Last Call for Fall Iowa Wine Trail Tickets!

Don't Miss Out: Buy Wine Trail Tickets Now Until October 30th!
Join us the first two weekends in November on the Fall Iowa Wine Trail to discover new Iowa wine favorites and create lasting memories with friends and family. Explore wineries housed in historic buildings, soak in the beauty of rolling vineyards, and savor the unique wines crafted by passionate local vintners. Tickets are selling fast - Don’t miss out on this new event!

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Christie JensenComment
Iowa Grape Harvest Season is Here!

The harvest season is a magical time in Iowa wine country. The grapes are ripe and ready to be picked, and the wineries are buzzing with activity. There are many fun events happening at wineries throughout the state, so be sure to check out what's going on near you.

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Christie Jensen
Local Wineries Shine at 2024 Iowa Wine State Fair Competition

The Iowa Wine Growers Association (IWGA) recently announced the winners of the Iowa Wine State Fair Competition. 

Held in July each year, the competition utilized ten qualified wine judges selecting medal winners through a blind sensory and tasting evaluation. 

This year, a record 171 wines from 23 Iowa wineries were entered. In total, 116 wines earned awards, 7 Double Gold, 9 Gold, 48 Silver and 52 Bronze. 

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Christie JensenComment
The Iowa Wine Experience Awaits at the State Fair!

Immerse yourself in the bounty of Iowa this summer! The Iowa State Fair's Wine Experience offers delicious tastings, new wine-by-the-glass options, and even refreshing wine slushies (August 8th-18th). Pair your summer fun with live music at many Iowa wineries and don't forget to explore the fresh finds at the fair's brand new farmer's market. From award-winning wines to local produce and toe-tapping tunes, Iowa has something for every taste!

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Christie JensenComment
Exploring the World of Iowa’s Cold-Hardy Grapes

Ever imagine Iowa as a haven for thriving vineyards? Nestled amidst rolling hills and fertile plains, Iowa boasts a surprising bounty – cold-hardy grape varietals that have adapted to the region's distinct climate. 

Today, we're venturing into the heart of Iowa's wine scene, where Chris Larsen, owner of Compass Hill Vineyard, talks about his 10 years as a vineyard owner. 

Plus, we'll explore a dozen unique grape varietals that grace Iowa's vineyards, each contributing its own special character to the state's burgeoning wine industry. So, grab a metaphorical glass and join us as we delve into the fascinating world of Iowa grapes!

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Rebecca RitzComment
Sweet Harmony: Pairing Girl Scout Cookies with Iowa Wines

Forget boring pairings – this year, celebrate Girl Scout Cookie season with a uniquely Iowa twist! Embark on a delicious journey by matching your favorite Girl Scout cookies with Iowa Wine.

But the magic doesn't stop there. Journey to Soldier Creek Winery, Glyn Mawr Winery-The Local and Cedar Valley Winery this month, And to ensure these wineries continue to flourish, Nutrien Ag Solutions, a dedicated industry partner, provides essential resources and expertise, ensuring a bountiful harvest and delicious wines for years to come.

So, grab a box of Girl Scout Cookies, raise a glass of Iowa wine, and prepare to discover a symphony of flavors! Let's embark on this sweet adventure visiting 4 local Iowa wineries.

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Christie JensenComment
Uncorking Excellence: Celebrating the 2024 Iowa Wine Award Winners

The 2024 Iowa Wine Awards banquet was held on Monday, Jan. 8 at the FFA Enrichment Center in Ankeny, in conjunction with the Iowa Specialty Producers Conference.

It's no secret that Iowan's know a thing or two about agriculture! Grapes have been grown in Iowa as early as 1857 when a vineyard was planted in the rolling hills of western Iowa near Council Bluffs.

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Christie JensenComment
Discover Iowa's Best-Kept Secret: Winter Wine Shopping and Winery Exploration

Get ready for a winter full of Iowa wine! Purchase tickets to the Iowa Wine Awards Social, grab stylish Iowa Wine hoodies and shirts, and plan your visits to 5 Iowa wineries.

Welcome to Iowa, where hidden gems await at every turn. If you thought Iowa was only known for its cornfields and rolling hills, prepare to be pleasantly surprised. Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes, there lies Iowa's best-kept secret: winter wine shopping and winery exploration.

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Christie JensenComment
Why We Are Thankful For Iowa Wine

Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, the wine industry in Iowa is something to be thankful for. 

Iowa wineries offer a delightful blend of award-winning wines and captivating experiences, making each visit a journey of flavors and stories. 

Whether it’s a crisp white or a robust red, Iowa's winemakers have perfected their craft, producing wines that rival those from more famous regions. 

Join us as we celebrate 5 Iowa wineries: Ackerman Winery, Olathea Creek Vineyard & Winery, Airport Road Vineyard & Winery, Winneshiek Wildberry Winery, and Oscar Carl Vineyard.

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Christie JensenComment
Raise a Glass to Our Teachers!

The first week in May is Teacher Appreciation Week and Tuesday, May 3rd is Teacher Appreciation Day! We’d like to celebrate all of the amazing teachers who are helping shape our children’s future and the future of our world (whether it feels like that at 3:30 each day or not!) by recognizing their accomplishments this school year.

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Tacos & [Iowa] Wines - Perfect for Cinco de Mayo!

Happy Cinco de Mayo! We’re celebrating tonight by preparing some tasty homemade tacos and pairing them with some delicious Iowa wines. Who says you have to drink a margarita on Cinco de Mayo anyway (although we do appreciate a solid margarita from time to time!)?!? And seriously, who DOESN’T love tacos?? For real though, I would trade my right arm for a lifetime supply of tacos. OMG, I’m kidding (sort of..).

Check out our top picks for pairing Iowa wines to stand up to the flavor and spices in tacos.

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