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Wisconsin Wineries and Vineyards

             Come with us as we explore the Wineries of Wisconsin. With a long history of producing wines from various fruits for personal consumption and to be sold to consumers, it is easy to not think of Wisconsin when we think of wines made from grapes.  With almost 40 Wineries and Vineyards, and  many awards, some produce wines from home grown grapes, we have quite a bit to boast about. A little history, during  the early nineteenth century wine grapes where planted by Agoston Haraszthy who founded the beginning of the Wisconsin industry we recognize today. However he was not convinced that the rough winters of the state would make it possible for wine grape production. With great disappointment he fled the state California. But because of the  foundation he laid and the attraction of wine, many that followed explored many different grape varieties until winter hardy hybrids prove to be suitable to the climate. Although some wineries produce wine from grapes from other states it clearly shows that the talent to produce wine exist in the state. Through our journeys we will share with you some of our discoveries and hope  that you will join us in recognition and enjoyment of good wine from our own backyard. Following is a list of wineries and wines we feel you should sample and maybe add to your wine rack. The number listed represents the number on the wine map above.

"Let Your Palate Be The Guide"

-TWH

     Vines to Cellar, Port Washington explored Summer 2008

Here is a place that takes the wine experience to a new level for us Wisconsinites. Let me explain my meaning briefly.

How would you like to? sample wine by the taste, glass, or bottle. Host a wine event for your group of friends or associates. or

make your own wine with personalized labels for gift or appreciation gestures, oh yea, while tasting wine. A one stop shop for

 the wine drinker as well as the maker. They thought of everything to give you the ultimate experience. Amateur wine makers here it 

is, a place for you to congregate and get all of your wine and beer making supplies, oh yea, while sampling the wines that are made onsite.   

Wine drinkers, come and explore and "Let Your Palate Be The Guide".

18. Parallel 44 Winery, Kewaunee explored Winter 2008

Would you like to get up close and personal with the vines that produce some of their wines? This Winery has old world

charm in an modern setting. When I visited Parallel 44 there was snow blanketing the vines, like a photo from a wine

magazine. The wine stewards are friendly the atmosphere is cozy and the wine speaks for itself. Some of my favorites are:

           soft tannins that's bold enough handle hearty meals yet subtle enough to sip and enjoy.

If you would like to sample some of Parallel 44's wine come by the store it's July's Featured Selection

14.Trout Springs Winery, Greenleaf explored Winter 2008

Here is a winery that has thought of almost everything  to entertain you. First let's start with the landscape. Your surrounded by

plants in a natural environment which includes the main feature, the Grape Vines. They also farm raise their own Trout hence the

the name. The tasting room is warm and inviting as is the owners who may be pouring the day you visit. With a love for nature

having your own nursery has it's advantages. But the wines are what brought me here and the surroundings kept me. Here are 

some of the wines I enjoyed during my visit.

           to this summer drinking wine. A true thirst quencher with hints of apple and citrus.

           mixed with a subtle spice dance on the palate.

           and full bodied ripe fruit taste and a touch of oak rounds out on the palate. Their is something unique about this wine, But you must

           visit the winery to find out.

29. Simon Creek Winery & Vineyard, Sturgeon Bay explored Summer 2007

If you haven't visited Simon Creek Lately Make a plan to stop in. Live music on the deck amongst the vines is just awesome,

 I can't say any more than that. While listening to music you can enjoy wine with many snack varieties they offer at the retail store.

 Take in the sun, enjoy the music and sip and snack to your hearts desire.

28. Red Oak Vineyard, Downtown Sturgeon explored Summer 2007

Another jewel hidden in downtown Sturgeon Bay. It was hard to find, until I discovered it was in downtown. The tasting room

is wonderful, with soft music, hip and alive with wine lovers. Being from L.A. I felt at home. With a talented winemaker

in the cellar he even gives fruit wine a different spin. i.e. cherry. which I enjoyed, not your typical tasting fruit wine.

Although the grapes are brought in from the outside to produce their wines Red Oak is also in the process of establishing there own vineyard..

If your fortunate maybe there will be a barrel sample or two of a new vintage. Maybe it's me but there where not many wines in this

portfolio I enjoyed

and balanced taste.

This starts the list see you, next month when we will add more from our journey through Wisconsin's Wineries.