9 pm, Saturdays 11 am-9 pm, and Sundays 11 am-2 pm.
13. 7 Vines Vineyard
The 7 Vines Vineyard is one of our fave Twin Cities wineries worth checking out on your next trip near St. Paul and Minneapolis. Founded in 2012, the 7 Vines Vineyard has over 7,000 grapevines over more than 10 acres.
7 Vines grows cold-hardy grape varieties developed by the University of Minnesota like Marquette, Frontenac, Frontenac Blanc, Frontenac Gris, Itasca, and La Crescent.
Wine tasting experiences include an overview of the winery, Minnesota grape growing, and winemaking philosophies. Tastings are paired with artisanal cheeses, and guests receive a 7 Vines souvenir glass to take home.
Private events are held at the 7 Vines Vineyard regularly. The 10 acres of scenic Minnesota landscapes have indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces for weddings and events.
- Address: 101 MN-96, Dellwood, MN, 55110
- Prices: Tastings are $35 per person. Three 3oz flights for $16; customized flights with three wine samples $17.
- Best Time to Visit: Springtime and fall.
- Operating hours: Closed Mondays and Tuesdays; Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays 3-9 pm; Saturday and Sunday 12-6 pm.
See Related: Best Breweries in Rochester Minnesota
14. Urban Forage Winery and Cider House
The Urban Forage Winery and Cider House is one of the best Minnesota wineries within the Twin Cities. It is a unique project that uses local fruits from gardeners around Minnesota to produce small-batch ciders and wines from sustainable and, most of the time, organic sources.
The owner, Jeff, began making cider in his dorm room at the University of Minnesota and has been honing his craft for over three decades. The Urban Forge is open five days a week with offerings that change weekly, a nice surprise even for regulars.
Tours and tastings are on Sundays, otherwise, head to the taproom on Wednesday-Sunday and enjoy the flavors of the week. All hard ciders, meads, wines, and fruit or vegetable wines are gluten-free.
You can rent the Urban Forage Winery and Cider House for meetings, events, and weddings. Email urbanforagewinery@gmail.com for details.
Stay in the Royal Sonesta Minneapolis Downtown for comfortable lodgings in the twin cities.
- Address: 3016 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN, 55406
- Prices: Tastings via wine flight with four samples are $15. Prices for bottles and glasses vary.
- Best Time to Visit: Sundays for tours or Thursdays for trivia night.
- Operating hours: Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Wednesdays to Fridays 4-9 pm; Saturdays 1-9 pm; Sundays 1-5 pm.
15. Salem Glen Winery
The Salem Glen Winery is an idyllic setting surrounded by 12 acres of vineyards and manicured grounds. The Salem Glen Winery is one of the family-owned and operated vineyards in Minnesota.
This boutique winery was founded in 2006, and it has since produced small wine batches from cold-hardy Minnesota grapes. Recently the Salem Glen Winery has expanded to offer ciders with new flavors coming out every year.
During your tour of the winery, say hi to Haley, the vineyard dog, who guards the vines against pests trying to eat the grapes and leaves.
Cider tastings, wine flights, and wine by the glass are regularly enjoyed on the patio overlooking the rolling hills and gardens or from the windowed tasting room. Enjoy artisan wood-fired pizza on Friday nights by reservation.
The winery host various private events – including weddings! The space can accommodate up to 60 guests, so you might want to consider it for your next event.
The Salem Glen Winery has an observatory in construction. Soon you will be able to enjoy epic views of the starry night skies with a cup of your favorite wine in hand.
- Address: 5211 60th Ave SW, Rochester, MN, 55902
- Prices: Wine tastings with six samples are $15 per person.
- Best Time to Visit: Friday nights for artisan pizza and drinks.
- Operating hours: June-September; Thursdays to Saturdays 12-8 pm; Sundays 12-5 pm. October to May; Thursdays to Saturdays 12-7 pm; Sundays 12-5 pm.
Bonus: Next Chapter Winery
The Next Chapter Winery is a peaceful family-owned winery in Minnesota. This is one of the MN vineyards that is easy to get to from the Twin Cities located about 30 minutes from the city.
The moment you come through the main entrance, you will see the big red barn that is open year-round for tastings and events. Depending on the season, events like bingo nights, live music, trivia nights, improv nights, and more are hosted on the Next Chapter Patio or Red Barn.
The Next Chapter Winery offers estate-grown wines from Minnesota and California grapes to create delicious blends. Wine flights, wine by the glass, cocktails, and beer are all on the menu to satiate your thirst, no matter your style.
The Next Chapter Winery has three different indoor and outdoor venue options for rustic and elegant weddings or private events and celebrations.
- Address: 16945 320th St, New Prague, MN, 56071
- Prices: Tastings are $9 for three 2oz pours or $13 for three 3oz pours.
- Best Time to Visit: Wintertime brings fewer crowds and beautiful scenery. The Red Barn is heated during the wintertime.
- Operating hours: Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Wednesdays and Thursdays 5-8 pm; Fridays 3-8 pm; Saturdays and Sundays 12-5 pm.
Other Winery Guides
Related Minnesota Resources
- Best Small Towns in Minnesota to Visit
- Best Lake Towns in Minnesota to Visit
- Best Honeymoon Destinations in Minnesota
- Best Credit Cards For Travel Perks
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