This Winery Offers A Sip Of The Heartland In The Rolling Hills Near Decorah, Iowa
Discover the award-winning wines and rustic charm of Winneshiek Wildberry Winery, a family-owned gem in the heart of Iowa’s rolling hills.
DECORAH, IA – Tucked away in the picturesque rolling hills of Northeast Iowa, Winneshiek Wildberry Winery offers a unique and delightful experience for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
This family-owned and operated winery, located on a 160-year-old farm between Decorah, Iowa, and Mabel, Minnesota, specializes in award-winning fruit and Midwestern grape table wines that capture the essence of the heartland.
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The Family Behind the Winery
Winneshiek Wildberry Winery is the brainchild of Ken and Yvonne Barnes and their two daughters, Darla Jones and Beth Guzman. The farm has been in Yvonne’s family for over 160 years, tracing back to her great-grandmother.
Ken and Yvonne have lived on the farm since 1969, raising dairy cows, beef cows, and farrowing pigs. However, with the decline of family farming, they decided to keep the farm viable by producing grapes.
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Ken planted the first grape varieties in 2001, while Darla, the winemaker, completed classes to enhance her wine-making knowledge and skills. Ken drew up plans to rebuild the barn into a winery, which was constructed on the original foundation of the dairy barn by the Amish, Henry Miller a.k.a. “Barefoot Henry” and his crew in 2004-2005. The winery officially opened its doors in October 2005.
Award-Winning Wines
Winneshiek Wildberry Winery has garnered numerous accolades for their exceptional wines. Some of their award-winning varieties include:
- Ole Made Lena Blush (that’s my favorite wine name ever)
- Blackberry Blossom
- Berrypatch Hoedown
- Blueberry Thrill
- Plumb Wild
- Hunga Dunga
- Kenyon Ridge Frontenac
- Lazy Days Itaska
- Farmer’s Daughters
- Rowdy Rooster
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These wines have been recognized at prestigious competitions such as the 2023 International Women’s Wine Competition, Great American International Wine Competition, and the Iowa State Fair Competition.
A Day in the Country
Visitors to Winneshiek Wildberry Winery can enjoy a day in the country, taking in the stunning scenery, exploring the 22 acres of vineyards and two acres of rhubarb, and relaxing on the patio with a glass of wine.
The winery’s interior features a beautifully furnished tasting room with a majestic oak bar, where guests can sample a flight of wine and indulge in a delicious lunch.
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The gift shop is the perfect place to find wine accessories or a special gift for yourself or someone you know. The winery also offers a party room that can be rented for weddings, bachelorette parties, bridal showers, reunions, and other events. Group tours are available weekdays and selected weekends by appointment.
Know Before You Go
- Location: 1966 337th St, Decorah, IA 52101
- Hours: Daily, 11 am-5 pm (closed some holidays)
- Food and Drink: Wine, wine slushies, flatbread pizzas, sandwiches, soups, salads, and homemade pies are served all day during business hours
- Gift Shop: Wine accessories, WWW glasses, shirts, and other wine-related merchandise
- Group Tours: Offered weekdays and selected weekends by appointment
- Party Room Rental: Available for weddings, bachelorette parties, bridal showers, reunions, and more
- For events and all the latest info be sure to visit their website here and their Facebook page here.
Winneshiek Wildberry Winery is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the charm and hospitality of the heartland while savoring award-winning wines in a beautiful, serene setting. Come join the family and spend a day in the country at this exquisite winery in Decorah, Iowa. Happy travels!
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