Kansas is home to some truly remarkable vineyards and wineries that are perfect for any wine enthusiast. With beautiful landscapes and a variety of wines to taste, these vineyards provide an amazing experience for visitors. From red to white and even fruit wines, there’s something to delight every palate.
So, what are the best vineyards to visit in Kansas? This article will guide you through some of the top picks, showcasing the unique characteristics and offerings of each vineyard. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just beginning to explore the world of wines, Kansas has something special to offer you.
1) Domaine de la Fée Verte
Domaine de la Fée Verte is one of Kansas’ most charming vineyards. Nestled in the scenic countryside, this vineyard offers a tranquil escape for wine lovers. Visitors can enjoy strolling through the vineyards, taking in the beautiful landscapes.
The winemakers at Domaine de la Fée Verte are dedicated to producing high-quality wines. They craft a variety of reds, whites, and rosés using both classic and unique grape varieties. Each bottle reflects their passion and expertise.
In addition, the vineyard hosts tasting events where guests can sample their latest creations. Friendly staff are always on hand to guide visitors through their selections, making it a delightful experience.
Domaine de la Fée Verte also features a cozy tasting room. This inviting space is perfect for relaxing with friends and enjoying a glass of their finest wine. The ambiance is warm and welcoming.
For those looking to learn more about winemaking, the vineyard offers informative tours. These tours provide insight into the production process and the history of the vineyard itself. It’s an educational experience that’s also a lot of fun.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just starting your journey, Domaine de la Fée Verte is a must-visit. Its combination of great wines, friendly atmosphere, and beautiful setting makes it a standout destination in Kansas.
2) Prairie Fire Winery
Prairie Fire Winery in Paxico, Kansas, is a gem for wine lovers. They proudly use only Kansas-grown grapes for their wines, showcasing the unique flavors of the Flint Hills soil.
Visitors can enjoy daily tastings and tours from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. On Sundays, they open from noon until 5:00 PM. The winery provides a lovely experience with its regional wines.
They produce a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. They’ve won numerous awards, such as the Governor’s Cup for Best Kansas Wine in 2012. This prestige reflects their commitment to quality and excellence.
Located in the breathtaking Flint Hills, the winery offers more than just wine. Visitors can also enjoy all-natural candles, cheese, and summer sausage. These products enhance the overall experience at the vineyard.
Prairie Fire Winery often hosts events like live music and food pairings, adding extra enjoyment to trips. Their motto, “Grown Here – Made Here,” perfectly captures their dedication to local production.
For more detailed information, you can visit Prairie Fire Winery here.
3) Shiloh Vineyard & Winery
Shiloh Vineyard & Winery is a delightful, family-owned spot located in WaKeeney, Kansas. Founded in 2008 by Kirk and Treva Johnston, this charming vineyard is known for its tasty and carefully crafted wines.
Visitors to the vineyard can enjoy a range of wines, including dry, semi-sweet, fruit, and dessert wines. Each wine is made from fruit grown right there on the plains of western Kansas.
This picturesque vineyard offers more than just wine. The venue itself is breathtaking, perfect for a relaxing evening or a special event. Guests often rave about the inviting atmosphere and scenic views.
Shiloh Vineyard & Winery is a short drive down gravel roads, making it feel like a hidden gem among Kansas’s many attractions. For more information, visit Shiloh Vineyard & Winery online.
4) Smoky Hill Vineyards & Winery
Smoky Hill Vineyards & Winery in Salina, Kansas, offers delightful wine experiences. Founded in 1991 by Steven Jennings and Kay Bloom, the winery began with just one acre of hand-planted vines.
Today, it stands as the largest grape-producing farm winery in Kansas. Visitors can enjoy staff-led wine tastings featuring popular wines like Sweet Lady, Pink Catawba, and River Valley Red.
Nestled about 10 minutes from downtown Salina, Smoky Hill offers a cozy setting for wine lovers. Guests can savor their wines through flights, glasses, or bottle sales right at the winery.
Reserve a spot today to explore their award-winning wines and enjoy a hassle-free delivery service to get your favorite bottles delivered to your door. Smoky Hill Vineyards & Winery creates the perfect opportunity to discover the authentic taste of Kansas wines.
For more information, visit their Smoky Hill Vineyards & Winery website.
5) Grace Hill Winery
Grace Hill Winery is located in the Wichita area at 6310 S Grace Hill Rd, Whitewater, KS. Known for its handcrafted Kansas wines, this vineyard offers a unique experience for wine lovers.
Visitors can enjoy wine tastings five days a week. The tasting room is conveniently located steps away from the vineyard, allowing guests to fully immerse in the beautiful surroundings.
Weekends at Grace Hill Winery are special. They feature live music on Fridays and Saturdays, adding a fun atmosphere to the tasting experience. This makes it a perfect spot for a weekend getaway.
Activities don’t stop at wine tastings. The winery offers free tours and lawn games, making it a family-friendly destination. Guests can learn about the wine-making process, explore the vineyard, and enjoy outdoor activities.
Grace Hill Winery is also available for events. Whether it’s a private gathering or a public event, the setting provides a charming backdrop. This flexibility makes it a great venue for celebrations and social gatherings.
For more details, visit Grace Hill Winery.
6) Pome on the Range
Pome on the Range is a charming orchard and winery located near Williamsburg, Kansas. It offers a delightful way to spend the day with family and friends. Visitors can wander through 25 acres of apple trees and 12 acres of other fruit trees, enjoying the scenic views and fresh air.
They offer a u-pick experience where guests can pick their own apples straight from the trees. This makes it a fun and educational outing for kids and adults alike. The orchard also grows peaches and other seasonal fruits, adding variety to their offerings.
The orchard market is open year-round and sells fresh produce and homemade goods. It’s housed in a big, red barn that adds to the rustic charm. Besides fresh fruits, the market features jams, jellies, and other fruit products, perfect for those looking to take a piece of the orchard home.
Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the free wine tastings available daily. Pome on the Range produces a range of wines using fruits from the orchard. This adds a unique touch to the vineyard experience, making it stand out among Kansas vineyards.
For more information, visit Pome on the Range Orchard and Winery.
7) Wagon Wheel Winery
Wagon Wheel Winery is a charming spot located in Northern Kansas. They have a welcoming atmosphere that invites visitors to explore their beautiful vineyards and enjoy their delicious wines.
The wine selection at Wagon Wheel Winery includes an impressive variety of reds, whites, and rosés. Each wine is crafted with care, making it easy to find something for everyone’s taste.
Visitors can take part in wine tastings, which are both informative and fun. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to share interesting stories about the winery and the winemaking process.
In addition to wines, Wagon Wheel Winery also offers a cozy on-site restaurant. Guests can enjoy a meal that pairs wonderfully with their favorite wine. The menu features locally sourced ingredients, adding a fresh and flavorful touch to each dish.
The winery’s beautiful outdoor space is perfect for a relaxing day out. The scenic views of the vineyard make it a great spot for picnics and small gatherings.
Wagon Wheel Winery hosts various events throughout the year. From live music to seasonal festivals, there’s always something exciting happening, making every visit unique and memorable.
8) Holy-Field Vineyard & Winery
Holy-Field Vineyard & Winery is situated in Basehor, Kansas. It is only 20 minutes from downtown Kansas City, MO and about 5 miles west of the Kansas Speedway on State Ave. This cozy, boutique winery has gained a reputation for its warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Holy-Field offers various award-winning wines. With over 400 international wine awards, they take pride in their high-quality products. Visitors can explore the tasting room to sample these exceptional wines.
Operating year-round, the winery is open every day. The hours are convenient, with Monday to Friday from 10 am to 6 pm, Saturday from 9:30 am to 6 pm, and Sunday from noon to 6 pm.
The winery also features numerous outdoor events during the summertime. From live music to special gatherings, Holy-Field has activities for everyone. It’s a popular spot for friends, family, or even a romantic date.
Nestled in the heart of Kansas, Holy-Field Vineyard & Winery combines scenic views, flavorful wines, and a friendly atmosphere to create a memorable experience for all who visit. For more details, visit their official website.
9) Crescent Moon Winery
Crescent Moon Winery is located just north of Lawrence, Kansas, near the Grinter Sunflowers. Established in 2011, the vineyard was planted in 2008 and has been expanding ever since. The winery offers a charming experience with its picturesque views of the countryside.
Visitors can enjoy delightful wine tastings at both the main winery and the Downtown Tasting Room on 732 Mass in Lawrence, Kansas. They offer a range of wines and can accommodate large groups by appointment.
In addition to tastings, the facility includes a lovely patio where you can relax and take in the beautiful scenery. The venue provides a perfect spot for sampling their exquisite selection of wines, which are crafted with great care.
Crescent Moon Winery also features vineyard tours, allowing guests to stroll through magnificent vineyards and learn about the winemaking process. It’s a great way to appreciate how much effort goes into every bottle.
For more detailed information or to plan your visit, check out their Yelp page or the official winery website. This makes Crescent Moon Winery a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Kansas vineyards.
10) River Valley Vineyard
River Valley Vineyard is known for its scenic beauty and high-quality wines. Nestled in a picturesque location, it offers visitors a peaceful escape from daily life.
Their award-winning wines attract wine lovers from all over. The vineyard specializes in both red and white varieties, each crafted with care and attention to detail.
Guests often enjoy the well-organized tasting sessions. Knowledgeable staff guide visitors through the different flavors and aromas, creating a memorable experience.
Many people also take advantage of the vineyard tours, which offer a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process. The tours are both educational and entertaining.
River Valley Vineyard also hosts seasonal events, including live music nights and food pairings. These events provide a great way to relax and enjoy delicious food and wine.
Families and couples alike will find this vineyard to be a delightful destination. With its friendly atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, River Valley Vineyard is a perfect spot for both relaxation and learning.
History Of Kansas Vineyards
Kansas vineyards have a rich history that showcases both early influences from European settlers and modern developments that have transformed the state’s winemaking industry. From German immigrants bringing grape culture to the rise of farm wineries, the journey is fascinating.
Early Beginnings
In the mid-19th century, German immigrants arrived in Kansas with a strong tradition of grape cultivation. Settling mainly in eastern Kansas by the Missouri River, they laid the foundation for winemaking in the state. By the 1870s, the Kansas-Missouri area was recognized for its grape production.
These early vineyards focused on Native American grape varieties and European hybrids. This mix included grapes like Cynthiana and Seyval. Early winemakers aimed to blend local suitability with European wine traditions.
Prohibition in the early 20th century severely impacted the winemaking industry, causing many vineyards to close. It wasn’t until decades later that Kansas began to see a resurgence in viticulture.
Modern Developments
Modern developments in Kansas vineyards began in earnest with the passing of the Farm Winery Act in 1985. This legislation set guidelines and provided incentives for new wineries. By 2005, Kansas had 13 licensed farm wineries, producing around 50,000 gallons of wine annually.
The number grew significantly. By 2010, there were 23 licensed farm wineries across the state, spanning 21 counties. Today, Kansas vineyards produce a variety of wines, including award-winning selections. Holy-Field Winery, opened in 1994, stands as one of the state’s oldest operational wineries.
Kansas modern vineyards often use a mix of Native American and French hybrid grapes, focusing on quality and innovation. This blend of tradition and progress keeps the state’s winemaking scene diverse and interesting.
For more detailed history, visit Kansas Viticulture & Farm Winery Association.
Wine Varietals In Kansas
Kansas is home to a diverse range of wine varietals, thanks to its unique climate and rich soil. This variety includes native, hybrid, and popular wines, each offering unique flavors and characteristics.
Native Grapes
Native grapes play a significant role in Kansas wineries. One of the most notable is the Vitis labrusca, commonly known as Concord. This grape is known for its sweet, fruity flavor, making it popular in juice and wine production.
The Norton grape, another native, is highly regarded for its deep, rich flavors and is often used in robust red wines. Norton wines are cherished for their dark berry notes and full-bodied taste.
Using these native grapes, Kansas wineries produce wines that reflect the region’s natural bounty and characteristics.
Hybrid Grapes
Hybrid grapes are essential to Kansas winemaking. These grapes are crossbred to combine the best traits of different species. The Chambourcin grape, for example, is a French-American hybrid known for its vibrant red color and raspberry notes.
Another popular hybrid is the Vidal Blanc, often used to create delectable white wines with hints of citrus and floral aromas. The Seyval Blanc grape, known for its citrus and green apple flavors, thrives in Kansas’s climate.
These hybrids are crucial for producing wines that can withstand Kansas’s weather conditions while offering diverse and complex flavors.
Popular Wines
Kansas wineries offer a range of popular wines that appeal to various tastes. Red wines, often made from Norton and Chambourcin grapes, are known for their richness and depth. These wines are perfect for those who enjoy bold and robust flavors.
White wines like Vidal Blanc and Seyval Blanc are celebrated for their crispness and refreshing quality. They often feature bright citrus notes, making them a favorite for summer sipping.
Kansas also produces delightful fruit wines, using locally grown fruits such as blackberries, peaches, and apples. These wines are typically sweeter and can be enjoyed as dessert wines or on their own.
Kansas’s diverse wine offerings reflect its unique terroir and winemaking traditions, providing something for every wine enthusiast.
Visiting Vineyards In Kansas
Kansas offers a unique experience for wine enthusiasts, from diverse tasting options to informative tours. Discover what makes these vineyards special and what you can expect during your visit.
Tasting Experiences
Kansas vineyards provide a range of tasting experiences for every palate. Many wineries let visitors sample local varieties, including sweet whites, robust reds, and unique fruit wines.
Some vineyards offer seasonal tastings, allowing you to try wines that reflect the harvest time. For those looking to enjoy more than the wine, locations often pair tastings with local cheeses, chocolates, or even live music events.
A few wineries also provide wine flights. These are curated selections that give a comprehensive sampling of what the winery offers. Always ask about their signature wines for a taste of what they’re most proud of.
Tour Availability
Tours at Kansas vineyards are both educational and enjoyable. They often include a walk through the vineyards, an exploration of the winemaking process, and a peek into the aging cellars.
Guided tours usually share insights into the history of the vineyard, the growing conditions of Kansas, and unique cultivation techniques. Some vineyards allow guests to book private tours for a more personalized experience.
To make the most of your visit, check the vineyard’s website for tour schedules. Some locations even offer behind-the-scenes tours that delve deeper into the intricacies of winemaking.
Whether you’re a casual visitor or a wine connoisseur, Kansas vineyards provide both engaging and informative tours that cater to all levels of interest.
