“Wait – Wisconsin has wineries?!” – everyone’s reaction when I told them I was going on ‘lil Wisconsin wine tasting tour. Yes, beer and cheese curds absolutely will always reign as supreme Wisconsin cuisines, but the wine industry here is really starting to pop off lately.
These are the best Wisconsin wineries to visit for your wine tasting weekend. Some even have fun events like live music and wine-paired dinners! Let’s go.
I grew up near Madison but moved to San Francisco after college. I’m spoiled out here – I get to visit Napa Valley and Sonoma wine country all the time and have become a low-key wine snob, something I really never thought would happen.
When visiting family recently, I was really surprised to learn that Wisconsin vineyards are not only a thing, but there’s way more wineries in Wisconsin than I realized. So of course, I had to plan a visit to some to check them out!
Big thank you to my father who was not only a fantastic Instagram husband, but who helped me write this guide as he’s been to way more Wisconsin wineries than I could fit into my visit home.
What Kind Of Wine Is Wisconsin Known For?
I was surprised to learn that grapevines could even grow in Wisconsin, to be honest. The harsh winters are just too much for producing wine, but there is more than one winery in Wisconsin that has figured out how to make it work.
Many wineries DO import grapes from California, Oregon, Washington, The Finger Lakes and other regions, but you can absolutely find wineries that produce estate grown wine. These grapes will vary based on the location and microclimate of that region (maybe that particular valley was part of the Driftless zone and thus has much minerals in the soil, or maybe it’s close to a lake or the Mississippi River, etc).
I saw Rosé, Riesling, Chardonnay, Piquette, red blends and other varietals on menus that I straight up have never seen on a wine tasting menu before in California (like Seyval Blanc which is similar to Sauvignon Blanc).
But again, it’s hard to grow a grape in Wisconsin, so many wineries lean on producing wine made from other fruits, like locally grown cherries, blueberries, cranberries, or raspberries.
Anyone else thinking of this scene from Schitt’s Creek?
Overall, I found Wisconsin wines to lean sweet or tart, with many dessert wines and fruit wines on menus. Even wineries that import grapes from other states tend to produce that wine in a very different way than California. The wineries Wisconsin has are their own thing, their own art form.
23 Best Wisconsin Wineries To Wine Taste At
Home to delicious varieties of Baco Noir, Chardonnay St. Croix and much more, Wisconsin is a hidden gem of wine country. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, Wisconsin wineries are unique experience with over 100 wineries to choose from. Use this list of best wineries in Wisconsin to help you plan the best wine-tasting weekend!! I highlight the best tours, wineries with fun events like live music, spots with good vibes and of course, the tasting rooms with the best wine Wisconsin has to offer.
Location: Prairie Du Sac
Open: Daily Noon - 5pm
Wollersheim was my favorite of the Southern Wisconsin wineries we visited. I found this closest to what you find in California (think stunning historic chateau vibes with ivy crawling up and an actual wine cave). They also do have a few estate-grown wines available in different grape varieties which was exciting to see!
Wollersheim offers seated wine and cheese pairings, along with tours and tastings at the bar. Some favorites are Prairie Fume and their Dry Riesling. They even offer something called Ice Wine, which I wasn't able to try, but it's when the grapes are harvested while frozen.
Next door there is the Wollersheim Distillery, which you have to check out as well! You can do a flight, grab co*cktails or buy bottles to take home. It's the best winery distillery in the state, in my opinion. If you're looking for wineries near Madison WI that have food and outdoor seating for a lazy afternoon, this is your spot!
Rock and Wool Winery
Location: Poynette (22 miles from Madison)
The Rock and Wool Winery is located in the heart of Poynette. This Madison WI winery is set in a large barn with a cool rustic vibe inside. The winery offers unique fruit wines (the blueberry wine is a must-try!), using only Wisconsin grapes. Sip and relax in the indoor and outdoor seating areas - so you can visit whatever the weather. There are sometimes hayrides after planned tastings to their sheep heard (that’s where the wool part of Rock and Wool comes from). If you’re looking for something a little different, the winery is always on the lookout for volunteers to help stomp grapes during the fall. It’ll give you a chance to learn how the Rock and Wool Winery gets their grapes from farm to table to produce such delicious wine.
Photo Credit:Von Stiehl Winery
Von Stiehl Winery
Location: Algoma (Door County)
Open: Daily, hours vary by season
Von Stiehl is the oldest licensed winery in Wisconsin! It all started circa 1868 with their Door County Cherry Wine. It's so iconic, you simply have to visit if you're ever up north in Door County! It's located in Algoma right on the Ahnapee River and a few blocks from Lake Michigan. They source grapes from Door County and Kewaunee County, along west vineyards on the West Coast.
They don't just make wine, they also serve up cider! Come in the summer to sit on their terrace overlooking the Algoma Harbor and grab yourself wine, cider, or wine slushies if the day is particularly hot. Or in the wine to cozy up next to their indoor fireplace. Not a lot of places are open year-round and daily, but Von Stiehl Winery sure is. This summer when you visit Sturgeon Bay, swing by this famous Door County Winery.
Nineteen09
Location: Cross Plains (14 miles from Madison)
Although Nighnteen09 is actually a wine bar, not a winery, the wine is so outstanding, it just had to be added to this list. This is where we celebrated our last night in town!
Relax with the choice of indoor and outdoor searing to try some of Wisconsin's best wines, plus other favorites from around the world. (I spotted a few of my favorite California vineyards here!) They have a fun pour your own glass model so you can sample tons of wine.
You can even pair your wine and order a delicious cheese plate! They have some fantastic events too. Bring your furry friends to the wine garden on dedicated days or enjoy fantastic cheese and wine tastings. If you're looking for Madison wineries but are willing for a wee little drive, Nineteen09 makes a perfect day out.
Wisconsin Dells (59 miles from Madison)
Fawn Creek Winery is set right in the Del Prairie pine forest and feels very Northern Wisconsin. This winery is a family-run business with six tasting bars and fantastic open deck seating. Fawn Creek serves up cheese and wine, and you’re welcome to bring a picnic too. There are live music events on Saturdays and Sundays on the stunning WAMI award-winning stage during the summer. During the winter and early spring, on Saturdays, enjoy live music in Fawn Creek’s very own heated pavilion!
Photo Credit:Botham Vineyards
Botham Vineyards
Location: Barneveld (25 miles from Madison)
Located in a large red barn surrounded by vineyards, Botham vineyards offers unique wine tasting experiences, where the first three tastings are free! Badger Blush, Big Stuff Red, Uplands Reserve, and Vin 10 are popular wines here. You can also book a tour of the winery (and add on a tasting if you please) or simply relax with a great glass of wine - dreamy AF. Botham Vineyards hosts many events, from live music events to car shows throughout the year, so make sure you check the website for details and head over to Southwest Wisconsin.
Photo Credit:Bailey’s Run Vineyard
Bailey’s Run Vineyard
Location: New Glarus
Bailey’s Run has one of the best views. This New Glarus winery is set on a hill in a picturesque setting, so your wine tasting will be even more perfect. You may even get the chance to meet Bailey, the wine owner’s dog - a big poodle (just too cute) if that doesn’t persuade you. The vineyard also offers some unique events and experiences. Listen to live bands, try the wine jello shots or try your hand at wine-o-bingo. Why not try a wine-chocolate pairing? Keep in mind that Edelweiss is the best white here.
Photo Credit:Hawk's Mill Ranch Winery
Hawk's Mill Ranch Winery
Location: Browntown (40 miles from Madison)
The Hawk's Mill Wisconsin Winery combines delicious wines with a relaxing environment overlooking DNR’s Casis Springs Park. Enjoy tastings and tours, visit a live music event, and enjoy stone oven pizza. There are even llamas on the property!
Photo Credit:Parallel 44
Parallel 44
Location: Sturgeon Bay
Parallel 44 makes a great day out outside of Green Bay. Explore the stunning 10-acre vineyard or relax on the gorgeous patio. Order wine flights, find your favorite Wisconsin wine, or order by the bottle and enjoy the views. Why not also visit Door 44, the sister venue, with a 6-acre vineyard. Both venues are located at 44 degrees North Lattitude - also well known as one of the world’s best winemaking regions.
Photo Credit:Staller Estate Winery
Staller Estate Winery
Location: County Hwy A Delavan (47 miles from Milwaukee)
Get the girls together and discover one of the best rural west Winsconsin wineries. This beautiful estate winery offers unique tasting experiences. Why not add on a winery tour or even a barrel cellar experience. This is a winery not to be missed.
Photo Credit:Baraboo Bluff Winery
Baraboo Bluff Winery
Location: Baraboo
If you like rich blends of wine, this winery is the one to visit. Opening in 2015, Baraboo Bluff is one of the newer wineries in Wisconsin, but you wouldn't guess. In fact, Baraboo Bluff is one of the best wineries in Winsconsin dells and one of the best Winsconsin wine brands. Stroll through the picturesque vines or bring a delicious picnic. Feel free to bring your furry friend along too. Tastings are available on set dates, where you can edge in 5, yes five current wine releases, and decide whether you’d prefer sweet or dry. You can then enjoy each sip from vine to table. Amazing! These guys have also just opened up a sister winery - the Broken Bottle, which has tasting bars, outdoor seating, and a small-town rustic vibe that can’t be missed.
Photo Credit:Captain's Walk Winery
Captain's Walk Winery
Location: Green Bay
Right in the heart of Green Bay, the Captain’s walk is perfect for a quick glass of wine with the girls or a quick pit stop before a Packers game; this is one of Wisconsin's best tastings where you’ll try 6 wines and 1 cider. Why not make a meal of it? The Captain's Bistro serves up artisan cheeses, gourmet flatbreads, and delicious meats. We highly recommend you get one of the pairings from the gallery!
Photo Credit:Cedar Creek Winery
Cedar Creek Winery
Location: Cedarburg (22 miles from Milwaukee)
The stunning wine tasting building was built in 1864, and it’s covered in ivy, set just behind a scenic river - perfect for that Instagram shot! At this Miluakee winery, you can visit for a glass or 2, try wine pairings, or join in with some wine tasting. Wines are fermented in the limestone cellars in oak barrels for that ideal taste. Specialty tastings are also available on set days - try the ‘berry blast’ and try all Cedar Creel’s Berry Wines with sweet treat pairings or the ‘Port Palooza’ for some port tastings with sweet and savory delights. Cedar Creek is the nearest highly recommended Milwaukee winery and makes a perfect day out if you're searching for wine-tasting Milwaukee.
Photo Credit:Mona Rose Winery
Mona Rose Winery
Location: Green Bay
The Mona Rose Winery is a must-visit on any trip to East Wisconsin. Step into the cozy and inviting tasting room and enjoy the intimate seating area along with specialty cheeses and pairings, not to mention the choices of local microbrews. The winery specializes in small-batch and hand-crafted wines.
Photo Credit:River Bend Vineyard & Winery
Location: Chippewa Falls (53 miles from St Paul, Minnesota)
This is one you can truly make a day out of. Enjoy wine tasting utterly free of charge and discover that perfect wine to enjoy with the girls. Sit back and relax on the gorgeous patio for an unforgettable experience.
Photo Credit:Apple Barn Orchard and Winery
Apple Barn Orchard and Winery
Location: Elkhorn
This unique River Valley orchard winery is set in a rural location in the turtle valley - the perfect spot to get away from it all. Apple Barn specializes in fruit wines made from grown on-site berries. Try delicious flavors like the hardy pear and the honey crisp apple. It’s not just wines you can expect here! Try the exquisite apple cider and the mouthwatering apple doughnuts.
Photo Credit:American Wine Project
American Wine Project
Location: Mineral Point (52 miles from Madison)
The American WIne Project is the perfect break from day-to-day life. There are some delicious wines to try, all with unique names. Taste the unique ‘Social Creature’ rose wine or indulge in the ‘2019 Summerland Brianna’. Why not discover your favorite wine with the girls at one of American Wine Project’s bookable tasting sessions before relaxing out in the acre of beautifully maintained gardens and outdoor seating. Enjoy your wine in a tranquil setting, surrounded by beautiful smells and colors.
Photo Credit:Maiden Rock Winery
Maiden Rock Winery
Location: Stockholm (55 miles from Eau Claire)
Whether you’re a wine person or a cider person, this winery has it all. The winery is part of the Great River Road Wine Trail, 1 of 11 venues - founded in 2009 to showcase Wisconsin's best wine and wineries. Maiden Rock produces delicious gluten-free hard ciders and wines in a mesmerizing setting. If that’s not enough, imagine getting to Maiden Rock on a paddlewheel riverboat wine and cider cruise. Hop on board the ‘La Crosse Queenas’ and glide down the Mississippi River, with great company, stunning views, warm and cold appetizers, and some of the best wine in Wisconsin. What are you waiting for? Maiden Rock winery also offers private events.
Photo Credit:Elmaro Vineyard
Elmaro Vineyard
Location: Trempealeau (23 miles from La Crosse)
If you're looking for wineries in Western Winsconsin, Elmaro Vineyard is the perfect country escape. Suppose you’re looking for the ideal location for a first date, an anniversary, or something special. In that case, Elmaro vineyard offers a beautiful private picnic site, where you can choose that perfect bottle of wine before collecting a picnic basket packed to the brim with cheeses, a baguette, fresh fruit, and more. Relax on the beautiful outdoor patio seating with stunning views all around and enjoy a bottle of wine accompanied by a delicious cheese plate. If that’s not romantic enough, you can also have an Elmaro Vineyard wedding for memories that last a lifetime. To find that perfect wine, why not enjoy a wine flight.
Photo Credit:Three Lakes Winery
Three Lakes Winery
Location: Three Lakes (21 miles from Rhinelander)
Love cranberries? You'll love this place. Since 1972, Three Lakes has been producing top-quality cranberry wine. The venue also hosts tastings to try up to 6 - yes 6 wines for FREE. There are also specialty foods and cute gifts available to buy. Three lakes are also one of the only wineries in Wisconsin to offer winery tours, where you can see the equipment and learn all about the production with knowledgeable guides.
Photo Credit:Infinity Beverages Winery
Infinity Beverages Winery
Location: Eau Claire
This Eau Claire winery and distillery is a must-visit on any trip to Wisconsin. Matthew, the owner, was once the youngest commercial winemaker and distiller in Wisconsin. With so many years of experience, you can be assured the wine tastes fantastic. Discover the tasting lounge where you can sample various wines and spirits, book a tour and tasting and discover more about this beautiful venue.
Photo Credit:Studio Winery
Studio Winery
Location: Lake Geneva
The studio winery is truly unique, and there’s so much on offer! Discover your favorite wine in the tasting room. Try the gorgeous wines accompanied by some mouthwatering light bites, from chevre goats cheese to Frescatrano olives and prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella. Once you’ve finished tasting, why not finish off with a co*cktail? There’s even live music on set days - the perfect vibe for an ideal time. If you love it, why not join Studio’s Rock Star club. The wine club offers fans a chance to get a wide range of discounts on wine and discounts on events for you and your groupies.
Photo Credit:Door County Trolley Tours
Door County Trolley Tours
Location: Door County
Up in Door County and looking for a fun day activity? Take this 5 hour winery tour on a street trolley! They'll drive you to the best spots in town so you can drink all the wine you want. SCORE.
Wisconsin Wineries Map
Anyone else visual? Use this map of Wisconsin Wineries to help you plan a driving route or tasting rooms near you!
What Are The Wisconsin Wine Trails?
There are a few different formal wine trails you can focus on. These are wineries in the same or nearby AVAs and often they team up together to create their own Wisconsin Winery Passports (usually you get free tastings or a reward like a wine glass or something!)
- The Great River RoadWine Trail
- Southwest Wisconsin Wine Trail for Southern Wisconsin Wineries
- Door County Wine Trailfor Northern Wisconsin Wineries & Door County Peninsula Winery
- Upper Mississippi River Valley AVA for Western Wisconsin Wineries
- Glacial Hills Region for Wineries Near Milwaukee / Southeastern Wisconsin
How Did Wine Come To Wisconsin Anyway?
Hungarian Agoston Haraszthy planted Wisconsin’s first vines in 1846 in what today is Sauk City. Shortly after he moved to California and founded the California Viticultural Society. He’s an interesting guy. Haraszthy was a Hungarian noble who immigrated to the United States and takes credit for being the first documented Hungarian to do so.
Because he came from a wealthy family, he had a lot of business endeavors going on, not just wine. Wine making is hard in Wisconsin and just a few years after planting his vines, the Gold Rush happened, so Haraszthy headed out to California and never returned to the Midwest.
What Are The Best Wisconsin Wineries With Lodging?
If you’ve ever been wine tasting Paso Robles, California, you probably noticed that many wineries offered vineyard lodging, aka luxury hotel rooms right on the vineyard so guests can wake up in wine country.
I sadly didn’t really find that same culture happening in Wisconsin, but I do know that Campo di Bella, right out my hometown of Mount Horeb, has a cute farm stay option on their winery. They do wine tastings and farm-to-table dinners. I would totally book a night stay after one of the dinners to hang out on the farm.
When Is The Best Time Of Year To Go Wisconsin Wine Tasting?
Late spring, summer and early fall is the best time to go wine tasting in Wisconsin. Mostly because the majority of tasting rooms just aren’t open in the winter. Plus, lounging outside on a patio table in nice weather and sipping blueberry wine just hits better than a -20 January day huddled around a tasting bar.
What To Wear Wine Tasting?
So many things to consider! To help you out, I have a whole handy guide on what to wear wine tasting depending on the season you are going.
Wisconsin Wine Where To Buy?
It’s always best to buy locally from the winery but if you forgot to buy a bottle, or simply want to try some Wisconsin wine without heading to a vineyard, you can find bottles in most local grocery stores in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa. If you live outside the Midwest, you can sometimes find it at Total Wine or BevMo.
Use this list of Wisconsin wineries to help you plan your tasting adventure! If your favorite winery didn’t make the list, please drop a comment below so everyone can see. There’s over 110 wineries in Wisconsin (and that’s always growing) so it’s impossible for a gal and her father to visit them all in a timely matter.
Have fun!!!
Kara
I'm the founder of Whimsy Soul (this blog you're reading!) I'm a type 3 enneagram cat lady who lives in San Francisco and loves to find everyday magic to share with others. You can probably find me hunting down hot springs with girlfriends, kayaking, cooking with my husband, petting strangers' dogs or watching like, all the things on Netflix. Follow me on Instagram for even more inspiration!
