Wyoming’s wine scene is growing. You might not think of this state for wine, but it has some hidden gems. Wine tours let you explore local flavors and see beautiful places.
You can find wineries across Wyoming that offer tours and tastings. These tours give you a chance to learn about winemaking and try new wines. You’ll get to see vineyards and talk to the people who make the wine. It’s a fun way to spend a day and learn something new.
1) Jackson Hole Winery
Jackson Hole Winery sits at an impressive 6,229 feet elevation. This unique location gives the winery a special advantage in crafting its wines.
Anthony Schroth founded the winery in 2009. He wanted to explore the benefits of high-altitude winemaking. Over the years, he has perfected his craft, producing award-winning wines in this challenging environment.
When you visit, you can enjoy wine tastings and tours to sample their current releases. You’ll get to try a variety of wines, including reds, whites, and specialty blends that reflect the unique terroir of the region.
The winery offers several popular varieties. You can taste their Rosé, Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon. They also produce a special Cabernet Franc/Syrah blend.
Jackson Hole Winery’s tasting room is open for visitors to experience their high-altitude wines. You can call ahead to book your tasting and learn more about their unique winemaking process.
2) Table Mountain Vineyards
Table Mountain Vineyards is Wyoming’s largest vineyard and winery. This gem is located in Huntley, about an hour north of Cheyenne.
Table Mountain Vineyards crafts 100% Wyoming-grown wines. They use “new world” grape varieties that thrive in Wyoming’s unique climate.
The winery sits on a ten-acre vineyard with stunning rural views. You can see the vineyard from the tasting room, adding to the experience.
Tastings and tours are available by appointment. Call 307-459-0233 to schedule your visit. It’s open year-round, so you can enjoy Wyoming wine any time.
Table Mountain offers a range of wines made from Wyoming fruits and grapes. Each sip captures the state’s character.
You can also host events at the winery. It’s a perfect spot for a Wyoming-themed celebration or gathering.
3) Buffalo Jump Winery
Buffalo Jump Winery offers a unique wine experience in Cody, Wyoming. You can visit this local gem Tuesday through Sunday from 1 PM to 8 PM for wine tastings and tours.
During your visit, you’ll get to explore the vineyards and cellars. The winery shows you how they produce, bottle, and store their wines before distribution.
Buffalo Jump prides itself on making high-quality wines. You can find their products in fine restaurants and local supermarkets around Brisbane.
The winery’s location in the heart of the Rocky Mountains adds to its charm. You’ll enjoy western hospitality right off the main street in downtown Cody.
If you’re feeling creative, Buffalo Jump even offers paint nights. It’s a fun way to spend an evening after exploring other Cody attractions like the Buffalo Bill Museum.
4) Ten Sleep Brewing Co.
Ten Sleep Brewing Company offers a unique beer experience in Wyoming. You’ll find this gem nestled at the base of Signal Cliff, just one mile west of Ten Sleep.
The brewery is housed in the Smith Family Barn, giving it a rustic charm. You can enjoy your beer while taking in beautiful views of the Big Horn Mountains.
Ten Sleep Brewing Co. is more than just a place to drink. You’ll find live music events, food trucks, and outdoor games to keep you entertained.
Their taproom is open several days a week. You can visit Wednesday through Sunday, with hours varying by day. It’s best to check their website for the most up-to-date schedule.
While touring Wyoming’s wine scene, this brewery offers a refreshing change of pace. You’ll get to taste locally crafted beers in a welcoming atmosphere.
5) Prairie Harvest
Prairie Harvest offers a unique wine tasting experience in Wyoming. You’ll find this hidden gem nestled in the rolling plains of the state.
The vineyard prides itself on using locally grown grapes. Their wines capture the essence of Wyoming’s rugged landscape and climate.
When you visit, you can enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard. You’ll learn about the challenges of growing grapes in Wyoming’s harsh environment.
The tasting room provides a cozy atmosphere to sample their wines. You can try crisp whites and bold reds that reflect the terroir of the region.
Prairie Harvest also offers food pairings with their wines. You’ll taste locally sourced cheeses and meats that complement the flavors of their wines.
During the harvest season, you can participate in grape picking. This hands-on experience gives you a deeper appreciation for the winemaking process.
The friendly staff will share stories about the vineyard’s history. You’ll gain insight into the passion and dedication required to produce wine in Wyoming.
Understanding Wine Tours in Wyoming
Wine tours in Wyoming offer a chance to taste unique local wines and learn about grape growing in a challenging climate. The state’s wineries showcase their ability to craft quality wines despite harsh conditions.
Unique Wine Varietals
Wyoming wineries grow cold-hardy grape varieties that can survive the state’s tough winters. You’ll find wines made from grapes like Frontenac, La Crescent, and Marquette. These grapes produce wines with distinctive flavors you may not have tried before.
Table Mountain Vineyards makes a red blend called Cowboy Reserve. They also offer a white blend named Cowgirl Blush. These wines highlight Wyoming’s ability to create its own wine styles.
Some wineries use local fruits like chokecherries to make fruit wines. This gives you a true taste of Wyoming in every sip.
Climate and Terroir Influence
Wyoming’s harsh climate shapes its wines. The short growing season and cold winters force grapes to ripen quickly. This creates wines with bright acidity and intense flavors.
The state’s high altitude adds another challenge. Grapes grown at higher elevations often have thicker skins. This can lead to wines with deeper colors and stronger tannins.
Wyoming’s soil varies across the state. This impacts the wine’s taste. You might notice mineral notes in wines from rocky areas. Sandy soils can produce lighter, more delicate wines.
Jackson Hole Winery uses the cool mountain climate to its advantage. They age their wines slowly at high altitude. This creates complex flavors you won’t find elsewhere.
Planning Your Wyoming Wine Adventure
Wyoming offers unique wine experiences in scenic settings. Careful planning helps you make the most of your trip to the state’s vineyards and wineries.
Best Times to Visit
Spring and fall are great seasons for Wyoming wine tours. The weather is mild, and vineyards are bustling with activity. Summer can be hot but offers long days for exploring. Winter visits let you enjoy cozy tasting rooms.
May to June is ideal for seeing vineyards in bloom. September to October gives you a chance to witness the harvest. Some wineries host special events during these peak times.
Weekends are busiest at most wineries. For a quieter experience, plan your visit on weekdays. Always check opening hours before you go, as they can vary by season.
Available Tour Options
Wyoming’s wine country offers several ways to explore. You can choose between self-guided tours or organized group excursions.
At Table Mountain Vineyards in Huntley, you can walk in for tastings. They also offer tours of their eco-friendly vineyard upon request.
Meanwhile, Jackson Hole Winery has a tasting room in downtown Jackson. It’s open year-round, making it easy to fit into your travel plans.
For a more structured experience, look into local tour companies. They often provide transportation between wineries, letting you relax and enjoy your tastings safely.
Consider booking a private tour for a personalized experience. This option lets you tailor the itinerary to your tastes and schedule.
