For Rustic Charm And Unforgettable Wines, Retreat To This Winery In Waukon, Iowa
Indulge in a captivating wine experience like no other at the charmingly rustic Empty Nest Winery in Waukon, Iowa!
WAUKON, IA – Tucked away in the scenic countryside of Waukon, Iowa, Empty Nest Winery is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and those seeking a unique and enchanting experience in the Midwest.
This family-owned and operated winery has been crafting exceptional wines since 2011, using locally grown berries and traditional winemaking techniques.
Editor's note: Our publication is not affiliated with or compensated by any of the entities mentioned in this article. We are committed to providing our readers with honest, fair and helpful information, free from bias or improper influence.
The Winery’s Stunning Architecture
One of the most captivating aspects of Empty Nest Winery is its breathtaking architecture. The winery is housed in a reclaimed 100-year-old family barn, which has been carefully restored and transformed into a warm and inviting space.

The interior features huge beams, barn boards framing corrugated steel walls, and two handmade 24-foot bars. The vaulted wood ceilings are adorned with three enormous, handmade, lighted spiral wooden chandeliers, creating a truly mesmerizing atmosphere.
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‘True to the Fruit’ Wines
Empty Nest Winery is renowned for its ‘True to the Fruit’ wines, which are made using whole, real fruit and real sugar. Unlike many other wineries that use only juice, Empty Nest Winery ferments the entire fruit, resulting in unfiltered wines with more flavor, color, and body.
The winery started with eight different wines, mainly berry and fruit varieties, and has since expanded its offerings to include over 50 varieties of wines, ports, ciders, and sangrias.
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The Tasting Room Experience
The winery’s tasting room offers a fun and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for gathering with friends and enjoying a glass of wine, sangria, craft beer, or cider. Visitors can also indulge in free popcorn while sampling the various beverages.
From May through October, the winery offers a hot food buffet on Fridays from 5-8pm and Saturdays from 11-2pm, allowing guests to enjoy a delicious meal alongside their favorite drinks. The tasting room also provides games, cards, and purchasable snacks, encouraging visitors to relax and have fun throughout the afternoon.
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Outdoor Seating and Event Venue
In addition to the inviting interior, Empty Nest Winery features a delightful outdoor seating area, complete with a patio and gazebo. The tranquil surroundings provide the perfect setting for unwinding and letting your stress melt away.
The winery also serves as a great venue for hosting events, offering a unique and memorable backdrop for any special occasion.
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Know Before You Go
Before planning your visit to Empty Nest Winery, take note of their tasting room hours:
- Monday – Thursday: Closed
- Fridays: 4-9pm (May-September)
- Saturdays: 10-5pm
- Sundays: 1-5pm
The winery is located at 1352 Apple Road, Waukon, IA 52172, and can be reached at 563-568-2758. For updates and event details, check out their website here.
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Empty Nest Winery is a charming retreat that offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. From its stunning architecture and ‘True to the Fruit’ wines to its welcoming tasting room and beautiful outdoor seating, this winery is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the delightful town of Waukon, Iowa. Happy travels!
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