South Dakota is rightfully famous for Mount Rushmore and the stunning Badlands, but did you know that it has also made a significant contribution to the wine industry?
South Dakota features 15 wineries, all of which are must-sees for wine enthusiasts traveling across the United States.
In this article, we will explore some of the most popular wine tasting in South Dakota so that you may choose a few to visit on your next trip to this wonderfully wine-friendly state.
South Dakota Vineyards and Wineries
South Dakota vineyards and wineries are well-known throughout the state and are gaining international acclaim for being family-owned businesses that are mindful of the environment.
They are getting known for developing distinctive wines using locally sourced ingredients.
This inconspicuous state may surprise you with a superb selection of wines ranging from experimental fruit combinations to mouth-watering wines created from Franco-American grapes designed to withstand freezing temperatures.
Where to Go For Wine Tasting in South Dakota
Prairie Berry Winery
This family-run winery – Prairie Berry Winery, is the largest in South Dakota and has a long-standing winemaking history.
The winery is devoted to sustainably making wine, picking grapes by hand, and cultivating the fruit in the wild without the use of irrigation or fertilizers. The winery’s open-plan structure is composed entirely of recyclable materials.
Wine tastings at Prairie Berry Winery are available by reservation or in-person on a first come first serve basis. You will be able to try five different wines for free, including their most famous bottle, “Red Ass Rhubarb.”
A comprehensive seasonal menu is also available, with gluten-free, vegetarian, and kid-friendly options. Enjoy this diverse wine selection while admiring the spectacular view of Black Elk Peak from the outdoor patio.
This gorgeous venue can hold up to 150 people and provides food catering with a range of menu options for weddings and corporate parties. Prairie Berry Winery is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. so be sure to check it out on your next trip to South Dakota.
Wilde Prairie Winery
Jeff and Victoria at Wild Prairie Winery, have been making wine for the past 25 years with the support of their family and friends. The family is well-known for making sweet wines from locally grown fruit and honey in an environmentally mindful manner.
Some of the most popular wines produced here are Honey Raspberry, Rhubarb Strawberry, and Plum. When you try them, you’ll wonder why you’ve never tasted their wine before when the notes are this exquisite.
One of our top recommendations would be the American Frontenac. This off-dry red wine complements meat impeccably. The best part is, if you’re looking to host a birthday party here, they provide a tasting space large enough to accommodate people.
Wilde Prairie Winery is open for walk-in, first come first serve, from 12 to 6 pm on Thursdays through Mondays, except for December and April, when appointments are required.
During the summer, the vineyard also holds exciting Saturday markets and live music events, so if you can spare some time on a Saturday morning, we guarantee you’ll have a fantastic time with some great wine!
Humble Hill Winery
Humble Hill Winery is one of the best wineries around Sioux Falls. At this modest family-owned agricultural vineyard and winery, you can expect to sample a range of fruit and grape wines. We strongly suggest you taste their most popular wine, “Brianna.”
It’s a moderately grape wine with citrus, mango, and pineapple aroma. Or our personal favorite, the La Crosse – A semi-sweet white wine with notes of citrus and tropical fruits.
The great majority of the wines offered at Humble Hill Winery are available depending on the growing season of the fruits, so call and check with the winery to see what they have available to try in the season that you’re visiting.
This vineyard, located on a low hill, is easily accessible if you are returning from outdoor activities in Garretson, such as admiring the magnificent pink quartzite outcrops nearby.
Tucker’s Walk Vineyard
South Dakota’s 15th winery, which received its federal license as a bonded winery in 2010, was named after Dave and Sue Greenlee’s’ Afghan Hound, who passed away in 2006.
Tucker’s Walk Vineyard has grown to a 13-acre winery recognized for its hardy cold-weather grapes and innovative fruit combinations.
If you’re on the hunt in South Dakota for wine tasting, Tucker’s Walk Vineyard, located 20 minutes east of Strawbale, features a wine tasting room available on Saturdays from 12-8 pm or by appointment only.
The pair also offers vineyard tours, and individuals from all around South Dakota are welcome to participate in the winery’s annual fall harvest, making it an enjoyable event for all.
Tuckers’ favorite selection is their Marquette, which has great cherry and spice undertones and works incredibly well with steak or barbecued anything!
Belle Joli Winery
The Jackson family, owners of the Belle Joli Winery believe that wine and the winemaking process are inextricably linked to the heart of the land and serve to celebrate nature’s beauty and majesty.
They don’t settle for anything less! Today, the Jackson family’s dream of establishing a Black Hills vineyard that produces award-winning wines produced, harvested, and bottled in western South Dakota has come true.
This winery, as the name implies, produces sparkling wines using the classic champagne process along with a great selection of red, white, and dessert wines.
You must try their award-winning Brut Rose sparkling wine or their ever-popular Unoaked Chardonnay.
If you’re looking for good wine along with glorious views, visit Belle Joli and enjoy the scenery from the patio at the winery’s Deadwood tasting area while slowly inhaling the scent and flavor of the Black Hills encapsulated in their delectable wines. It’s difficult to top this experience in our opinion!
Try the South Dakota Wineries!
The South Dakota landscape provides a beautiful location for this burgeoning winemaking community, thanks to its fertile soil, wide rivers, and rolling hills.
You will be able to drink your wine guilt-free since South Dakota vineyards place a major emphasis on local production and sustainability.
Luckily, South Dakota vineyards and wineries provide something for everyone, from rustic to exquisite. Whether you take a tour of all the nearby wineries or spend a Saturday visiting a single winery, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to relax, sip on good wine, and unwind.
The Bottom Line
Whatever region of the state you’re visiting, the next time you visit Mount Rushmore, you should stop at a South Dakota vineyard for a glass of red, white, fruit, or sparkling wine!
You won’t be disappointed; we’re sure you’ll come back for more!
