I'll admit it. I love wine, and incidentally, wineries too.

Now, I know we are no California when it comes to wineries, but Minnesota does hold its own when it comes to beautiful outdoor vineyards, and according to Minnesota's Best Magazine, one of the state's best wineries is only 45 minutes away from Owatonna.

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Chankaska Creek Ranch, Winery, and Distillery in Kasota is 2021's silver medal winner in the Minnesota's Best winery category. 

I can attest to this winery's greatness. When I was in school at Mankato State, my roommates and I would often treat ourselves to a night at Chankaska. We particularly liked the 'Petite Colline' and 'La Crescent' wines.

(Did I mention their woodfire pizzas are to die for?)

However, perhaps our favorite part about this winery is the stunning grounds.

The trails are great for warmer days, and the cozy fire pits are perfect for cooler afternoons. Of course, the inside is also beautifully modern and comfortable.

In other words, if you haven't tried Chankaska, you ought to put it on your 2022 bucket list!

Perhaps you noticed that Chankaska took silver, which means one winery ranked above this Kasota gem. 

Carlos Creek Winery in Alexandria takes the gold this year.

According to Minnesota's Best, "Carlos Creek Winery has over 190 acres of wildflower fields, vineyard, and landscaped visitor experiences. They are not just a winery, but a brewery and wood-fired pizza kitchen. They have multiple outdoor patios along with their outdoor bar."

Now, I've never been before, but it sounds like Carlos Creek is also worth the trip.

Do you have a favorite Minnesota winery? Let us know in the comments below.

Enjoy wine at one of these 19 wineries near Rochester, Minnesota

Grab your girlfriends and head out for a weekend (or two) for the best summer adventure ever - winery tours! Ok, you don't have to take an actual tour of the winery. This is more of a sit-down and enjoy a glass of their homemade goodness with a few of your friends. Start your adventure by checking out a few of these places near Rochester, Minnesota.

 

 

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