With Iowa wineries back in (almost) the full swing of summer, you may be wondering whether it’s safe to visit your favorite (or new favorite!) winery again. Well, the answer is (probably/maybe/of course) YES! Wineries in Iowa have taken all the necessary precautions, and then some, to ensure that your visit to their business is a safe and relaxing experience. It may be a bit different from the last time you visited though, so we’ve compiled a few tips to make sure that your experience is a good one!

MAKE SURE THE WINERY IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS WHEN YOU WANT TO VISIT.
Before you go, it wouldn’t hurt to make a quick phone call to the winery. We wouldn’t want you to make the drive there, only to be turned away because there is not enough seating or they have reduced their business hours to ensure adequate cleaning time in between customers. Most wineries in Iowa keep up to date Facebook pages with what’s going on, but an old fashioned call (like, with a telephone) would be the best way to save you some time and frustration.
TO MASK OR NOT TO MASK - UM, CHECK WITH THE WINERY.
In Iowa, businesses are NOT required to mandate mask usage, however it is recommended, so some wineries may require mask usage on their entire premises, while some only require it indoors and some not at all. Some have seating available inside, while others are only allowing outdoor seating. Each winery will be a bit different on their policies to keep you safe and healthy, so again, be sure to check beforehand to see what their policies are for customers. Regardless of mask policies though - ALL wineries want you to stay home if you feel ill or have any symptoms at all. But on the bright side, most are still offering curbside pick-up, so if you really need your supply of Iowa wine, call in an order and have a friend or family member pick it up and deliver it to you when you’re feeling better!
YOU MAY HAVE A DIFFERENT WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE - IN A GOOD WAY!
Most wineries have begun offering customers “flights” of wine tastings, rather than individual tastings of wines you’re interested in purchasing. This makes it a fun experience where you’re able to taste a variety (of your choosing!) of Iowa wines without feeling pressured to finish your tasting before moving on to the next one or rushed for time. By purchasing a flight of wine tastings, it allows you to truly experience the wines at your own pace; maybe pair them with some local cheeses you purchased or brought with you, or try with some quality dark chocolate, see how the flavors and aromas may change as the wines come to room temperature, etc. Some are even offering souvenir glassware (or reusable plasticware specifically designed for outdoor wine sippin’!) to take home with you - bonus!
BE PREPARED TO SPEND TIME OUTDOORS.
Most wineries are recommending customers take their wine flights and/or bottle purchases outside to enjoy, simply for the safety of their staff and YOU! Thank goodness it’s summertime in Iowa and you’re not having to lay out a blanket in mid-30s temperatures (ha!). While Iowa summers are arguably the best time of year here, weather-wise, you may want to pack plenty of sunscreen, bug spray or an umbrella! Some require you to bring your own lawnchairs for music events, tastings, etc. while others have ample, socially distant, seating available for special events, so again - touch base with the winery to see what they are offering/requiring for special events and/or outdoor tasting room visits.
KNOW THAT THESE ARE WEIRD TIMES FOR ALL OF US.
Please be patient with winery staff and give them some grace when you visit. The people working behind the counter, in the cellar, and out in the vineyard are humans too, and, like you, are navigating this unique time as best as they can.
It may take a bit longer to get your tastings served because staff are cleaning/sanitizing in between customers. Enjoy experiencing the scenery that Iowa vineyards have to offer.
You may have to pay a few bucks for a flight of wine tastings. Be appreciative that you’re able to enjoy tasting wines at all without having to purchase a bottle - plus you may get to take home a souvenir glass!
Winery not open when you want to visit? Keep in mind, most wineries are small businesses with families and other obligations just like you and times are tough! Maybe their kids are home 24/7 and they’re not able to staff the tasting room as they would if they were in daycare or at school. Give them the benefit of the doubt and see Tip #1 above!

We want you to experience Iowa wine in a safe and relaxing atmosphere, while enjoying the beautiful scenery Iowa wineries have to offer, and we are prepared to offer you the same delicious wines you’ve come to enjoy.
Lastly, know that when you spend money local, it stays local. We appreciate your business and support of our industry are excited for you to experience Iowa wine. Plus, you never know - you may find a new favorite wine!

Tips for Visiting Iowa Wineries [Safely!]

MAKE SURE THE WINERY IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS WHEN YOU WANT TO VISIT.

TO MASK OR NOT TO MASK - UM, CHECK WITH THE WINERY.

YOU MAY HAVE A DIFFERENT WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE - IN A GOOD WAY!

BE PREPARED TO SPEND TIME OUTDOORS.

KNOW THAT THESE ARE WEIRD TIMES FOR ALL OF US.

We want you to experience Iowa wine in a safe and relaxing atmosphere, while enjoying the beautiful scenery Iowa wineries have to offer, and we are prepared to offer you the same delicious wines you’ve come to enjoy.

Lastly, know that when you spend money local, it stays local. We appreciate your business and support of our industry are excited for you to experience Iowa wine. Plus, you never know - you may find a new favorite wine!