A little while back, on the way to Pipestone, I was able to cross off the Crow River Winery and Vineyard from the #mnbucketlist. Outside the metro, Crow River is in Hutchinson, off Hwy 7 in the middle of the Crow River Watershed (hence the name). They have four vineyards Box Elder, Henry, Winter, and Crow River, growing cold climate grapes and hard neck garlic through sustainable agricultural practices and they also keep bees. Starting in 2004, its become the PERFECT place for weddings (which I got to see), anniversaries, parties – virtually any kind of event, you couldn’t do better than Crow River, no matter what the season.

Inside they have a long, beautiful bar where you can get a wine flight, order from their bistro or try out their olive oil bar (I know, right?). From the nicest, warm and welcoming staff to the very sweet puppy that roams the place, Crow River has become a very fast favorite of mine. They do have a wine club and also an online shop, if you are interested. You can try the Black ‘Sota Wine, named after the Dakota word Sotah, meaning “sky-colored,” strawberry wine, honey crisp apple and cranberry wine, pumpkin spice wine, apricot wine, but I admit, the rhubarb was Alyse and my favorite. You may not have heard of the Winery, but you may have seen the logo as their wine is sold all over the state.