Arkansas is home to some remarkable vineyards that offer wonderful experiences for wine lovers and casual visitors alike. Nestled among the natural beauty of the region, these vineyards provide a scenic and enjoyable escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether one is a seasoned connoisseur or just exploring the world of wine, Arkansas has something unique to offer.
What makes the vineyards in Arkansas special is the blend of history, quality, and hospitality that each location offers. From family-owned establishments to larger, more renowned wineries, each vineyard has its own story and charm. Visitors can enjoy tastings, tours, and events that make for memorable experiences. Discovering these vineyards is not just about the wine, but also about enjoying the picturesque landscapes and the warm, welcoming atmosphere.
1) Mount Bethel Winery
Mount Bethel Winery is one of the oldest wineries in Arkansas. Established in 1956 by the Post family, it has been producing high-quality wines for over six decades. Located in Altus, this winery is known for its scenic views and beautiful vineyards.
Visitors to Mount Bethel Winery can enjoy a wide range of wines. The winery produces reds, whites, blushes, and fruit wines. Their Muscadine wines are especially popular, made from grapes native to the southeastern United States.
The winery’s setting in the Arkansas River Valley adds to its charm. The beautiful vineyards create a perfect backdrop for wine tastings and tours. Guests can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere while sampling some of the best wines the region has to offer.
For those interested in learning more, the winery’s contact details and operating hours are easily accessible on their official website. Mount Bethel Winery remains a favorite stop for both locals and tourists who appreciate quality wine and stunning scenery.
2) Post Winery
Post Winery is located in the heart of Arkansas. It is known for its Muscadine wines. These wines are made from grapes grown in the regional climate.
The winery has a rich history. It started in the 1960s and 70s, and advancements in winemaking technology helped improve their offerings. Today, they produce award-winning wines and juices.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities. They offer wine tastings, tours, and picnics on the winery grounds. The winery is also part of a list of best wineries in Arkansas.
Located in northwestern Arkansas, Post Winery benefits from the climate stress on the vines. This helps produce superior fruit, perfect for creating their Muscadine wines.
The winery is run by the Post family. Matt Post, the family patriarch, is still active in the business at 95 years old. The family’s dedication to quality is clear in every bottle.
3) Chateau Aux Arc
Chateau Aux Arc is a charming vineyard located in the Ozark Mountains, near Altus, Arkansas. The vineyard spans 50 acres and stands out for being owned and operated by Audrey House, an Arkansas Wine Producers Council member. This unique distinction makes the vineyard an interesting visit.
They offer a variety of wines, from bold reds to crisp whites and sweet options. Visitors often find a new favorite, making it a worthwhile stop for wine enthusiasts. The tasting room is inviting and provides a great place to experience Arkansas-grown excellence.
Chateau Aux Arc has been welcoming guests since it opened in 2001. The winery initially started as a small operation. Through dedication, it has grown into an award-winning destination. Many visitors praise its transformation and quality.
The vineyard’s setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains adds to its allure. Its scenic views make for a relaxing and enjoyable visit. Whether you are a fan of red, white, or sweet wines, this place has something for everyone.
Plan your visit and discover why this vineyard has become a beloved spot for wine lovers in Arkansas.
4) Wiederkehr Wine Cellars
Wiederkehr Wine Cellars is a historic gem located in Arkansas. Founded in 1880, it is the oldest winery in mid-America. This beautiful vineyard sits on the southern slopes of the Ozark Mountains. The Swiss alpine-style architecture adds charm and elegance to the winery.
Visitors can enjoy free wine tasting cellar tours year-round. The selection of award-winning wines is perfect for any wine lover. The winery also features a gift shop and the Wiederkehr Village Wine & Spirits store.
The stunning views of the Arkansas River valley from St. Mary’s Mountain make it worth the visit. Lovingly tended vineyards surround the property, creating a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere. The winery’s dedication to quality has earned it a big name in the region.
The Wiederkehr family takes pride in their Swiss heritage. They offer vineyard tours, showcasing their long-standing winemaking traditions. Each visit provides a glimpse into a rich history filled with passion and dedication to the craft.
For a delightful and educational experience, Wiederkehr Wine Cellars is a must-visit. Enjoy the unique blend of history, culture, and fine wine in a breathtaking setting. Plan your visit today and explore everything this iconic vineyard has to offer.
5) Keels Creek Winery
Keels Creek Winery is a boutique winery located in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. It focuses on creating sophisticated wines from grapes grown in the Ozark Mountains. Visitors can enjoy tasting locally made, award-winning wines.
The winery offers a cozy atmosphere with a tasting room and an art gallery. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine while admiring local artwork. The winery is open daily for tastings, and visitors can find store hours on their Facebook Page.
Keels Creek is praised for its affordable wine tastings, where guests even get to keep the wine glass as a souvenir. This adds a special touch to the wine-tasting experience, making it memorable for visitors.
You can explore more about Keels Creek Winery by checking their Tripadvisor Reviews. These reviews highlight the winery’s charm and the quality of its wines.
6) Whispering Oaks Vineyard
Whispering Oaks Vineyard offers a blend of modern architecture and stunning natural landscapes. Nestled on a 27.3-acre property, this vineyard provides a peaceful and serene country living experience.
The private and gated drive leads guests through approximately 10 acres of meticulously maintained vineyard. The vineyard boasts a variety of high-quality grapes and a picturesque setting.
Visitors can enjoy spacious living areas within the 3,200 sq. ft. property, making it a comfortable getaway. The property also includes four bedrooms and three full baths, ensuring ample space for relaxation and enjoyment.
Whispering Oaks Vineyard combines the beauty of the countryside with the convenience of modern living, offering both fantastic views and upscale amenities.
Learn more about this charming vineyard on the Kevin McDonald property page.
7) An Enchanting Evening Winery
An Enchanting Evening Winery is nestled just 20 minutes west of Little Rock, Arkansas.
They offer a family-friendly tasting room where you can enjoy various wines. People often praise their Enchanting Red, a semi-sweet wine that’s quite popular.
The winery also boasts a spectacular landscape. Visitors can admire views of Pinnacle Mountain and Lake Maumelle.
Wine tasting sessions are available by reservation. You can enjoy a tasting for just $5, and it’s free if you buy a bottle.
The winery also has a unique feature – a Wine Tasting Yurt. This space is designed to make wine tasting not just an activity but an experience.
With handcrafted bottles and a variety of wines, An Enchanting Evening Winery offers an experience that blends natural beauty and quality.
8) Railport Brewing Company
Railport Brewing Company is a standout in the Arkansas brewing scene. Located conveniently, it’s easy to visit during a trip through Arkansas wine country.
The brewery operates from Wednesday through Sunday, making it a perfect spot for a mid-week break or a weekend adventure. The hours are Wednesday through Saturday from 12 PM to 8 ish, and Sunday from 2 PM to 6 PM.
Visitors can experience a wide range of brews in their laid-back taproom. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a family-friendly destination.
In addition to its great beers, Railport Brewing Company often hosts events and special releases, inviting locals and tourists alike to join in the fun. This makes every visit unique and exciting. For more information, check out Railport Brewing Company.
9) Sassafras Springs Vineyard
Sassafras Springs Vineyard is nestled in a peaceful valley in Northwest Arkansas, just minutes from Fayetteville. This vineyard is celebrated for its award-winning wines and beautiful setting that makes it a popular venue for storybook weddings, corporate events, and special occasions.
Spanning 50 acres, Sassafras Springs offers a variety of attractions. The vineyard includes a winery tasting room, a chapel, a wine manufacturing building, and the Stables Event Center. Visitors can enjoy a tasting session with four 2-ounce pours for $12, which comes with a keepsake logo wineglass.
When visiting, guests can pair their drinks with specialty pizzas, salads, or an artisan charcuterie board. This vineyard is praised for creating a perfect ambiance for relaxation and enjoyment.
Sassafras Springs is also one of the best small farm wineries in Arkansas. They produce a variety of wines made from grapes grown on their vineyard as well as nearby local vineyards. Their setting and friendly atmosphere make it a must-visit destination in the area. For more information, visit Sassafras Springs Vineyard.
10) Saddlebock Brewery and Winery
Saddlebock Brewery and Winery in Springdale, Arkansas offers a unique mix of craft beers, wines, and ciders. Located on a 30-acre farm, it provides a rustic setting for visitors. They have both indoor seating and two spacious outdoor patios.
Established in 2012, this brewery quickly gained recognition. It was awarded one of the top 5 brewery tours in the USA by Yahoo Travel. The brewery’s founder started as a home brewer, winning many awards before going professional.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of ales, lagers, and other unique beers. There’s also a restaurant that serves farm-to-table dishes, including black angus beef raised on the farm. This combination makes Saddlebock a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Saddlebock Brewery and Winery is also close to other attractions in Northwest Arkansas, which adds to its appeal. For more details on their offerings, check out their Facebook page.
History Of Winemaking In Arkansas
Arkansas has a rich winemaking history, beginning in the late 19th century. Today, it features a blend of traditional techniques and modern advancements, creating a thriving wine industry.
Early Beginnings
Winemaking in Arkansas began in the late 1800s when European immigrants brought their grape-growing knowledge to the Altus region. They saw the fertile soil and favorable climate as ideal for vineyards. Jacob Post, one of the early settlers, established the state’s first commercial vineyard in 1872.
By the early 20th century, Arkansas had over 100 bonded wineries. These pioneers laid the foundation for what would become a vibrant industry. The Arkansas Wine Country started to gain recognition for its unique flavors and quality.
Prohibition nearly wiped out the industry, but some families persisted, keeping the tradition alive by making sacramental and medicinal wines. This resilience helped revitalize winemaking in the region once Prohibition ended.
Modern Developments
Today, Arkansas boasts several renowned wineries, including the historic Mount Bethel Winery, established in 1956 by Eugene Post. The state’s wine industry has evolved with modern winemaking techniques and continues to produce diverse and high-quality wines.
Technological advancements in grape cultivation and wine production have improved overall quality. New wine trails, like the Altus Wine Trail, offer visitors a chance to explore multiple vineyards, enhancing the state’s appeal as a wine tourism destination.
The combination of history, innovation, and a rich cultural heritage ensures that Arkansas remains a significant player in the American wine industry.
Unique Arkansas Grape Varieties
Arkansas wineries offer a rich selection of grape varieties. Popular varietals are widely enjoyed for their flavor and quality, while rare finds offer unique experiences for wine enthusiasts.
Popular Varietals
Arkansas vineyards grow several popular grape varieties. One of the most well-known is the Cynthiana (Norton) grape. This grape, often hailed as America’s oldest native grape, is prized for its deep berry flavors and robust profile.
Chambourcin is another favorite, known for its versatility and smooth finish. It is used in both red and rosé wines. Concord grapes also make an appearance, famous for their sweet, fruity wines often used for grape juice and jelly.
Arkansas’ climate supports the growth of these grapes, resulting in high-quality wines that are enjoyed regionally and beyond. The popularity of these varietals is evident in vineyards such as Bobrook Farms and Mount Bethel Winery, where you can taste these excellent wines.
Rare Finds
For those looking for something different, Arkansas offers some rare grape varieties. The Muscadine grape stands out with its unique flavor profile, combining sweetness and a hint of tartness. This grape thrives in the warmer climates of the state.
Another rare find is the Everest Grape, known for its ease of growth and full-bodied flavor. This variety is less common but provides a delightful experience for those looking to taste something different.
Vineyards like JKC Cellars offer these rare varieties, allowing wine enthusiasts to explore beyond the well-known grapes. These rare finds add depth and variety to Arkansas’s wine offerings, making them a must-try for any visit.
Exploring The Arkansas Wine Trail
The Arkansas Wine Trail offers a delightful experience for wine lovers with its beautiful landscapes and exceptional wineries. Along this trail, visitors can explore historic vineyards, participate in unique wine tasting events, and enjoy seasonal festivities.
Must-Visit Destinations
One of the standout spots on the Arkansas Wine Trail is the Mount Bethel Winery. Established in 1956 by the Post family, it is one of the oldest wineries in the region, offering a variety of unique wine flavors. Located in Altus, Arkansas, this winery is known for its scenic views and historical significance.
Another notable destination is Cowie Wine Cellars & Vineyards. Found about 30 miles south of Altus in Paris, Arkansas, Cowie Wine Cellars boasts award-winning wines crafted from locally grown grapes. Visitors can enjoy a rich history and a friendly atmosphere.
Keels Creek Winery in Eureka Springs offers a warm experience with affordable wine tastings where guests can keep their glasses as souvenirs. This destination combines affordability with the pleasure of tasting quality wines.
Seasonal Events
Arkansas wineries host several seasonal events that enhance the wine trail experience. Many wineries organize harvest festivals in autumn, where visitors can participate in grape stomping and enjoy live music. These events often feature local food vendors, making them a great way to experience regional flavors.
The spring wine festivals are also popular, often showcasing newly released wines and offering outdoor activities like picnics and guided vineyard tours. These events provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy the beautiful blooming vineyards and taste fresh, new wines.
During the winter months, many wineries host cozy indoor events, including wine and cheese pairings and holiday-themed tastings. These gatherings offer a warm and inviting atmosphere, allowing guests to appreciate the craftsmanship of Arkansas wines in a festive setting.
