Savoring Summer: July in Iowa Wine Country
July in Iowa is a vibrant tapestry of green fields, warm sunshine, and the promise of a bountiful harvest. For wine enthusiasts, it's a perfect time to explore the state's blossoming wine scene, especially with exciting events on the horizon!
A Taste of the Farm at Walker Homestead
If you're seeking a truly immersive agricultural and culinary experience, look no further than Walker Homestead Farm and Winery just outside Iowa City. Nestled on 85 picturesque acres, this thriving farm, established in 2020, offers a unique blend of sustainable farming, agritourism, and culinary delight. With lush gardens, flourishing orchards, a vineyard, cropland, and pasture, every element is cultivated with care for the environment and a passion for connecting with the land.
Walker Homestead's philosophy centers on "Building Community through Agricultural Education & Culinary Celebration." This is beautifully exemplified in their Farmer's Table Season Series, a monthly dinner highlighting the freshest ingredients from their gardens. Mark your calendars for upcoming dates: August 6, September 10, October 8, and November 12. Reservations for these highly anticipated dinners can be made online or by calling (319) 351-4791.
What truly sets Walker Homestead apart is their unique approach to dining. Their Eatery is currently open to the public on Thursdays from 5–9 PM. The menu is ever-evolving, sometimes even weekly, ensuring that every dish showcases the freshest offerings from the farm. A delightful addition to their menu is the option for U-Pick Flowers, allowing you to take a piece of their beautiful farm home with you. While reservations aren't strictly required for Thursday evenings, they are recommended!
Exciting news for wine lovers: Walker Homestead is diligently working on building a new tasting room this fall, which will allow them to offer consistent weekend hours year-round! And for those special occasions, remember that Walker Homestead loves hosting private events, providing a stunning backdrop and delicious, farm-fresh cuisine.
Iowa Wine Takes Center Stage at the Iowa State Fair!
As July winds down, the anticipation for the Iowa State Fair builds, and Iowa wines are ready to shine! From August 7th-17th, prepare for an unparalleled wine experience that highlights the best of the state's vineyards.
On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, from 1-2 PM, join Choose Iowa for "Bread, Cheese and Iowa Wine," an afternoon of sampling some of Iowa's finest wines, cheeses, and breads. This special presentation, featuring Cassie Bott with Fireside Winery, Ackerman Winery, and FireCiders, is included with your State Fair admission. You can find "The Kitchen" between the DNR Building and Barksdale's Cookie Stand on Grand Avenue, where Choose Iowa will host daily presentations at 1 PM throughout the fair, showcasing Iowa producers and chefs.
But the wine festivities don't stop there! The Iowa Wine Experience, running August 7th-17th, is your chance to sample a vast array of Iowa wines.
What's on Tap at the Iowa Wine Experience?
25 Wines, Endless Flavor: Explore a diverse selection of wines from Iowa wineries, ranging from crisp dry whites to robust reds and delightful sweet treats. You'll also have the opportunity to taste award-winning wines from the Iowa Commercial Wine Competition!
Wine by the Glass & Refreshing Sips: Enjoy wine by the glass for a relaxed experience, cool off with a refreshing wine slushie, or discover the crisp taste of Iowa hard cider.
Sample Smart, Save More: Purchase tickets for tastings or full glasses. Samples are just $3 each (with a minimum of 3), while a full glass is $9. For the best value, snag a $30 package that lets you mix and match glasses and samples for maximum savings.
Ready to raise a glass to your favorite music?
The Iowa State Fair Grandstand boasts an incredible lineup of headliners, including Lynyrd Skynyrd, Pitbull, Rascal Flatts, Def Leppard, Hank Williams, Jr., Forrest Frank, Parker McCollum, Megan Moroney, and more! Join us before the concert for a refreshing glass of Iowa wine!
Don't miss your chance to experience the best of Iowa wines at the State Fair. Gather your friends, family, or fellow wine enthusiasts and get ready for a delicious, fun-filled adventure! For full Iowa State Fair information, be sure to visit their website.
This July, embrace the flavors of Iowa. Whether you're exploring the sustainable practices and culinary delights of Walker Homestead or toasting to summer at the Iowa State Fair, there's an unforgettable wine experience waiting for you!