Raise a Glass to Autumn: Discover the Best Iowa Wineries to Toast the Season

Photo Courtesy Park Farm Winery Facebook

Looking to raise a glass and toast the arrival of autumn? Look no further than the beautiful state of Iowa, which is home to over 100 wineries.

Take a journey through the picturesque landscapes of Iowa, where rolling hills and vineyards await. Explore the vibrant colors of fall as you sip on wines crafted locally with passion and precision. 

From the lush fields of Cedar Ridge Winery to the charming ambiance of the Tabor Home Vineyards and Winery, there is a winery to suit every palate and preference. Whether you prefer dry reds or crisp whites, Iowa wineries offer an impressive selection that will leave wine connoisseurs delighted. 

Gather your friends, pack your picnic baskets, and embark on a wine-tasting adventure that will indulge your senses and create lasting memories. Iowa's wineries are ready to welcome you with open arms and a glass of their finest vintage. Cheers to autumn and Iowa wine!

The beauty of Iowa's autumn season

The crisp autumn air and the warm sun make for a perfect climate to explore Iowa's wineries. The views are stunning, and the ambiance is serene, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some delicious wines. Iowa's wineries are spread across the state, and each location offers a unique experience. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a fun day out with friends, Iowa's wineries have something for everyone.

Visit Iowa Wine country

Planning a winery visit can be overwhelming, but with the right preparation and tools, it can be a breeze. Iowa is home to over 100 wineries, and each one offers a unique experience. Which one will be your favorite? Ready to plan your next trip? Keep reading for our top Iowa Wine trip ideas.

Iowa's wineries are bustling with activity during this time, and you can see firsthand how the grapes are transformed into exquisite wines. Many wineries host fall events, harvest festivals, and wine pairing dinners. These events are fun and offer a unique experience that you won't find anywhere else.

If you want to view Iowa's fall colors, why not do it with a glass of wine in hand? Plan your weekend trip to one of these wineries with great fall views.

Iowa Wine Map

This map shows all 100+ Iowa wineries. Zoom in to your area and visit a new winery today!

Iowa Activity Bingo

Use the Iowa Activity Bingo card to experience a whole month of fun! Find a perfect pumpkin, take a trail hike and visit an Iowa winery.

Join the FREE Iowa Wine & Beer Passport program

Your thirst for adventure starts here with the FREE Iowa Wine and Beer Passports. Track your progress with these personalized passports and support locally owned wineries and breweries.

To sweeten the deal, the Iowa Wine & Beer Promotion Board is offering free t-shirts to the first 400 participants per passport that check-in at six participating wineries or breweries!

It’s free to sign up and the more wineries and breweries you visit, the more chances for prizes! For more details on the Iowa Wine and Beer Passports click here to see what’s included!

Build your own Trip

Want to plan an entire weekend? Type in your starting location and your destination – and Travel Iowa will show you the attractions, restaurants, shops and museums along the way. Use the filters to adjust your trip and add attractions you're interested in to your road trip. Build your own trip now: https://www.traveliowa.com/routemap/ 

Wine tasting experiences and events

Wine tasting is a fun and educational experience, and many wineries in Iowa offer tastings that are tailored to your preferences. You can taste a variety of wines and learn about the flavors and aromas that make each one unique. Some wineries, like Tassel Ridge Winery, also offer food pairings that complement the wines, making for a delicious experience.

Did you know October is National Cider Month? 

Some Iowa wineries, like Jasper Winery, also make cider! Every weekend in October you can enjoy the ultimate fall pairing: Hard Cider and donuts. 

Exploring Iowa's wine trails

Iowa Wine is home to eight wine trails and are a great way to explore the state's wineries and vineyards. The wine trails are organized by region and offer a variety of experiences. You can taste wines, learn about the winemaking process, and explore the beautiful landscapes of Iowa. 

Go to the Drink Iowa Wine website and see which wine trail will make up the perfect wine weekend. 

Supporting local wineries and the community

Visiting local wineries is not only a fun experience, but it also helps support the local community. Many wineries in Iowa are family-owned, and your visit helps contribute to their livelihood. You'll also get to taste wines that are made with locally grown grapes, which makes the experience even more special.

Cheers to Iowa!

We want to see your Iowa Wine experience this autumn! Tag your photos of your favorite fall Iowa Wine memories with @iawine on Facebook and Instagram and use the hashtag #iowawine. 

From the stunning landscapes to the delicious wines, Iowa's wineries have something for everyone. So, gather your friends, pack your picnic baskets, and embark on a wine-tasting adventure that will indulge your senses and create lasting memories. Cheers to autumn and the exquisite Iowa wines that accompany it!

Christie JensenComment