Vineyard roots run deep throughout the area, with smaller, boutique wineries crafting vintages that really typically punch above their weight when it concerns variety, quality and taste. Hopping on a white wine trail is a convenient and enjoyable way for wine-lovers to attempt offerings from numerous various wineries, and the country’s midsection has some excellent, scenic paths well worth checking out. Here are 8 wine trails to explore in the Midwest, plus recommendations to make the most of your trip.
Driftless Wine and Cheese Trail, Wisconsin
In a state that produces more than 600 kinds of cheese, there are plenty of chances to sample it all across Wisconsin And what could pair better with locally crafted fromage than a glass or two of in your area produced red wine? You’ll discover both along the Driftless Wisconsin Wine and Cheese Trail in the southwestern part of the state. Make certain to stop and patronize Carr Valley Cheese, known for their awards (more than 850!) and perfect curds. When you’ve polished off your squeakers, head to Wollersheim Winery and Distillery. This historic area overlooking the Wisconsin River uses trips in addition to tastings of their red wines and distilled spirits, including high-proof absinthe for the bravest in your group!
Great River Road Wine Trail, Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Including eight wineries spread out across three states, the Great River Road Wine Trail deals with guests to outstanding vintages and unbelievable views of the Mississippi River, plus it swings through some sweet, smaller towns. Garvin Heights Vineyards, set into the bluffs just outside the city limits of Winona, Minnesota, makes a variety of reds, whites, roses and blends on-site. If you want to integrate your red wine experience with America’s preferred activity (baseball), struck up DnA Vintners in La Crosse, Wisconsin, famous for its cranberry white wine. Later, walk a block away to the Lumberyard, where the La Crosse Loggers play during the summer. The baseball group is part of the Northwoods League, including a few of the country’s top college professional athletes.
Hermann Wine Trail, Missouri
Today, visitors can examine out seven family-owned wineries along the Hermann Wine Trail and pleasure in the town’s red-brick charm. Those looking for a little bit more experience may consider leasing a bike and cruising the neighboring Katy Trail, a previous railway route turned into a flat, 240-mile trail that crosses through the heart of the state.
Lake Erie Shores and Islands Wine Trail, Ohio
Rieslings and Chardonnays especially like the lake breezes and cooler temps, so you’ll see plenty of each variety at the 18 wineries along the Lake Erie Shores and Islands Wine Trail. Be sure to examine out the “wine islands” just north of Sandusky; Crooked Tree on Kelleys Island is particularly photogenic.
Loess Hills District Wine Trail, Iowa
The deep soil along the Loess Hills District Wine Trail enables vine roots to grow long and strong into the ground. The Loess Hills National Scenic Byway passes wineries like Prairie Crossing, which utilizes lesser-known Iowa-grown grapes including Frontenac, St. Croix and Brianna in its white wines.
Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail, Michigan
With its miles of coastline along Grand Traverse Bay, charming towns and acres of cherry orchards, the Traverse City location has actually long been a family-favorite location. Wine-lovers understand there’s likewise something magnificent waiting for them, too. With 10 wineries featuring a huge variety of varietals, the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail is an experience you’ll want to add to your Traverse itinerary. Many of Old Mission’s wineries offer comfortable and practical on-site lodging, making it simple to stay the evening after a day of sampling. Be sure to check out Brys Estate’s secret garden, a lots acres with more than 6,000 lavender bushes. When you’re done roaming, stock up on lavender-based items including creams, lip balms and even ice cream in the present store. If you’re visiting Old Mission during the warmer months, take a beach break. Haserot is a favorite with residents and visitors alike. (And if you’re searching for more wine destinations, the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail is just a hop away.).
Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, Illinois.
Eleven wineries in captivating villages dot the highways around the Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois, thrilling both wine-lovers and outside enthusiasts. Take breaks from treking, cycling and exploring by drinking and sampling the locally grown vintages at wineries like acclaimed Blue Sky Vineyard along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. About 40 miles east, active travelers can quickly hike the quarter-mile observation trail at the Garden of the Gods, take in the vistas and imposing rock developments, then reward themselves with an afternoon of wine sampling and an over night stay.
Fun truth: The Shawnee Hills trail is on the path of totality for the overall solar eclipse taking place on April 8, 2024. Visitors can expect more than 4 minutes of darkness, and accommodations are already scheduling up for the out-of-this-world occasion!
Uplands Wine Trail, Indiana.
In south-central Indiana, 9 wineries consist of the Indiana Uplands Wine Trail. In a landscape of rolling hills and rocky outcrops, the soil here is conducive for grape development– in fact, the Indiana Uplands has been the center of the state’s white wine production for more than 170 years. The Huber family began planting vineyards in the 1840s. After Prohibition was eliminated, the Hubers replanted the grapes and ultimately established Huber Winery (the family’s seventh generation still works the vines). Love increased? Try Huber’s Stella di Luce, a dry, Spanish-style rosado.
For a German-style red wine experience, include a stop at Winzerwald. Its fruit white wine offerings consist of blueberry, cherry and peach, plus German favorites Riesling and Gewürztraminer. (We suggest going all out and combine your tasting with a huge Bavarian-style pretzel.).
