Best Wine Vacation Destinations in the Midwest
When it comes to famous vineyards in the United States, California’s Napa Valley tends to steal all the hype. However, if you dig a little deeper and look just a little further to the east, you’ll find a blend of flavors to suit any palate. If you’re visiting America’s Heartland, here are some destinations you can’t miss.
1. Michigan: A laid-back wine destination with a few surprises
Combine rolling hills, picturesque farmland, and stunning views of the Great Lakes, and you’ll quickly see why Michigan is one of the most romantic vacation destinations for low-key couples. With over 100 commercial wineries open to the public, this state offers a wide range of vintages to suit every palate, as well as some unexpected specialty wines that are unique to the region. Be sure to try out the Ice Wine: a rich and sweet wine made from late-season grapes that have been frozen for an extra-concentrated taste and velvety finish.
Recommended in Michigan: Fenn Valley Vineyards, Fennville, MI. Established in 1973, this family-owned vineyard is open to visitors year-round. Fenn Valley is located near the edge of Lake Michigan, and the unusual micro-climate of the area produces wines that have unique flavors.
2.Minnesota: City refinement, countryside charm
One of the best ways to experience the full range of Midwestern wines is by taking a wine tour from vineyard to vineyard. It’d be easy to spend a week or longer in Minnesota, hopping from one farm to the next during the day and relaxing at a B&B or taking an evening stroll through the fields with a glass of Lemberger in your hand.
However, if you don’t have as much time or you simply want a sophisticated evening out on the town, Minneapolis offers an extensive selection of wine bars that feature local vintages. New wine bars pop up every month as more and more people are discovering Midwestern vintages, but be sure to check out Kings Wine Bar in south Minneapolis. Kings pairs wine with a full dinner menu of international-themed dishes.
3. Missouri: Wines to suit every palate, from traditional to modern
What better place to start exploring Midwestern wines than in Missouri, the Gateway to the West? Missouri’s warmer and drier climate allows it to grow a greater variety of grapes than other Midwestern states. Here you’ll find everything from a sweet Catawba Rosé to the rich and deep Norton wines which reflect the German heritage of the area.
A portion of the Ozark Mountains is contained in the southwestern corner of Missouri. Not only is this a beautiful place to visit, but it also has some of the best wineries in the state. Referred to as the Ozark Highlands Wine Region, here you’ll find numerous family-owned vineyards that are buried amongst the forested hills.
4. Kansas: Try something different off the beaten path.
Think of Kansas and you’ll probably imagine an endless field of wheat, corn, or sunflowers stretching as far as the eye can see. While it’s true that this flat and relatively dry state doesn’t have the most traditional climate for growing grapes, it’s recently experiencing a rebirth of interest from wine enthusiasts and there are currently almost two dozen wineries in operation.
Most vineyards in Kansas are in the less arid eastern third of the state, though there are a few in the central Wichita and Salina areas. A relative newcomer to the scene is the Vogel Family Vineyards, located in the small town of Galena on the eastern border with Missouri. Established in 2004, this small private winery offers a good selection of moderately priced wines in favorite varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, or Riesling. Tours are available by appointment.
5. Ohio: A more Easterly take on Midwestern Wines
Ohio’s gentle and wetter climate allows its wineries to grow a wide range of grapes, with local North American species being preferred to European varieties. Similar to Michigan, many of Ohio’s best wineries lie along its edge with the Great Lakes where the sand in the soil and cool, fresh waters lend unique flavors to the grapes.
If you want to take a quick look into this region, consider going to a wine tasting event in Cleveland, Ohio. One option is the Highland Heights Wine Benefits, which offers a selection 30 different wines and proceeds go to charity. Additionally, if you have children with you, Cleveland offers many fun and family-friendly activities like a botanical garden, several museums, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
6. Illinois: from the Windy City to the Shawnee Hills
If you’re considering taking a vacation in Illinois, most likely you’re planning at least a few days’ stop in Chicago. The Windy City is on everyone’s ‘Must-See List’ for a good reason: it’s absolutely filled with famous attractions like the Shedd Aquarium, the Museum of Natural History, and the Willis tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), which is the 12th highest building in the world. Wine connoisseurs are also well catered to in Chicago with a staggering selection of wine bars and chic restaurants to choose from. One very popular choice is the City Winery Chicago which combines wine tasting with music and live performances.
Once you’re done with the culture and sophistication of Chicago, head a few hours southwest to the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail. This collection of 12 wineries follows the southern point of Illinois along the border with Kentucky. Along the way you’ll find numerous hiking trails, natural landmarks, and family activities like canoe rentals and horseback riding.