Wine tours in South Dakota offer a unique way to explore the state’s budding wine industry. From small family-owned vineyards to larger wineries, there’s a diverse range of options to choose from.
These tours provide a chance to taste local flavors and learn about winemaking in the region.
You can discover South Dakota’s wine country through guided tours or self-guided visits to different wineries. Many places offer tastings, allowing you to sample various wines made from locally grown grapes and other fruits.
Some wineries also provide tours of their facilities, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process.
1) Sanford Winery Tour
You can enjoy a unique wine experience at Sanford Winery in California. The winery offers tours on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm.
Your journey will last 90 minutes and take you through the historic Rinconada and Sanford & Benedict vineyards. You’ll get to see where the grapes are grown and learn about the winemaking process.
The tour costs $150 per person. If you’re a Wine Club Member, you’ll get a discount and pay only $105. This price includes wine tastings during your visit.
You need to book ahead for these tours. It’s best to call the winery at (805) 735-5900 to check if they have space. They might also offer tours on other days if you ask.
During your visit, you’ll taste different wines made at Sanford. This gives you a chance to find your favorites and learn about wine flavors. The staff can answer your questions about the wines and how they’re made.
2) Viking Susan Vineyards
Viking Susan Vineyards offers you a unique wine tasting experience in South Dakota. Located in the scenic Black Hills, this family-owned winery welcomes you with open arms.
As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by rows of lush grapevines stretching across the rolling hills. The vineyard’s rustic charm instantly sets the mood for your wine adventure.
Viking Susan specializes in crafting wines from cold-hardy grapes that thrive in South Dakota’s climate. You can sample a variety of reds, whites, and fruit wines, each with its own distinct character.
During your visit, you can take a guided tour of the vineyard and winery. You’ll learn about the winemaking process from grape to glass, gaining insight into the challenges and rewards of producing wine in this region.
The tasting room offers you a cozy spot to savor your wine selections. You can pair your drinks with local cheeses and crackers for a complete tasting experience.
Don’t forget to check out the gift shop before you leave. You can pick up a bottle of your favorite wine to enjoy at home, along with unique wine-related souvenirs.
3) Tucker’s Walk Vineyard Experience
You’ll find Tucker’s Walk Vineyard & Farm Winery just northeast of Sioux Falls. This charming winery offers a unique tasting experience in South Dakota’s wine country.
The vineyard grows cold-hardy grapes like Marquette, Brianna, and St. Croix. They also use local fruits such as raspberries, rhubarb, and wild plums in their wines.
When you visit, you can enjoy the new tasting room perched on a hill. It provides a beautiful view of the surrounding vineyard.
The winery is open Friday through Sunday. You can sample their award-winning wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Tucker’s Walk is named after a special Afghan Hound. The dog taught the owners to appreciate the beauty of their farm during daily walks.
You might be surprised by the unique flavors in their wines. Each sip offers a taste of South Dakota’s terroir.
Remember to check their Facebook page for current hours and special events. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy locally-made wines with friends.
4) Redstone Wine Bar Tasting
You’ll find a unique wine experience at Redstone Wine Bar in Hill City, South Dakota. This cozy spot offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for sipping and socializing.
Redstone features a variety of locally produced wines from the Black Hills region. You can choose from reds, whites, and fruit wines to suit your taste preferences.
The knowledgeable staff will guide you through your tasting, explaining the characteristics of each wine. They’re happy to answer questions and help you find your new favorite.
For a more in-depth experience, you can join a guided tasting session. These sessions provide insights into the winemaking process and the unique qualities of South Dakota wines.
Redstone also offers light snacks to complement your wine selections. You can enjoy cheese plates or other small bites while you taste.
The wine bar’s rustic decor creates a welcoming ambiance. You’ll feel right at home as you sample the local flavors and chat with fellow wine enthusiasts.
Don’t forget to pick up a bottle of your favorite wine to take home. It’s a great way to remember your South Dakota wine adventure.
5) Prairie Berry Winery Escape
Your wine tour in South Dakota wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Prairie Berry Winery. Located in the beautiful Black Hills, this family-owned winery offers a unique escape for wine lovers.
You’ll get to taste award-winning wines handcrafted on-site. The winery’s creations have earned over 1,000 international awards, a testament to their quality and flavor.
Red Ass Rhubarb is their most popular wine. You’ll also find other interesting varieties like wines made from South Dakota pumpkins and cranberries.
During your visit, you can enjoy a tasting flight of their diverse wine selection. The knowledgeable staff will guide you through each wine’s unique characteristics.
Prairie Berry Winery offers more than just wine. You can pair your drinks with delicious food from their kitchen. The menu features local ingredients and complements their wines perfectly.
Don’t forget to take home a bottle or two of your favorite wines. It’s a great way to remember your South Dakota wine tour experience.
The winery’s picturesque setting adds to the charm of your visit. You’ll be surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Black Hills while sipping on excellent wines.
The History of Wine in South Dakota
Wine production in South Dakota has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s. The state’s unique climate and soil conditions have shaped its wine industry over time.
Early Vineyards and Pioneers
French fur traders introduced grapevines to South Dakota in the early 1800s. These early plantings laid the foundation for future wine production in the state.
Native American tribes also played a role in early winemaking. They used wild grapes to make beverages and medicines.
In the late 1800s, European immigrants brought their winemaking skills to South Dakota. They planted vineyards and started small-scale wine production.
The state’s harsh winters and short growing seasons posed challenges. Early pioneers had to develop cold-hardy grape varieties to survive the climate.
Development of Wine Culture
South Dakota’s modern wine industry began to take shape in the 1990s. Commercial winemaking became a reality during this time.
The first commercial winery opened in 1996. This marked a turning point for the state’s wine culture.
In 1997, Wilde Prairie Winery planted its first vines. They focused on using South Dakota-grown fruit and honey in their wines.
The South Dakota Specialty Producers Association formed in 2004. This group supports and promotes the state’s wine industry.
Today, South Dakota has over 20 wineries. Many offer tastings and tours, allowing you to experience the state’s wine culture firsthand.
Unique South Dakota Wine Varieties
South Dakota wineries offer special wines made from grapes that can handle cold winters. They also use local fruits to make unique flavors you won’t find anywhere else.
Cold-Hardy Grape Varieties
South Dakota’s harsh winters need tough grapes. Frontenac and Marquette grapes grow well here. They make red wines with cherry and black currant flavors.
La Crescent is a white grape variety that does great in South Dakota. It makes crisp wines that taste like apricot and citrus.
Brianna is another cold-hardy white grape. It gives wines pineapple and tropical fruit notes. These grapes let South Dakota make wines even when it’s very cold.
Distinctive Local Flavors
South Dakota wineries don’t just use grapes. They also make wines from other fruits. Rhubarb, plums, and cherries grown in the state become tasty wines.
You can try blackberry wine with deep, rich flavors. Honey wine, called mead, is popular too. It’s sweet and smooth.
Some places make chokecherry wine. This tart fruit makes a unique South Dakota drink. Buffalo berries are another local fruit used in wine. They give a bright, tangy taste you can only get here.
