Win a Wine Getaway, Taste the Trends, and Celebrate with the Makers
Love is in the air (and in the glass) this month! Whether you’re planning a romantic Valentine’s escape, looking for the perfect chocolate pairing, or just want to support your favorite local makers during the snowy season, we have everything you need to know right here.
Win the Ultimate Romantic Escape
Don't miss your chance to whisk your sweetheart away for a dream weekend. We are giving away a FREE two-night stay and an exclusive tasting for two in the heart of Iowa’s wine country!
One lucky winner will get to choose their destination from three stunning locations:
Wide River Winery – Clinton
Wide River Winery – LeClaire
Wooden Wheel Winery – Keota
How to Enter: Click here to enter!
Deadline: 11:59pm CST on February 8, 2026
Winner Announced: Tuesday, February 10, 2026 (just in time for Valentine's Day!)
Note: Your stay must be booked by April 1, 2026.
Winery Spotlight: Soldier Creek Winery
This month, we are highlighting the flavors and faces of Soldier Creek Winery in Fort Dodge. If you are looking for a unique treat this February, they have you covered.
🍷 Wine + Chocolate Pairing
Looking for a trendy twist? We recommend trying their Fortissimo fortified red wine paired with the newest sensation: Dubai Chocolate! If your palate prefers something a little more dry, try a classic dark chocolate with their Frontenac.
💖 Romantic Wine Picks
Need a bottle for date night? Paragon Pink is always a winner—it’s delicious, refreshing, and best of all... it's pink!
🚜 The People Behind the Bottle
Soldier Creek is a true family affair. The vineyards lie on the Secor family farm, which has been in operation for over 50 years. After a barn fire in 2002, the family decided to turn tragedy into opportunity by diversifying with cold-hardy grapevines.
What started as a planting project in 2007 grew into a full winery by 2012, bringing the whole family back together. Today, Bill and Tammi tend the vines with their crew, while the next generation runs the show: Anne produces the wines, Amanda manages the bar and events, and Megan handles marketing. We are proud to say that the day-to-day activities at Soldier Creek are largely women-run!
You’re Invited: Iowa Wine Awards Social
Each year, the Iowa Wine Growers Association brings together grape growers, winemakers, and industry partners for our annual conference to connect, learn, and celebrate the year's hard work. While the conference is a time for industry growth, we want YOU to join in on the celebration!
We are opening the doors to the public for our Iowa Wine Awards Social. Come mingle with the growers and vintners who pour their passion into every bottle and raise a glass to the best of the best.
When: Monday, March 23, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Oscar Carl Vineyard, Sioux City
Tickets: $50
Your ticket includes a delicious meal, Iowa wine, access to the industry awards ceremony, and plenty of fun. Get your tickets here!
Winter Support For Iowa Wineries: Shop Local
When the snow falls, small businesses often feel the chill the most. It is important to remember that our Iowa wineries are more than just weekend destinations—they are local farms and family-owned businesses that rely on your support year-round.
Even though the vines are dormant outside, the work inside never stops. Wineries are busy caring for the vineyards to ensure a good harvest, handling bottling and cellar work, planning new releases, and supporting their year-round employees.
How You Can Support Local Business:
Every time you choose an Iowa wine, you are keeping dollars in your community. Here is how you can help these local businesses thrive this winter:
Visit tasting rooms during their winter hours.
Purchase wine directly from the winery to take home.
Buy gift cards or wine club memberships (these make incredible gifts!).
Attend winter events or tastings to beat the cabin fever.
Share your winery visits on social media—word of mouth is the best advertising for small businesses!
Cheers to a wine-filled winter! 🍷